In the world of online streaming and VTubing, reputations can be shattered in an instant, as evidenced by the dramatic fall from grace of two prominent VTuber personalities, Baebub and Anntan. Their recent controversies highlight the volatile nature of online fame and the severe consequences of crossing ethical boundaries in the digital age.
The Drama, Baebub and Anntan to The Small Twitch Streamer
On August 10, 2024, Baebub, a VTuber with nearly 40,000 followers, was banned from Twitch. The ban stemmed from a heated incident involving a smaller streamer, Napnide. During a Dead by Daylight match, Baebub and her friends accused Napnide of unsportsmanlike behavior.
They claimed that he was “humping” them, a term used to describe a form of taunting in gaming. In response, Baebub and her associates allegedly harassed Napnide in his chat, making derogatory remarks about his appearance and dismissing his worth as a streamer.
This altercation escalated quickly on Twitter, where clips of the harassment went viral. The backlash was swift and unforgiving. Baebub’s friend, Anntan, a fellow partnered streamer, also faced criticism for making racist remarks about Napnide’s appearance and attributing his behavior to his skin color. Both VTubers’ actions were widely condemned as unprofessional and unacceptable.
Apologies and Consequences
Following the outcry, Baebub attempted to downplay the situation, claiming her actions were misrepresented and that she was a victim of a hate campaign. However, evidence from the incident, including clips and testimonies from Napnide, contradicted her statements. Despite the clear misconduct, Twitch’s initial response was to impose a temporary ban. This leniency was met with further criticism from the community.
On August 15, Baebub returned to streaming, only to face continued backlash, leading her to take a brief hiatus. She eventually issued an apology on August 17, acknowledging her role in the controversy but failing to address the full extent of her actions’ impact on Napnide. The apology was met with skepticism and seen as too little, too late.
Anntan’s apology, delivered in French and English on August 16, also drew criticism. She began by describing her recent health issues and personal traumas, framing them as reasons for her behavior. Critics argued that her apology seemed insincere and self-serving, focusing more on her own struggles than on the harm caused to Napnide.
The Fallout, The Drama for Baebub Career
The fallout for both VTubers was significant. Anntan’s streaming activities ceased, and she has not returned to the platform. Baebub’s attempt to salvage her career has been met with mixed reactions, with many calling for more severe consequences for her actions. Both individuals’ reputations have been irrevocably damaged, serving as a cautionary tale for the online community about the importance of maintaining professionalism and empathy.
In the end, the controversies surrounding Baebub and Anntan underscore the fragile nature of online fame and the need for accountability in the digital age. Their experiences reflect the broader challenges facing content creators as they navigate the complex landscape of online interactions and community standards.