One of the more challenging aspects of live streaming on Twitch or YouTube is keeping the conversation going with chat, in an effort to be entertaining. It is one of the reasons that streaming is popular for viewers, that off-the-cuff, unfiltered look into a streamer’s thoughts. The danger inherent in that is when a streamer is looking for something to say and then makes a comment without thinking of its deeper implications. This is the current situation facing popular YouTube streamer Valkyrae, who is trying to walk back a controversial comment.
Valkyrae, the winner of the Content Creator of the Year award at The Game Awards last year, is bringing in big viewership numbers as one of the fastest rising stars in the streaming world. Valkyrae accidentally revealed her earnings on stream, and it is safe to say that she is a top earner on YouTube. When someone reaches the heights that Valkyrae has, there comes increased scrutiny as every stream is watched by tens of thousands of people from a wide range of backgrounds.
In what was an attempt to show her appreciation of women, Valkyrae said “I wish I was gay… I love women so much” on stream. Going too far in this manner, despite the statement being well-intentioned, led to immediate criticism in chat. Her comment comes from a privileged position of heteronormativity, and doesn’t consider the marginalized position LGBTQ+ people experience as part of their daily lives.
As such, Valkyrae issued an apology for the comment, recognizing her privileged position and pledging to do better. As one of the fastest-growing streamers in the world, Valkyrae’s words have power, and this slip appears to be a revealing moment for the streamer in terms of how she will conduct herself going forward.
This is not uncommon for someone experiencing a sudden explosion of fame. Learning how to navigate a world where what one says suddenly has weight to it is a challenge when those words may be interpreted differently by fans. It is also, sadly, not uncommon for that newfound fame to lead to obsessive fans, something Valkyrae has dealt with first hand.
Valkyrae’s apology has been well received by her fanbase, with most people forgiving of her comment, understanding that it was meant to be a positive statement. With the air cleared, Valkyrae will return to the GTA Online NoPixel RP server she has been a part of recently. Navigating the worlds of streaming and internet fame while being aware of the different lives that viewers live is a challenge, and Valkyrae appears to be learning as she goes.
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