YouTube sensation Jimmy Donaldson - popularly known as MrBeast - has announced his engagement to girlfriend Thea Booysen.
The 26-year-old content creator shared the exciting news with his millions of followers on January 1, revealing that he had proposed to Booysen on Christmas Day.
Taking to Instagram, MrBeast posted a series of joyful photos from the proposal, featuring the couple dressed in matching MrBeast-branded Christmas sweaters, standing next to a festive Christmas tree surrounded by loved ones.
“Ya boy did a thing,” read MrBeast’s caption, accompanied by the images that captured the warmth and happiness of the moment. Booysen, who hails from South Africa, also took to social media to share her own heartfelt video, showing off her engagement ring as she sat on MrBeast’s lap, their dog joining in on the celebration.
Speaking to People, Booysen opened up about the behind-the-scenes details of the proposal, revealing how her family had flown in from South Africa to spend Christmas with them. "We were opening presents, and then for the very last present, he asked me to close my eyes because it was a surprise," she shared.
MrBeast, known for his creativity and sense of humor, added a playful touch to the proposal. "I intentionally dropped a large box to make noise before presenting the real gift — with the ring inside," he explained. He then went down on one knee, sealing the moment with his proposal.
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The couple’s bond grew stronger after meeting in 2022 during MrBeast’s visit to South Africa. Over a dinner conversation, the two connected on their shared interest in science and YouTube. Their relationship deepened when MrBeast reached out to Booysen, expressing an interest in reading her book. Reflecting on their connection, Booysen said, “I fell in love with his brain. To me, that’s everything — your brain, your drive, your discipline, your character, that’s everything to me.”
In a more intimate revelation, MrBeast expressed his desire for a private wedding. Despite his massive online following, the YouTube star emphasized the importance of making his wedding day a special occasion for his close-knit circle. “I don’t take much vacation because of how hard I work, so I definitely want to make sure that the wedding will be a time to celebrate with her and spend time with friends and family who we really enjoy being with," he shared.