A French livestreamer known as Naruto is at the center of a major controversy after participant Jean Promanove died following appearances in his extreme “challenge” streams. What happened has sparked widespread anger and raised serious questions about dangerous content on streaming platforms.
The streams featured Promanove in what viewers described as prison-style scenarios with escalating humiliation and physical challenges. Circulating clips show the participant being grabbed by the neck in at least one sequence. These disturbing images went viral after news of Promanove’s death spread online.
A text message allegedly sent by Promanove to his mother before his death paints a troubling picture. “I’m completely stuck with his game. It’s going too far,” the message reportedly read. “I want to leave, but he does not want to let me, he keeps me from leaving, he is sequestrating me.”
Instead of addressing these serious allegations, Naruto has positioned himself as the victim. He claims he’s being targeted by a coordinated cyberbullying campaign. The streamer announced his legal team plans to identify and prosecute anyone he believes is defaming or harassing him online.
French authorities have reportedly been pressed for answers about the streams and their aftermath. Under French law, potential charges could range from assault leading to death without intent to unlawful confinement and failure to assist a person in danger. The country’s legal system allows investigating judges to direct evidence-gathering in such cases.
This case echoes previous streaming tragedies that ended in criminal prosecution. In Russia, streamer Reeflay was convicted after a participant died during one of his broadcasts. These cases highlight the dangerous escalation of “challenge” content where donations trigger increasingly risky dares.
The exact circumstances and official cause of Promanove’s death have not been publicly confirmed by French authorities. What is clear is that the combination of extreme content, platform promotion, and monetary incentives created a situation that ended in tragedy.
