Netflix Strikes Deal with YouTube Star Mark Rober for New Competition Series
Netflix has added another major YouTube creator to its line-up, announcing a new deal with former NASA engineer and science content creator Mark Rober.
Rober, 45, has built a massive following of over 70 million subscribers on YouTube, where his inventive videos on science, engineering, and technology frequently attract tens of millions of views. Some of his experiments and creative builds have surpassed 100 million views, making him one of the platform’s most recognisable figures.
The streaming giant confirmed that Rober will produce an original competition series for Netflix in collaboration with Jimmy Kimmel’s production company. Kimmel, who has hosted Rober several times on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, described him as “one of the best and brightest creators,” adding that his content is both “clever and inventive” while still delivering education in an entertaining format.
The move continues Netflix’s growing strategy of partnering with digital-first stars. Earlier this year, children’s entertainer Ms Rachel joined the platform with four exclusive episodes of her YouTube show, while British group The Sidemen launched their Netflix reality series Inside in 2024.
Media analyst Jo Redfern said Netflix’s interest in YouTube creators is a calculated move, noting that such stars bring ready-made fanbases and proven storytelling skills. “They’re not overnight successes—they’ve spent years building audiences and refining content,” she explained, highlighting their ability to act as producers, directors, and editors in one.
Unlike Ms Rachel’s Netflix adaptation, which lifted directly from her YouTube format, Rober’s series will be developed from scratch, targeting young audiences with fresh, original content.
Streaming platforms are increasingly competing for YouTube talent. CoComelon, which began on YouTube in 2006 and later became a Netflix success, recently shifted to Disney+ after Netflix declined to renew its deal. Meanwhile, The Sidemen have hinted at ambitions for a US version of their reality project.
The rise of YouTube creators in mainstream streaming also reflects the risks of staying confined to one platform. “Creators know relying solely on YouTube is dangerous—an algorithm change could upend their business model,” Redfern noted. Partnering with Netflix or other streamers, she said, offers legitimacy, stability, and access to new audiences.
Not every crossover has been smooth. Last year, YouTuber MrBeast launched Beast Games on Amazon Prime, a $100m production billed as the biggest live game show ever. While the show drew tens of millions of viewers and secured renewals, it also sparked lawsuits from contestants who alleged mistreatment during filming.
Still, industry watchers believe Netflix’s latest move signals its ongoing bet on digital-first creators to keep younger audiences engaged – while giving established YouTubers like Rober a new stage to showcase their creativity.
