Kai Cenat Criticizes Streamers Who Claim Streaming Is Tougher Than Traditional 9-5 Jobs

The perennial debate over whether streaming is harder than working a traditional 9-to-5 job has resurfaced, with Twitch sensation Kai Cenat adding his voice to the discussion. In a recent appearance on Shannon Sharpe’s podcast, Cenat unequivocally dismissed the idea that streaming could rival the challenges of a typical full-time job, labeling those who believe otherwise as “idiots.”

Kai Cenat’s Take on Streaming vs. 9-to-5 Jobs

When asked directly by Sharpe if streaming is harder than a 9-to-5 job, Kai Cenat didn’t hesitate:
“Hell no. Anybody who says streaming is harder than a 9-to-5 is an idiot,” he asserted.

As one of Twitch’s most prominent creators, Cenat has firsthand experience with the relentless nature of content creation. He acknowledged the significant effort involved in his profession—spending countless hours planning, performing, and maintaining an engaging presence. Yet, he emphasized that pursuing a passion like streaming fundamentally differs from working a job that one might not enjoy.

Shannon Sharpe asked Kai Cenat on his opinion about the “is streaming harder than a 9-5” topic:

“anybody that says streaming is harder than a 9-5 is an idiot” pic.twitter.com/WU4Yhj0oUz

— ryan 🤿 (@scubaryan_) January 1, 2025

“I work so hard on my streams; it takes a lot of hard work, a lot of planning. You’ve gotta be in front of a camera for dozens of hours. The scale that I do it on, it’s hard,” Kai Cenat explained. “But harder than a 9-to-5? You’re talking about somebody that may not even want to be there. I love streaming. I think about it all the time. The average 9-to-5 worker don’t wanna be there.”

Recognizing the Struggles of Traditional Work

Although Kai Cenat never held a conventional job himself—having achieved success as a streamer early in life—he showed empathy for those working tirelessly to make ends meet. He highlighted the unique struggles faced by blue-collar workers, such as financial stress and family responsibilities.

“You get paid, then that’s going straight to bills, taking care of kids… It’s hard,” he said, acknowledging the financial and emotional burdens many 9-to-5 workers face daily.

Cenat isn’t the first high-profile streamer to weigh in on this contentious topic. In May 2024, Overwatch streamer Dafran shared his own experience after briefly leaving streaming for a traditional job. Despite his initial enthusiasm, Dafran admitted he lasted only two weeks before quitting, calling it “way harder than streaming.”

While the debate is unlikely to be settled anytime soon, Cenat’s remarks serve as a reminder of the privilege and passion that fuel careers in streaming, distinguishing it from the grind of conventional work.

• Also read: MrBeast and Thea Booysen Share Plans for Intimate Island Wedding After Christmas Engagement

Shivam Kumar

Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....