YouTuber Max Gilardi, known online as hotdiggedydemon, announced on a livestream Saturday that he was considering doctor-assisted euthanasia in Switzerland due to chronic pain and financial hardship. Gilardi, 38, who has amassed over 2.1 million subscribers for his animated videos, stated that his health issues, beginning with a fibromyalgia diagnosis in 2024, have made it increasingly difficult to create content and manage his finances.
"I'm tired all the time. I spend a lot of my time lying down. I get a lot of bad pain in all my joints and my muscles, ankles, shins, hands, knees, hips, neck. I have a lot of difficulty sleeping," Gilardi said, detailing his chronic pain and other unexplained symptoms like sudden drooling and speech difficulties. He also expressed frustration with the escalating cost of medical care, stating, "There's nothing more expensive than living."
Gilardi's announcement indicated that he viewed euthanasia as a "natural conclusion" to his suffering. He initially stated his intention to travel to Switzerland for the procedure, though Swiss law permits assisted suicide rather than euthanasia, requiring the individual to administer the fatal dose themselves.
Following backlash to his announcement, Gilardi posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday that he would reconsider his decision. "Decided I'm not thinking clearly, will reassess," he wrote, indicating a temporary pause on his plans.
For individuals in New York City experiencing suicidal thoughts or mental health crises, 1-888-NYC-WELL offers free and confidential counseling. Nationally, the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention hotline can be reached at 988 or through SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.