A lawsuit has been filed against production companies MrB2024 and Amazon, alleging exploitation and mistreatment of participants in the upcoming series Beast Games, hosted by renowned YouTuber MrBeast, also known as Jimmy Donaldson. The case, filed at a Los Angeles court on Monday, accuses the production team of failing to pay contestants, subjecting them to unsafe conditions, and enabling incidents of sexual harassment.

The legal documents, filed on behalf of five anonymous contestants, claim that the production team exerted excessive control over participants' lives, including surveillance, limited access to sleep, clothing regulations, and restricted communication with the outside world. Participants were reportedly underfed and overtired, with meals provided sporadically and in inadequate portions, posing a risk to their health and well-being.

The court papers also highlight allegations of an unsafe environment, including cramped areas, dangerous sets, and insufficient background checks that allowed individuals with criminal records to participate in the show. Some contestants allegedly suffered physical injuries without receiving appropriate medical attention.

Furthermore, the lawsuit claims that the production set fostered a culture of misogyny and sexism, creating a hostile environment for women and perpetuating incidents of sexual harassment.

The contestants' legal representation argues that participants should have been classified as employees, as their time and efforts were deemed essential labor for the production. They assert that contestants deserve compensation for their unpaid work. Several claimants are seeking thousands of dollars on behalf of all individuals who took part in the show to cover unpaid wages.

In addition to seeking unpaid wages, two female claimants are also seeking further compensation for the allegations of a hostile workplace and the incidents of sexual harassment they endured.

Earlier this year, MrBeast made headlines when he announced that he had hired private investigators to look into allegations concerning a co-host on his channel who had supposedly groomed a minor. MrBeast promptly removed her from the channel, expressing his disapproval of such behavior.

The legal action also includes Off One's Base LLP, a production company mentioned in the court documents. BBC Newsbeat has been unable to reach the company for comment.

BBC Newsbeat has reached out to MrBeast and Amazon for their responses to the allegations levied in the lawsuit but has not received any response at the time of reporting.

As the legal proceedings continue, the outcome will determine the repercussions for MrBeast, Amazon, and all entities involved in the production of Beast Games.