With BuzzFeed announcing the $82.5 million sale of its parent company, First We Feast, the well-known online food-culture magazine and YouTube channel, most known for coproducing “Hot Ones,” is getting new owners. The buyers include notable names such as “Hot Ones” show’s Emmy-nominated host Sean Evans, billionaire George Soros’ Soros Fund Management and entertainment firms Crooked Media and Mythical Entertainment.
From humble beginnings to major success
First We Feast started off as a Complex Networks food blog in 2012. With more than 14 million YouTube subscribers and billions of views since its 2015 debut, “Hot Ones” has become a cultural phenomenon. The show’s unique format, where celebrities tackle increasingly spicy chicken wings while answering deep questions, has featured stars like Gordon Ramsay, Jennifer Lawrence and Ryan Reynolds.
As Chief Creative Officer, Sean Evans, who hosted the premiere episode, assumes a leadership position. Chris Schonberger, the company’s founder, will assume the role of CEO and pledge to grow First We Feast into new markets including live events, hiring talent and additional platforms. “The future is spicy,” Evans remarked.
BuzzFeed’s strategic shift
BuzzFeed sold First We Feast to pay off $88.8 million in debt after acquiring the brand in 2021 as part of its $294 million acquisition of Complex Networks. BuzzFeed will be able to focus on high-margin, tech-driven revenue, including AI-powered initiatives, thanks to this deal, according to CEO Jonah Peretti.
A new chapter for First We Feast
The deal establishes First We Feast as a stand-alone media powerhouse. With the upcoming new season of “Hot Ones” debuting in January 2025 to commemorate its tenth anniversary, fans may anticipate thrilling new projects. Along with continuing to produce popular shows like “Heat Eaters” and “The Burger Show,” the brand will soon start its yearly holiday spectacular.
Schonberger summed up the milestone, saying, “What began as a humble food blog has evolved into a powerhouse multi-platform brand.” With its new ownership and ambitious plans, the journey of “Hot Ones” and First We Feast is just heating up.