From Gaming YouTuber to Banned Controversial Commentator: The Rise and Fall of a Polarizing Internet Personality
The story of Nicolas Kenn De Balinthazy is one of rapid rise, dramatic falls, and persistent reinvention in the chaotic world of online content creation. Better known by his online handle Sneako, this 27-year-old has become one of the most polarizing figures in digital media, bouncing between platforms after being permanently banned from YouTube and Instagram. Standing at 6'2" with a mixed Filipino and Haitian heritage, he's managed to build a devoted following despite—or perhaps because of—the constant controversy surrounding his content.
Sneako's journey began back in 2013 when he was just a teenager uploading Call of Duty gameplay videos to YouTube. Like many creators of that era, he started with Black Ops 2 commentary before stumbling onto something bigger. His 2015 vlog "How People View You" went viral and marked a turning point in his content strategy. Instead of sticking with gaming, he pivoted toward something more ambitious: street interviews and social commentary that would eventually define his brand.
What sets Sneako apart from other commentary creators is his willingness to tackle uncomfortable topics head-on. His "One Minute Podcast" series became a signature format where he'd deliver rapid-fire takes on everything from relationships to politics. Videos with provocative titles like "Women and Men Aren't Equal" and "Is It Okay to Be Fat?" generated millions of views and heated discussions in comment sections. His approach involves walking up to strangers on the street with a microphone, asking pointed questions that most people would shy away from—a style that's both compelling and cringe-inducing depending on your perspective.
The controversies that made him famous eventually became his downfall on major platforms. YouTube permanently suspended his channel in October 2022 for repeated community guideline violations, and Instagram followed suit in March 2024. Critics have labeled his content as promoting misogynistic and antisemitic rhetoric, particularly after his association with the so-called "red pill" community alongside figures like Andrew Tate. His conversion to Islam in mid-2023 added another layer to his already complex public persona, showing how his worldview continues to evolve.
Today, Sneako operates primarily on alternative platforms like Rumble and Kick, where content moderation is typically less restrictive than mainstream sites. His move to Miami reflects a broader trend among banned creators seeking to rebuild their audiences outside traditional social media ecosystems. Despite losing access to YouTube's massive reach, he's maintained a loyal fanbase drawn to his unfiltered takes and confrontational interview style. Whether you view him as a truth-teller challenging societal norms or a controversial figure pushing harmful rhetoric, there's no denying his impact on internet culture and the ongoing debates about free speech in digital spaces.