🔊 Dhar Mann Studios Accused of Cultivating ‘Culture of Fear’

CREATOR ECONOMY NEWSLETTER


In this week’s highlighted story, we’re exploring viral protests which began in February 2023 against Dhar Mann Studios, a YouTube empire with over 17 million subscribers. 

In interviews with Passionfruit, four actors and creators who worked for the YouTube channel accused the company of not providing what they deem a fair wage; inadequate food and water on set; having 10-hour work days for child actors; conducting a “smear campaign” against them in the wake of their protests; and of perpetuating a “culture of fear” in the workplace that led to actors feeling silenced. A representative for Dhar Mann Studios also spoke with Passionfruit, vehemently denying all of these claims. 

What unfolded illuminates what can happen when a YouTuber transforms into a full-blown media company and the potential perils that follow.


THE DARK SIDE

Dhar Mann actors allege ‘culture of fear’ underpinning YouTube empire


Filming yourself has never been easier

Meet SwitchPod: the minimal, versatile handheld tripod. SwitchPod works with any camera, from a phone to a DSLR, and simplifies video making for creators. Lightweight and nearly indestructible, the mini tripod makes it easy to travel to awesome locations for the ultimate photo or video shoots.


ONE GREAT TIP


THE HIGHLIGHT

5 Women’s History TikTokers to follow this International Women’s Day

With hundreds of thousands of years worth of ground to cover, here are just a few of the creators bringing untold women’s histories to light.

By Eve Upton-Clark, Passionfruit Contributor


TIPS AND TRICKS

How a hobby turned into a career: TikTok chef Alejandra Tapia on her rapid rise as a food creator

Alejandra Tapia, also known as @nanajoe19, discusses how she gained and monetized her following on TikTok.

By Adrienne Hunter, Passionfruit Contributor


IN THE BIZ


TIKTOK MADE ME DO IT

Content for Creators.

News, tips, and tricks delivered to your inbox twice a week.

Newsletter Signup

Latest Newsletters

  • Who Puts Skibidi Toilet in Toy Aisles?

    Who Puts Skibidi Toilet in Toy Aisles?

    CREATOR NEWSLETTER Issue #320 | March 4, 2025 – Steven Asarch, Passionfruit Contributor PERSONALITIES Attacks on Amouranth and The Sis-A-Thon Raise Concerns About Safety For Female Creators A number of female streamers were in danger this weekend. By Charlotte Colombo, Passionfruit Contributor → READ THE FULL STORY SPONSORED Exclusive Invite: BBQ, Brunch & Brands GetResponse and TikTok LIVE Creator Networks are hosting…

  • You’re Invited To Our Party…

    You’re Invited To Our Party…

    CREATOR NEWSLETTER Issue #319 | Feb. 27, 2025 If you’ve spent time in hyper online corners of the internet lately, you’ve likely encountered the MD Foodie Boyz. They’re a group of middle schoolers who have a podcast where they rate and review food. The four boys started the podcast a few months ago on YouTube, but…

  • The Number of the MrBeast Sponsorship

    The Number of the MrBeast Sponsorship

    CREATOR NEWSLETTER Issue #318 | Feb. 25, 2025 In early 2024, MoneyLion’s marketing team members started chatting with MrBeast and his brand partnership team. MoneyLion lets users do mobile banking or take out personal loans directly from their app. They wanted to get involved in Jimmy Donaldson’s next venture, The Beast Games, the largest reality show…