IShowSpeed Faces Lawsuit Over Destruction of Viral Robot Rizzbot

Popular streamer Darren “IShowSpeed” Watkins Jr. is being sued for allegedly destroying a famous humanoid robot. The incident occurred during a livestream in September at a Texas event. The robot’s creators claim the damage was intentional and costly.

IShowSpeed lawsuit

According to a petition filed in November, the streamer inflicted “irreparable damage” to the social media personality Rizzbot. The legal action seeks compensation for the total loss of the robot and significant lost revenue. TechCrunch first obtained details of the lawsuit.

Livestream Assault Led to Total Loss of Functionality

The lawsuit states that Speed repeatedly punched the Rizzbot in the face during the meet-up. He also put it in a chokehold, pinned it to a couch, and threw it to the ground. The entire altercation was broadcast live to his millions of followers.

According to the legal filing, this handling caused “complete loss of functionality.” The robot suffered significant damage to its mouth and neck. Its head cameras and sensor ports were rendered dead.

The Austin Police were called after the incident. A police report noted damages done without the owner’s consent. An investigation is reportedly ongoing.

Financial Fallout and Lost Opportunities for Rizzbot

The destruction caused a major financial setback. Rizzbot’s team claims they lost scheduled appearances on CBS’s The NFL Today and with Mr. Beast. Such opportunities are described as monumental for viral momentum.

Before the incident, Rizzbot generated over 800 million views monthly. In the 28 days after, viewership dropped by more than 70%. The robot could not create new content while being repaired.

Rizzbot’s lawyer told TechCrunch they are seeking accountability. Talks with Speed’s management over compensation allegedly stalled, leading to the lawsuit. The streamer’s team has not publicly commented.

The IShowSpeed lawsuit highlights the tangible value of digital influencers, even robotic ones. The case could set a new precedent for protecting costly social media assets from physical damage.

Dropping this nugget your way-

Q1: What is IShowSpeed being sued for?

He is being sued for allegedly destroying the humanoid influencer robot named Rizzbot during a livestream. The creators claim he punched, choked, and threw the robot, causing irreparable damage.

Q2: How much damage did Speed cause to the robot?

The petition states the robot suffered a “total loss.” Its mouth, neck, and head cameras were broken. It became unstable and could no longer walk straight, requiring a completely new body.

Q3: What financial impact did this have on Rizzbot?

Rizzbot lost high-profile deals with CBS and Mr. Beast. Its social media viewership dropped over 70% in the month after the incident because it could not create new content.

Q4: Is Rizzbot operational now?

Yes. Rizzbot informed TechCrunch it received a brand new body. It is now back online and working on new content and complex movements for future appearances.

Q5: Were the police involved?

Yes. The Austin Police were called and filed a report. The officer noted the damage was done without the owner’s consent, and the owner wished to press charges.