DraftKings Co-Founder Matt Kalish Launches HardScope YouTube Channel

DraftKings co-founder Matt Kalish is expanding his creator media business HardScope with a new YouTube channel launching on September 30, 2026.

The initial slate consists of four original series featuring streamers and creators N3on, Zach Justice, Matcrackz and Bloody Osiris. HardScope says more than $4 million has been invested in developing and producing the first group of shows, which will premiere between September and November.

Kalish is founder and CEO of HardScope. He stepped down as president of DraftKings in March 2026 after 14 years with the betting operator but remains a member of its board.

Four Series Will Launch by the End of November

HardScope's first programme, R3BORN, follows streamer N3on through a fitness transformation while documenting how the process fits around his livestreaming career.

Another series, UNPACKED, is built around Matcrackz and the collectibles market, with celebrity guests searching for memorabilia.

The wider launch slate also includes projects with Zach Justice and fashion creator Bloody Osiris.

Rather than treating creators only as paid talent, HardScope says they will receive equity stakes in the intellectual property they develop with the company.

That means successful formats could generate revenue for both HardScope and participating creators beyond advertising around individual YouTube episodes.

HardScope Plans Revenue Beyond YouTube Advertising

The company plans to develop its shows into broader entertainment properties rather than rely exclusively on YouTube monetisation.

Potential revenue streams include merchandise, brand partnerships, live events, licensing and distribution agreements with other platforms.

HardScope is therefore positioning the YouTube channel as the starting point for new creator-led intellectual property rather than the final distribution product.

The model reflects a wider shift in creator media, where large online personalities are increasingly seeking ownership of the formats and businesses built around their audiences.

DraftKings Has a Separate Marketing Deal With HardScope

HardScope also has a significant commercial relationship with DraftKings.

DraftKings entered into an agreement giving the operator the option to spend up to $30 million through HardScope over three years. Under the arrangement, HardScope can broker promotional agreements with creators and other media personalities, receiving a commission of up to 14% when qualifying deals are executed.

The agreement does not mean HardScope automatically receives $30 million. Payments depend on DraftKings choosing to use the services and completing individual statements of work and talent agreements.

The companies also had an earlier agreement signed in June 2025 under which DraftKings could pay HardScope up to $600,000 for promotional services.

The larger arrangement was approved before Kalish left his executive role at DraftKings. Both companies have said it was reviewed and approved by DraftKings' independent audit committee.

The September 30 YouTube launch now expands HardScope beyond its agency and marketing activity into direct ownership and production of creator-led entertainment.