Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast, is entering the world of startup investing as he makes his Shark Tank debut as a guest Shark during the show’s Season 18 premiere on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.
The YouTube star will appear alongside Beast Industries CEO Jeffrey Housenbold for a special two-hour season premiere event, where they will evaluate entrepreneurs pitching their businesses alongside the show’s regular investors. The episode will also be available to stream the following day on Hulu.
MrBeast’s appearance marks a major crossover between the creator economy and traditional entrepreneurship. Known for building one of the largest audiences on YouTube, Donaldson has expanded his influence beyond content creation by launching businesses in food, consumer products, and entertainment.
From viral challenges and large-scale productions to consumer brands built around his audience, MrBeast has become one of the most recognized creators in the world and a leading example of how online personalities can turn digital communities into global business ventures.
On Shark Tank, he will bring experience shaped by years of audience growth, brand building, and direct-to-consumer strategies as he evaluates founders seeking investment and guidance. His perspective adds a creator-focused approach to a show traditionally centered on business founders and investors.
MrBeast and Housenbold will appear during the opening two episodes of Shark Tank Season 18 as part of a special premiere event. His role is a guest appearance, similar to other rotating guest Sharks, rather than a permanent position on the panel.
Season 18 will also feature other guest investors throughout the season, including Mindy Kaling, JJ Watt, Erin Foster, Sara Foster, and Steven Bartlett.
MrBeast’s appearance reflects the expanding presence of digital creators in business, as online personalities increasingly move into entrepreneurship, investing, and brand development.
