Popular YouTuber Marques Brownlee, known as MKBHD, recently found himself at the center of controversy after sharing a video that featured him driving at 96 mph in a 35 mph zone. Brownlee, a tech reviewer with millions of followers, apologized on social media after the clip went viral, sparking heated discussions about the risks and ethics of such actions. The speeding incident appeared in a video titled How My Video Gear is Changing!, where Brownlee was testing a new DJI Osmo Action Camera 5 Pro in his Lamborghini.
In a since-deleted segment of the video, Marques Brownlee was captured driving 60 mph over the legal limit in an area identified as a children’s zone, an action that drew swift criticism from viewers and social media users alike. Screenshots of the video spread across platforms, with users expressing disappointment over the dangerous driving. Addressing the backlash, Brownlee took to X (formerly Twitter) to apologize, describing his actions as both “stupid” and “inexcusable.” In his statement, he said, “Last video I did something pretty stupid. You might’ve already seen it, but maybe not, so I’ll address it here. There was a clip with the action cam of me test driving a car and going way too fast. Absolutely inexcusable and dangerous.”
crazy how mkbhd pivoted to running over kids at 96mph in 35 zone (while also trying to cover it up) after failing to sell a wallpaper subscription pic.twitter.com/oiP9Iwl1bC
— wukko (@uwukko) November 12, 2024
Acknowledging the incident further, Brownlee confirmed he had removed the clip from the video, emphasizing that taking it down was “the right thing to do.” He admitted, however, that some might view the deletion as a cover-up but insisted his intention was to rectify the mistake. “I’ve since cut it out of the video with YouTube’s editor tool. I also understand that this looks like covering it up, but I think it’s the right thing to do,” he explained. Brownlee added that the clip served no purpose in the video, noting that it “shouldn’t have been included in the first place,” and clarified that he wasn’t trying to downplay the severity of speeding.
The response to Brownlee’s apology has been divided. While some have criticized him for blurring the speedometer before the clip’s removal, alleging it was an attempt to hide the speed from viewers, others have applauded his candor and willingness to acknowledge his mistake publicly. One user on X, SnazzyLabs, supported Brownlee’s response, commenting, “Lots of people will remain unhappy, but this is a good apology. You did a very dumb thing (we’ve all done something stupid before), you recognize it’s dumb, and you aim to be/do better. That’s way more than most people will do. Thanks for being straight up and addressing it.”
However, the incident adds to a recent pattern of controversies surrounding Marques Brownlee, including criticism over his $50 wallpaper application. Despite the backlash, Brownlee’s direct approach and prompt response have helped him maintain support from a portion of his audience, with some expressing appreciation for his transparency.
Last video I did something pretty stupid. You might’ve already seen it, but maybe not so I’ll address it here. There was a clip with the action cam of me test driving a car and going way to fast. Absolutely inexcusable and dangerous.
I’ve since cut it out of the video with…
— Marques Brownlee (@MKBHD) November 12, 2024
Marques Brownlee’s apology may serve as a lesson to others in the tech and creator community about the importance of responsibility, particularly when influential figures showcase risky behaviors. While his actions have stirred debate, his commitment to addressing the situation and taking corrective measures might help him regain the trust of those who were disappointed by the incident.
Shivam Kumar
Hi, I’m Shivam Kumar. I’m pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day….
