Popular Twitch streamer Felix "xQc" Lengyel has recently secured a lucrative deal with the new streaming platform Kick. As a longstanding leader in Twitch statistics, xQc's transition to Kick is expected to have a significant impact on the platform's overall viewership.
Having originally gained a dedicated fanbase from his professional career in the esports industry, particularly as an Overwatch League pro, xQc has experienced exponential success on Twitch in recent years. While other notable Twitch streamers such as Kai Cenat, Ibai, Tarik, and IlloJuan boast impressive followings of their own, xQc consistently attracts tens of thousands of viewers on a daily basis. Recognizing the immense popularity and influence of xQc, Kick has presented him with an offer that rivals contracts in the realms of film, music, and sports.
The New York Times has verified that xQc has inked a contract worth $70 million with the Kick streaming service, with the potential for even greater earnings. The Kick contract reportedly includes incentives that could potentially push xQc's earnings beyond $100 million, although the current figure of $70 million appears to be firmly established. While the contract does not require xQc to be exclusively tied to Kick, it does specify that the platform will serve as his primary website, enabling him to continue producing content on YouTube, TikTok, and even Twitch.
Although Kick does not have the same level of viewership as the Amazon livestreaming service, which attracts 31 million daily viewers, Twitch streamers such as Trainwrecks and Adin Ross who have joined Kick have brought along substantial audiences. According to Ryan Morrison, xQc's manager, the decision to move to Kick is primarily focused on the creator, which should be comforting for long-time xQc fans who prefer minimal changes. Another Twitch streamer and friend of xQc, Kai Cenat, recently signed a lucrative deal with Rumble that has allowed him to expand across multiple platforms, suggesting a similar benefit for xQc during his transition to Kick.
It is worth noting that Kick receives notable funding from Stake, a popular online gambling website that was frequently featured in the slots category on Twitch before being banned. This financial backing may be a contributing factor to Kick's substantial capital. While xQc's contract with Kick guarantees him $70 million, it is likely that he will earn even more through subscribers and donations, which he already receives on Twitch. Given xQc's large and dedicated Twitch following built over the past few years, it may take some time for viewers to transition to Kick in order to keep up with his entertaining and unpredictable content.
Source: New York Times