Darren Watkins Jr., widely recognized as “IShowSpeed,”is a YouTuber whose exuberant personality and spontaneous reactions have struck a chord with viewers around the globe. His streaming career kicked off in 2017, showcasing his energy through chaotic livestreams, primarily focused on popular games like FIFA and Fortnite. Additionally, IShowSpeed has garnered attention with his in-real-life (IRL) streams, where he explores different countries and interacts closely with his fanbase.
As reported by the Celebrity Net Worth website, IShowSpeed boasts a net worth estimated at $10 million. His ascent in the streaming world has been characterized by authentic content that frequently goes viral, amplifying his online presence.
Beyond gaming, Darren has ventured into music, releasing rap songs that have sparked interest. One notable track, “Dooty B*oty,”debuted on his YouTube channel in 2021 and gained significant traction, especially after it became a viral sensation on TikTok, leading to its inclusion in numerous videos across the platform.
The Journey of IShowSpeed’s Streaming Career
IShowSpeed established his YouTube account in 2016 but did not publish any videos until December 21, 2017. His inaugural upload showcased gameplay from NBA 2K18, featuring no commentary but with engaging background music. However, it was in 2021 that his channel truly exploded in popularity, propelled by his high-energy and often controversial antics.
Currently, his YouTube channel boasts an impressive following of over 38 million subscribers, with approximately 1,500 videos amassing a staggering total of nearly 4 billion views.
In addition to YouTube, IShowSpeed began his Twitch streaming journey in 2017 under the same username. By 2021, he reached the remarkable milestone of 100,000 followers on the platform. Despite facing several bans due to alleged violations of Twitch’s Terms of Service, these controversies only served to boost his visibility, and his follower count skyrocketed to 10 million by 2022.
One of his most unforgettable moments came during his exuberant engagement with Outfit7’s Talking Ben. This interaction quickly became a viral hit, further elevating his reputation on social media. Notably, his content featuring Talking Ben contributed to a resurgence in the character’s popularity, even securing the top position on the App Store in February 2022.
Watch IShowSpeed’s Viral Moments
IShowSpeed’s Tour of China in March 2025
In March 2025, Darren embarked on an exciting tour through China, immersing himself in diverse cultural experiences while captivating his audience with engaging livestreams. He visited several prominent cities, including Shanghai, Beijing, Zhengzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, and Changsha.
A major highlight of this tour was his collaboration with the eminent rapper and singer, Jackson Wang. In a memorable stunt, Speed showcased his athleticism with an impressive backflip at the Great Wall of China in Beijing. While in Zhengzhou, he delved into martial arts at the renowned Shaolin Temple, further thrilling his fans. His journey even earned him praise from his idol, Cristiano Ronaldo, who referred to it as an “amazing trip.”
Highlights from IShowSpeed’s China Tour
As IShowSpeed concludes his time in China, he has teased exciting plans for his next adventure, hinting at a tour in Japan.