Jimmy Donaldson, known to his 316 million subscribers as MrBeast, is back in court as his legal war with hospitality mogul Robert Earl reaches a critical point. What began as a pandemic era partnership has turned into a bitter $100 million lawsuit, exposing cracks in the once promising MrBeast Burger empire.
This case is more than burgers. It is about brand control, broken promises, financial disputes, and whether MrBeast’s internet fame can withstand traditional business litigation.
The MrBeast Burger Origin Story
In 2020, Beast Industries partnered with Robert Earl’s Virtual Dining Concepts (VDC) to launch a virtual restaurant during the pandemic. The goal was simple. Leverage MrBeast’s fame to sell burgers nationwide through existing restaurant kitchens.
MrBeast Burger quickly exploded. By 2021, over 1,000 virtual locations were operating. By 2022, the brand reached 1,700 global locations, generating well over $100 million in revenue. Rapid growth came with a price.
Quality Control Catastrophe
Complaints poured in. Orders arrived with missing items, cold fries, undercooked meat, and unbranded or incorrect packaging. Over 50 percent of locations were rated under two stars, according to MrBeast’s lawsuit. MrBeast claims VDC ignored repeated complaints, focusing on expanding to other celebrity brands instead.
Financial Fallout
Despite the massive revenue, MrBeast alleges he received no royalties. VDC claims he attempted to renegotiate the contract multiple times and misused social media accounts to disparage the brand. Both sides are fighting over control, money, and public perception.
The $100 Million Counterattack
VDC’s countersuit accuses MrBeast of breaching the contract, disparaging the brand, interfering with business relationships, and using social media to undermine VDC. VDC asserts that most customer reviews were positive and that MrBeast’s claims about unpaid revenue are false.
Legal Teams and Court Developments
MrBeast is represented by Paul Hastings LLP. VDC is represented by Greenberg Traurig. In 2024 and 2025, courts dismissed several of VDC’s claims, but key breach-of-contract issues remain unresolved.
Broader Impact
Hundreds of restaurants partnered with VDC to serve MrBeast Burger. Some, like Red Robin, ceased participation due to the legal turmoil. Competitors and other celebrity virtual brands are watching closely as this case unfolds.
Other Legal Headaches
MrBeast faces additional lawsuits, including a trademark dispute with Dees Nuts LLC over his Feastables Inc. product line and a class action lawsuit from contestants on his $100 million reality show Beast Games.
The Bigger Picture
This legal battle highlights the risks creators face when partnering with traditional businesses. Protecting brand integrity, managing rapid expansion, and navigating contract disputes are all critical challenges. MrBeast versus Robert Earl is a cautionary tale for the creator economy and celebrity partnerships.
Bottom Line
The $100 million MrBeast Burger lawsuit is not just about burgers. It is about reputation, contracts, and the clash between internet fame and real-world business. As the court drama continues, both sides face high stakes. The outcome could redefine how influencer partnerships are structured.
