Who Is Ava Kris Tyson? The Remarkable Life of MrBeast’s Longtime Co-Host
Ava Kris Tyson, a cornerstone of the MrBeast YouTube empire and a close friend of its creator, Jimmy Donaldson, has become one of the most visible transgender personalities in the digital age. For years, millions knew her as Chris Tyson, the energetic and often comedic co-host in countless viral videos, but her recent journey of self-discovery and public transition has redefined her identity and sparked a global conversation about gender, friendship, and authenticity. This article explores the life of Ava Kris Tyson, from her foundational role in building one of YouTube's biggest channels to her courageous decision to live as her true self under the intense scrutiny of the public eye.
From Childhood Friend to YouTube Pioneer
Ava Kris Tyson’s story is intrinsically linked with that of Jimmy “MrBeast” Donaldson. Born on May 18, 1996, in North Carolina, she grew up with Donaldson, forming a friendship that would eventually become the bedrock of a multi-billion dollar media enterprise. Before the elaborate challenges and massive cash giveaways, they were simply two kids making videos for fun. Tyson was one of the very first collaborators on the MrBeast channel, appearing in early videos and helping Donaldson conceptualize and execute the stunts that would slowly build their audience.
Her role was never just that of a background character; she was a co-creator and a driving force behind the channel's content strategy. In the early days, when the MrBeast channel was still finding its footing, Tyson was instrumental. She participated in grueling challenges, such as counting to 100,000, and provided the relatable, often humorous, counterpoint to Donaldson’s ambitious and sometimes eccentric ideas. This dynamic helped humanize the channel, making the larger-than-life stunts feel grounded in genuine friendship. As the channel exploded in popularity, Tyson remained a constant presence, evolving from a simple participant into a key on-screen personality beloved by a global fanbase.
Life in the Public Eye as Chris Tyson
For over a decade, the world knew her as Chris Tyson. She was a fixture in nearly every major MrBeast video, known for her willingness to participate in any challenge, her infectious laugh, and her strong bond with the rest of the crew, including Chandler Hallow and Karl Jacobs. During this time, she presented publicly as a cisgender man. She married Katie Tyson in 2018, and in June 2020, they welcomed their son, Tucker. This chapter of her life was extensively, if not fully, documented for millions of viewers, who saw her as a devoted friend, husband, and father.
However, behind the scenes, a personal journey of self-discovery was unfolding. While her on-screen persona was a major part of her identity, it did not represent the entirety of her experience. The pressure of maintaining a public image while grappling with profound questions about her gender identity created a complex internal conflict that would eventually lead to a pivotal and public transformation.
The Journey to Ava: Announcing a New Chapter
In early 2023, fans began to notice subtle changes in Tyson's appearance, sparking widespread speculation online. On April 5, 2023, she addressed the rumors directly, announcing on her Twitter account that she had been undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for two months. She clarified her identity with courage and vulnerability, stating that her decision was made to feel more aligned with her true self.
In a landmark interview with fellow YouTuber Anthony Padilla in July 2023, she publicly came out as a transgender woman. In a moment of profound self-acceptance, she stated, "I am a woman! She/her... I've never said that publicly, but I've been fully confident in that decision for a while now." She explained that her journey was not a recent development but the culmination of a lifelong feeling of being disconnected from her assigned gender. She revealed that she had considered transitioning years earlier but was held back by fear and the immense pressure of her public platform.
She chose the name Ava Kris Tyson, keeping "Kris" as a middle name to honor the identity that so many people had come to know. This decision symbolized a bridge between her past and her future—acknowledging her history while fully embracing her new, authentic identity.
Navigating Public Reaction and Defending Authenticity
The announcement was met with a tidal wave of reactions. While millions of fans and fellow creators offered overwhelming support, a vocal minority responded with transphobic attacks and misinformation. Critics and online trolls spread baseless theories, with some falsely claiming her transition was a "nightmare" for Jimmy Donaldson or that it would harm the MrBeast brand. Both Tyson and Donaldson swiftly and firmly pushed back against this narrative.
Donaldson’s defense of his friend was unwavering. In response to a critical video, he tweeted, "Yeah, this is getting absurd. Chris isn’t my ‘nightmare’ he’s my f**ken friend and things are fine. All this transphobia is starting to piss me off." This public declaration of support was crucial, sending a clear message to their massive audience that their friendship was unconditional and that bigotry had no place in their community. Ava herself addressed the negativity with grace, explaining that her happiness and authenticity were paramount. She also spoke about the difficult but necessary conversations she would have with her son, Tucker, emphasizing her commitment to being a loving and present parent.
A New Role as an Advocate and Icon
By publicly sharing her journey, Ava Kris Tyson has become one of the most prominent transgender figures on the internet. In an era where LGBTQ+ rights are frequently debated and attacked, her visibility on a platform as massive as MrBeast provides crucial representation for countless individuals, particularly young people, who may be navigating their own identities. Her story demonstrates that it is possible to embrace one's true self, even in the face of immense public pressure.
Her role in MrBeast videos has shifted slightly since her transition. While she appears less frequently in the main channel's high-stakes challenges, she remains an integral part of the company, often working behind the scenes and focusing on her own well-being and family. She has used her platform to educate her followers about transgender issues, sharing resources and her personal experiences to foster greater understanding and acceptance. Her bravery has not only solidified her place as a beloved internet personality but has also transformed her into an accidental but powerful advocate for the transgender community.
Ava Kris Tyson's story is one of evolution, courage, and the power of unwavering friendship. From being a foundational member of the world's biggest YouTube channel to embracing her identity as a woman on a global stage, her journey is a testament to the importance of living authentically. She has proven that true strength lies not in conforming to expectations but in having the courage to redefine them, inspiring millions in the process.
