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Twitch CEO Dan Clancy has issued a public apology following backlash over the assault of streamer Emiru at TwitchCon 2023 and his controversial interview remarks. The incident has intensified scrutiny over Twitch’s event safety and accountability.
What Happened at TwitchCon?
During TwitchCon 2023, popular streamer Emiru (Emily Schunk) was aggressively grabbed by an attendee while livestreaming. The disturbing footage went viral, sparking outrage over attendee safety and Twitch’s response.
Criticism grew when Clancy downplayed the incident in an interview, calling it “unfortunate” but claiming TwitchCon was “generally safe.” Streamers and fans accused him of minimizing the assault, leading to widespread backlash.
Clancy’s Apology: “We Failed”
Facing mounting pressure, Clancy posted a formal apology, admitting Twitch’s dual failures:
“We failed, both in allowing it to occur, and in our response following. To Emiru and the community: what happened was unacceptable. Our initial comments didn’t reflect the seriousness, and I’m deeply sorry.”
He announced new safety measures, including:
– Increased security
– Stricter attendee screening
– Zero-tolerance harassment policies
Streamer Reactions: Relief vs. Skepticism
While some creators accepted the apology, others doubted Twitch’s commitment to change. Past incidents, including harassment at earlier TwitchCons, have eroded trust.
Emiru has not yet responded, but peers like Pokimane and HasanAbi supported her, urging concrete action from Twitch.
Broader Impact on Twitch
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about creator safety, especially for women, at live events. With rising competition from YouTube Gaming and Kick, Twitch risks alienating its community if reforms fall short.
What’s Next for Twitch?
Twitch plans a full policy review, with updates expected soon. The platform’s ability to rebuild trust hinges on enforcing promised changes.
Follow for updates on Twitch’s response and community reactions.
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