In a recent episode of the H3 Podcast, popular YouTuber and host Ethan Klein made headlines after accusing Twitch CEO Dan Clancy of harboring anti-Semitic sentiments. The allegation came as Klein reacted to the controversial decision by the streaming platform to lift bans on Sneako and the Fresh and Fit podcast, both of which have been labeled as problematic figures within the online community.
The comments quickly circulated across social media, sparking widespread discussion as many weighed in on Klein’s remarks and the broader implications of Twitch’s moderation policies.
Ethan Klein, who is married to Hila Klein, an Israeli who has served in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), has been outspoken on issues surrounding anti-Semitism and the treatment of Jewish communities online. This recent controversy comes on the heels of Twitch’s contentious ban of popular streamer Asmongold, who was penalized following comments that many found offensive towards Palestinian culture. Despite his criticisms of the platform for banning Asmongold, Klein was particularly vocal about the decision to allow Sneako and Fresh and Fit
During the podcast episode, Klein expressed his frustrations, stating bluntly:
“I am going to say it—Dan Clancy, the CEO, I think he hates Jewish people.”
The YouTuber didn’t stop there. He went on to criticize the unbanning of Sneako and Fresh and Fit, both of whom Klein labeled as Holocaust-denying anti-Semites. He highlighted their reputations for promoting extremist ideologies, expressing disbelief over Twitch’s decision to reinstate them:
*“They unblocked Sneako, like last week. Now this week, they unbanned *Fresh and Fit. These are the two most openly anti-Semitic content creators online. They are both Holocaust-denying anti-Semites.”
Ethan Klein also pointed out the inconsistency in Twitch’s enforcement of rules, suggesting that while figures like Sneako and Fresh and Fit are allowed back, the platform fails to address other serious issues. In particular, he referenced Twitch’s leniency towards content that he described as “terrorist propaganda.” This was a direct nod to a previous incident where streamer HasanAbi aired videos connected to the Houthi movement during a live stream featuring OTK member Nmplol. Klein had previously condemned HasanAbi’s actions, accusing him of promoting dangerous ideologies.
The criticism of HasanAbi adds another layer to the drama, as Klein and the popular streamer used to co-host the Leftovers
The episode has left Twitch facing a wave of backlash, with many questioning the platform’s moderation policies and its handling of creators who are accused of promoting harmful content. With accusations of anti-Semitism now in the mix, the platform’s leadership, particularly CEO Dan Clancy, may find themselves under even more scrutiny in the coming days.
As the conversation around Twitch’s content moderation policies continues to grow, it remains to be seen how the platform will address the increasing criticism from both creators and the wider public.