Popular tech YouTuber Marques Brownlee, also known as MKBHD, has issued a public apology after a recent controversy surrounding a video showing him driving at excessive speeds. The 30-year-old creator, known for his polished tech reviews and thoughtful takes on gadgets, faced backlash when fans noticed a segment in his latest video that reportedly captured him accelerating to over 90mph in a 35mph zone. The video, which has since been edited, originally showed Brownlee behind the wheel of a Lamborghini, rapidly accelerating from around 30mph to an alarming 95mph within just a few seconds. The clip reportedly included passing a sign warning drivers to slow down for children, making the act even more concerning.
In a statement posted on X, Brownlee didn’t mince words about the incident, describing his actions as “absolutely inexcusable and dangerous.” He shared that he quickly cut the clip from the video using YouTube’s editor tool, acknowledging that while some might interpret this as an attempt to cover up the mistake, he believed it was the most responsible course of action. “There was no reason to leave that clip in,” he explained. “There was no reason to include it in the first place, and I would never want to make it seem okay by leaving it in the video.” Brownlee took full accountability, apologizing to his audience and promising never to engage in similar behavior again, emphasizing the importance of setting a positive example.
This isn’t the first time Brownlee has faced backlash this year. Earlier, his app, Panels, designed to bring dynamic wallpapers to smartphones, drew criticism over issues with pricing and data disclosure. Users voiced concerns that the app required extensive data access, which many felt was excessive for a wallpaper tool. Brownlee later addressed the incident, admitting it was a misstep and clarifying that he had no intentions of collecting users’ personal data.
For a creator who has built his brand on trust and transparency, these recent missteps have certainly tested his rapport with fans. However, his candid apologies and willingness to accept responsibility seem to have resonated with his audience. Brownlee’s response, particularly in a social media landscape where accountability can be rare, could be seen as a reflection of his commitment to his viewers. While this incident was certainly a lapse in judgment, it remains to be seen how Brownlee will continue to handle the challenges that come with balancing a large online platform with personal responsibility.
