Twitch’s 1,000 Gifted Subs Feature Sparks Fury and Swift Removal

Twitch ignited a firestorm of controversy in late November 2025. The platform briefly introduced a feature allowing users to gift 1,000 subscriptions at once. It was removed within a day, leaving streamers and viewers in an uproar.

This move came alongside the permanent ban of celebrity streamer Ray J. Both events have raised serious questions about the platform’s direction and priorities.

Money-Making Move or Community Misstep?

Subscriptions are a primary income source for many streamers. The new gifting option promised a massive revenue boost. According to WIN.gg, the feature was seen as a significant monetization push.

But the backlash was immediate and fierce. Critics accused Twitch of being money-grabbing. They argued it encouraged impulsive spending and potential financial harm.

Popular streamer Ludwig Ahgren was a vocal critic. He suggested Twitch prioritizes profit over community welfare. An ex-employee on X claimed it was a ploy to hit year-end revenue targets.

Viewer Backlash and Rapid Reversal

Viewers expressed major concerns about the feature. They feared it would enable dangerous spending habits. The risk of costly chargebacks for creators was also a top worry.

Twitch removed the option just one day after its debut. The company gave no official explanation for its sudden reversal. This silence has fueled further speculation online.

Some analysts suggest a ongoing subscription discount played a role. The feature may have been less profitable for Twitch during the sale period. It is unclear if the option will return in the future.

Ray J’s Permanent Ban Adds to the Chaos

While the gifting debate raged, another crisis unfolded. Twitch permanently banned singer and reality star Ray J. His ban followed a dramatic Thanksgiving Day livestream.

According to Rolling Out, police arrested Ray J after a heated argument with his wife was broadcast. The situation escalated on camera, alarming viewers and prompting police intervention.

Ray J confirmed his permanent ban to his fans on social media. He stated they would never be able to return to the Twitch platform. The incident highlights the challenges of moderating live, unpredictable content.

Twitch’s Balancing Act: Revenue vs. Responsibility

These twin controversies put Twitch’s priorities under a microscope. Streamers are questioning if the platform supports their best interests. The quick feature rollout and removal shows a reactive approach.

The Ray J ban underscores the platform’s stance on serious misconduct. It also raises questions about consistent enforcement of its policies. Trust in the platform’s decision-making is being tested.

Everyday streamers now navigate this uncertain landscape. As covered by Massively OP, the community continues its creative broadcasts. But the underlying tension between profit and user safety remains unresolved.

Twitch’s recent struggles reveal a platform at a crossroads. The balance between innovation, revenue, and community trust has never been more delicate. These events will likely shape Twitch’s policies for years to come.

Dropping this nugget your way

What was the 1,000 gifted subs feature on Twitch?

It was a new option letting users buy 1,000 gift subscriptions in one transaction. The feature was aimed at boosting revenue for streamers and Twitch. It was live for less than a day before being removed.

Why did people criticize the gifted subs feature?

Critics said it encouraged reckless spending and potential debt. Streamers also feared massive chargebacks could hurt their income. Many viewed it as a pure money grab by Twitch.

Why was Ray J banned from Twitch?

Ray J was permanently banned after a livestreamed domestic dispute. The argument led to his arrest on Thanksgiving Day. Twitch prohibits content involving serious real-world violence.

Has Twitch explained these decisions?

No. Twitch has not issued any official statement on the gifted subs removal. The platform also has not publicly commented on the specifics of Ray J’s ban.

Could the 1,000 gifted subs feature return?

It is possible. Some speculate it was pulled due to a concurrent subscription discount. The feature might reappear after the promotional period ends.

How do these events affect average Twitch streamers?

They create uncertainty about the platform’s future direction. Streamers are concerned about how monetization changes impact their livelihoods. The focus on high-drama bans also shifts attention from everyday creators.