Sean Evans takes full control of Hot Ones after $82.5 million acquisition

Sean Evans, the charismatic host of the wildly popular YouTube series Hot Ones, has officially bought the show, marking a major shift in its ownership.

Co-created by Evans and Chris Schonberger in 2015, Hot Ones has grown into an internet sensation where celebrities are interviewed while enduring increasingly hot wings. The series has amassed over 14 million subscribers and 4 billion views, with star-studded guests like Margot Robbie, Paul Rudd, and Gordon Ramsay.

Previously owned by Buzzfeed, the series has now been acquired for a staggering $82.5 million by a consortium of buyers. Evans and Schonberger lead the charge in this acquisition, with Evans taking on the role of chief creative officer, while Schonberger will serve as CEO. This deal also involves notable backers, including podcast company Crooked Media and Mythical Entertainment, the brainchild of YouTube duo Rhett and Link, alongside Soros Fund Management.

The acquisition brings significant changes to Hot Ones, including the freedom for Evans and Schonberger to exercise greater creative control over the series. The interview format, which has become a favorite for celebrities and fans alike, will continue to evolve under the new ownership. Evans, known for his meticulously researched questions, has created viral moments by blending humor, vulnerability, and spice in a way no other talk show can replicate.

As Hot Ones enters this new chapter, fans can expect even more fiery interviews and unforgettable celebrity reactions. With a larger stake in the show’s direction, Evans and Schonberger are set to further expand the series' influence in the digital entertainment landscape.