IShowSpeed kicks off Australia tour: gets rejected by Bondi babe as he runs after her

 IShowSpeed, the 19-year-old YouTube phenomenon with over 33 million subscribers, made a splash—literally—within hours of landing in Australia for his highly anticipated tour. 

Known for his daring antics and high-energy content, Speed’s first day in Sydney included a failed backflip into Sydney Harbour, a stolen hat debacle, and a cold shoulder from a Bondi beachgoer.

The Ohio native, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr, has become a global sensation for his headline-grabbing stunts and encounters with famous personalities, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Paris Olympics 100m champion Noah Lyles. 

On Thursday, Speed began his tour in Sydney, where young fans swarmed him at iconic locations like the Sydney Opera House, Taronga Zoo, and Bondi Beach. Parents even traveled hours with their kids for a chance to meet the streamer.

However, not all interactions went as planned. Wearing a custom Socceroos jersey, Speed attempted to charm a young woman at Bondi Beach but was “brutally denied” as she turned her back on him, showing no interest in a conversation.

That wasn’t the only hiccup. Later, an enthusiastic fan snatched a hat gifted to Speed, prompting the YouTuber to chase him down and deliver a heated scolding. 

“Speed blows up at a young fan who stole his hat,” an eyewitness posted on social media.

Adding to the chaotic day, Speed’s attempt at a backflip into Sydney Harbour went awry, requiring him to be pulled from the water.

Despite the mishaps, the streamer’s dynamic presence captivated fans who eagerly awaited more surprises during his Australia and New Zealand tour.