The Try Guys started as a simple experiment where four friends tested challenges from BuzzFeed lists to see if viral ideas really worked in real life. Their mix of humor, vulnerability, and relatable reactions quickly turned unknown click tests into a cultural phenomenon that redefined how guys approach online content.
As their audience grew, the guys evolved from chasing trends to building a brand around authenticity, creative storytelling, and boundary-pushing formats that resonate with viewers who want entertainment plus genuine emotion.
How Try Guys Left BuzzFeed And Built Their Own Brand
Their departure from BuzzFeed marked a strategic shift from platform-dependent content to owned media, giving them full control over production, messaging, and audience relationships.
| Milestone | Year | Key Outcome | Impact Metric |
|---|---|---|---|
| BuzzFeed Tasty Try Guys Pilot | 2016 | Short form recipe and challenge videos | Rapid subscriber growth via BuzzFeed distribution |
| First Independent Video | 2018 | Self produced experiment series | Higher watch time and retention |
| Formal Departure From BuzzFeed | 2019 | Full ownership of content and brand | Diversified revenue streams |
| Launch of 2nd Gen Studio | 2020 | Larger production scale and storytelling | Increased premium brand partnerships |
| Membership and Direct Fan Revenue | 2021 2023 | Members only content and experiences | Recurring revenue and deeper engagement |
Content Experimentation Beyond BuzzFeed Listicles
Without BuzzFeed format constraints, the Try Guys pursued deeper narratives, from personal vulnerability to large scale social experiments that tested boundaries of comedy and empathy.
Long form episodes and documentary style releases gave them space to explore mental health, cultural topics, and identity while keeping the humor that originally hooked their audience.
Business Evolution And Revenue Diversification
Moving away from platform algorithms, they built multiple income channels including memberships, live experiences, branded collaborations, and original series that aligned with their values.
Members first benefits, behind the scenes access, and exclusive live streams created a sustainable model that reduced reliance on any single platform or partner.
Creative Risks And Boundary Pushing
The guys leaned into discomfort, tackling topics like gender expectations, cultural stereotypes, and personal trauma, which differentiated them from typical comedy brands and strengthened audience trust.
This willingness to be vulnerable turned casual viewers into dedicated supporters who appreciated the balance of outrageous stunts and heartfelt reflection.
Marketing Partnerships And Brand Alignment
Strategic collaborations now emphasize authentic fit rather than pure reach, ensuring products and experiences resonate with their community while protecting credibility.
By prioritizing long term relationships and shared values, they maintained audience trust even when experimenting with controversial or polarizing themes.
Key Takeaways For Creators Inspired By The Try Guys Journey
- Own your audience by building direct relationships and diversified revenue.
- Experiment beyond listicles to develop deeper, more impactful storytelling.
- Balance humor with vulnerability to create lasting emotional connections.
- Choose brand partners that align with your values and audience interests.
- Invest in production quality and long form formats to increase engagement and retention.
FAQ
Reader questions
Why did the Try Guys leave BuzzFeed?
They left to gain creative control, own their audience data, and build a sustainable business model independent of platform constraints.
How did their content change after leaving BuzzFeed?
Their content shifted toward longer formats, deeper storytelling, personal vulnerability, and self produced experiments that aligned with their brand.
What revenue streams do the Try Guys use now?
They rely on memberships, live tours, branded partnerships, original series, and direct fan experiences to support production and growth.
How do the Try Guys maintain authenticity while working with brands?
They prioritize genuine fit, long term relationships, and transparent storytelling to ensure partnerships feel organic rather than purely commercial.