Kick Under Investigation Following Streamer's Death

The Australian video platform, Kick, is facing serious allegations as French prosecutors launch an investigation into the heartbreaking death of content creator Raphaël Graven, known online as Jean Pormanove. Graven was discovered lifeless in a residence near Nice, sparking questions about the content he filmed and the responsibilities of streaming platforms.

A Pattern of Disturbing Content

Throughout his online career, Graven became infamous for videos that showcased extreme violence and humiliation. The Paris prosecutor has indicated that the investigation will focus on whether Kick knowingly permitted the broadcast of content that violates personal integrity.

Kick's Response to the Investigation

Kick has acknowledged the investigation and is reportedly consulting legal advisors. In their statement, a company spokesperson affirmed their commitment to cooperating fully with authorities and ensuring compliance with the European Union's Digital Services Act, particularly concerning the duty to report threats to individual safety.

Government Action for 'Negligence'

In a striking development, France’s digital affairs minister, Clara Chappaz, announced that the government plans to sue Kick for 'negligence' due to its inaction on curbing dangerous content on the platform.

Tragic Circumstances Surrounding Graven's Death

On August 18, Graven was reported dead during a live broadcast, following a series of distressing live streams characterized by violence and sleep deprivation. Chappaz described the incident as an 'absolute horror,' noting that Graven had been subjected to humiliation on the platform for months.

Autopsy Reveals No Third-Party Involvement

A postmortem examination later revealed that Graven's death was not caused by trauma or the actions of another individual. Meanwhile, local law enforcement is actively reviewing videos and interviewing eyewitnesses who were present during his death.

Statements from Kick and Community Reaction

Kick expressed their deep sorrow over Graven's passing, extending condolences to his family and community. They emphasized that their community guidelines are intended to protect creators and reiterated their commitment to maintaining these standards across the platform.

The Dangers of Stream Culture

As live-streaming gains immense popularity, this tragic case raises critical questions about the limits of content creation and the moral obligations of platforms to protect their users. The fallout from this incident could lead to significant changes in how streaming services monitor and regulate user-generated content.