The Sidemen: YouTube Journey & Group History
The Sidemen are one of the most iconic and influential YouTube groups globally. What began as a group of friends playing FIFA has grown into a full-scale entertainment brand with millions of subscribers, global fans, and a thriving business empire.
Who Are the Sidemen?
The Sidemen are a group of seven British YouTubers who officially formed on October 19, 2013. Each member has a unique personality and a massive individual following. Together, they create content across several YouTube channels and business ventures.
- KSI (JJ Olatunji)
- Miniminter (Simon Minter)
- Zerkaa (Joshua Bradley)
- TBJZL (Tobi Brown)
- Behzinga (Ethan Payne)
- Vikkstar123 (Vikram Barn)
- W2S (Harry Lewis)
Timeline of the Sidemen’s YouTube Success
2013–2015: The Early Gaming Era
- Started as a FIFA and GTA V gaming group.
- Name “Sidemen” reflects being the support players — helping each other grow.
- Gained popularity for funny gameplay and commentary.
2016: Launch of the Sidemen Channel
- Launched the official Sidemen channel on May 14, 2016.
- Shifted to real-life challenges and group videos.
- Popular series include:
- Sidemen Sunday
- Tinder IRL
- $10 vs $10,000 Holidays
- Hide and Seek
2017: Viral Diss Track Drama
- Faked a group fallout where KSI “left” the Sidemen.
- Led to a wave of viral diss tracks and responses.
- Gained millions of views and new fans globally.
2018–2020: Growth and Branding
- Launched Sidemen Clothing and Side+ (premium content).
- Released “The Sidemen Show” via YouTube Originals.
- Upgraded content production and team infrastructure.
2021–Present: Mainstream and Business Expansion
Became one of the UK’s most influential digital brands. Hosted massive charity football matches (over £2 million raised). Launched SIDES, a fried chicken restaurant chain.
Sidemen YouTube Channels
| Channel | Description | Subscribers (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Sidemen | Main weekly content such as challenges, game shows, and “Sidemen Sundays.” This is the flagship channel of the group. | 22M+ |
| MoreSidemen | Extra content, behind-the-scenes videos, casual gameplay, and bonus challenges. | 10M+ |
| SidemenReacts | Reaction videos to viral content, memes, and trends, featuring group discussions and humor. | 8M+ |
| SidemenShorts | Short-form clips, highlights, and TikTok-style moments from their main content. | 5M+ |
| Side+ | Premium, subscription-based platform offering exclusive videos, early access, and community events. | Private (Members Only) |
Why Are the Sidemen So Popular?
- Genuine chemistry and friendship: They’ve been friends for over a decade, and their real-life bond translates on screen.
- Unique personalities: Each member has a distinct identity and fanbase, contributing to the group’s diversity.
- Consistency: Weekly “Sidemen Sunday” videos maintain audience engagement.
- High production value: Over time, their videos have evolved into full-scale productions rivaling TV shows.
- Fan engagement: Interactive content, live events, and social media presence keep fans connected.
- Smart branding: They’ve built a global empire by turning YouTube fame into long-term businesses and partnerships.
Sidemen Business Ventures
| Venture | Description |
|---|---|
| Sidemen Clothing | Premium streetwear and fan merchandise launched in 2014. Known for limited-edition drops and quality apparel. |
| SIDES | Fast-food fried chicken brand operating across the UK (both dine-in and delivery). Expanding rapidly into malls and retail chains. |
| Side+ | Subscription-based exclusive content platform for dedicated fans, offering behind-the-scenes access and perks. |
| XIX Vodka | A premium vodka brand launched to celebrate Sidemen’s 10th anniversary, sold online and in UK stores (e.g., Tesco). |
| Bright Side Charity | The Sidemen’s official charity organization, organizing the annual Charity Football Match that raises millions for good causes. |
| Sidemen Book | Sidemen: The Book (2016) — a bestseller that gives fans an inside look at their journey and humor. |
| Documentaries & Web Series | Includes The Sidemen Show (YouTube Premium, 2018) and The Sidemen Story (Netflix, 2024). Expands their reach beyond YouTube. |
Charity Matches & Public Events
Here’s a concise table summarizing the Sidemen Charity Matches (2016‑2025):
| NO. | Date | Stadium / Venue | Charities | Winner | Result / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 03 June 2016 | St. Mary’s Stadium | Saints Foundation | Sidemen FC | 7 – 2 |
| 2 | 21 May 2017 | The Valley | Charlton Athletic Community Trust & Childline | YouTube Allstars | 0 – 2 |
| 3 | 02 June 2018 | The Valley | Charlton Athletic Community Trust & YoungMinds | Sidemen FC | 7 – 1 |
| 4 | 24 September 2022 | The Valley | CALM, Teenage Cancer Trust, Rays of Sunshine, M7 Education | Sidemen FC | 8 – 7 |
| 5 | 09 September 2023 | London Stadium | CALM, Rays of Sunshine, Teenage Cancer Trust, M7 Education | Sidemen FC | 8 – 5 |
| 6 | 08 March 2025 | Wembley Stadium | BBC Children in Need, Bright Side, M7 Education | YouTube Allstars (won on penalties) | 9 – 9 (13–14 pens) |
Additional Notes / Highlights:
In 2025, the event sold out Wembley’s 90,000-seat capacity in just a few hours and raised over £4.7 million, with the match itself ending 9–9 and decided by a penalty shootout (YouTube Allstars won). The 2022 match holds a Guinness World Record for the highest live viewership for a charity sports match on YouTube. Over time, the event has grown enormously. By 2023, the match raised over £2.4 million.
Final Thoughts
From gaming videos to global recognition, the Sidemen have built a YouTube and business empire. Their story is one of innovation, humor, and staying true to their friendship — making them one of the most loved and respected creator groups in the world.