Kyle Forgeard has emerged as one of the most influential digital content creators and entrepreneurs in recent years. As the co-founder of the wildly popular YouTube channel NELK, Forgeard has amassed millions of followers, revolutionizing the online prank and entertainment industry. His influence extends beyond YouTube, as he has successfully ventured into business, launching the multi-million dollar brand Full Send. This article provides an in-depth look at Kyle Forgeard’s journey, from his early days to his rise as a top-tier digital entrepreneur.
Early Life and Background
Childhood and Education
Kyle Forgeard was born on July 12, 1994, in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. He grew up in a middle-class family and showed a strong interest in entertainment and media from a young age. He attended Ryerson University, where he studied film and media, but later dropped out to pursue his passion for content creation full-time.
Passion for Filmmaking
Even as a teenager, Forgeard had an interest in making videos. He enjoyed entertaining people and was drawn to the world of digital media. His ability to engage audiences through humor and pranks would later become the foundation for his career.
The Birth of NELK
Formation and Early Struggles
In 2010, Forgeard launched NELK alongside Jesse Sebastiani, Lucas Gasparini, and Marko Martinovic. Initially, the channel focused on comedic skits, pranks, and social experiments. However, it wasn’t until 2015 that the group gained significant traction. One of their breakthrough videos, “Coke Prank on Cops,” showcased their bold and risky prank style, catapulting them to fame. The prank involved asking police officers if they “wanted some coke,” which turned out to be Coca-Cola, not the illicit drug. This video went viral, attracting millions of views and sparking controversy.
Rise to Fame
NELK differentiated itself from other prank channels by incorporating a rebellious and unfiltered style. Their “Full Send” slogan became a brand identity, resonating with young audiences who enjoyed their audacious stunts and party-centric lifestyle. Over the years, their content evolved, incorporating party vlogs, travel adventures, and collaborations with celebrities.
By 2019, NELK had amassed millions of subscribers and established itself as one of the most popular YouTube prank channels. However, their content often faced demonetization from YouTube due to its controversial nature. This prompted Forgeard to explore alternative revenue streams.
The Birth of Full Send and Business Ventures
Full Send Brand
Recognizing the need for financial independence outside of YouTube’s monetization policies, Forgeard and the NELK team launched the Full Send brand, a lifestyle and apparel company. The brand quickly gained immense popularity, selling out within minutes of each drop. Full Send merchandise, including clothing, accessories, and exclusive collaborations, generated millions in revenue.
Full Send Podcast
In 2021, Forgeard launched the Full Send Podcast, featuring interviews with high-profile guests, including celebrities, athletes, and politicians. The podcast became an instant success, further expanding the NELK brand beyond YouTube.
Happy Dad Hard Seltzer
In addition to clothing and content creation, Forgeard entered the beverage industry with the launch of Happy Dad Hard Seltzer in 2021. The drink quickly gained traction, particularly among the younger demographic. Happy Dad set itself apart by offering a unique canned hard seltzer with a smooth taste and high-quality branding.
NFT Ventures and Crypto Involvement
In 2022, Kyle Forgeard and the NELK team ventured into the NFT space, launching the Full Send Metacard. The Metacard provided exclusive benefits to holders, such as access to special events, product drops, and more. This move positioned Full Send within the growing Web3 ecosystem, showcasing Forgeard’s ability to adapt to emerging digital trends.
Controversies and Challenges
YouTube Demonetization
NELK’s edgy and often controversial content led to multiple demonetizations on YouTube. The group faced restrictions and content removals, making it difficult to rely on YouTube ad revenue. However, this challenge pushed Forgeard to build alternative income streams, demonstrating his resilience as an entrepreneur.
Legal Issues and Bans
Forgeard and the NELK team have faced legal issues and bans from various locations due to their pranks. Some of their stunts resulted in fines or temporary arrests. Despite this, they continued to push boundaries, maintaining their commitment to entertaining their audience.
Criticism and Public Backlash
Like many internet personalities, Forgeard has faced criticism. Some argue that NELK’s content promotes reckless behavior, while others praise them for their originality. Nevertheless, Forgeard has remained unfazed, continuing to grow his brand and adapt to industry changes.
Personal Life and Net Worth
Lifestyle and Wealth
As of 2024, Kyle Forgeard’s net worth is estimated to be between $10 million and $20 million. His wealth comes from multiple sources, including:
- YouTube and social media sponsorships
- Full Send merchandise sales
- Happy Dad Hard Seltzer
- The Full Send Podcast
- NFT projects and investments
Forgeard enjoys a lavish lifestyle but remains focused on his business ventures. He frequently travels, attends high-profile events, and collaborates with influential figures.
Philanthropy and Giving Back
Despite his party-loving public persona, Forgeard has also engaged in charitable efforts. He has made significant donations, including gifting money to fans, supporting small businesses, and helping individuals in need. This aspect of his personality often surprises those who only associate him with wild stunts.
The Future of Kyle Forgeard
Expansion of Full Send
Kyle Forgeard continues to expand Full Send beyond YouTube. He has hinted at launching new products and potentially branching into entertainment, music, and sports ventures. His ability to evolve with changing digital trends suggests that Full Send will remain a dominant brand in the industry.
Continued Influence in Media
With the Full Send Podcast gaining mainstream popularity, Forgeard is solidifying his position as a media mogul. The podcast allows him to connect with influential figures and broaden his audience beyond prank lovers.
Investment in Tech and Crypto
Given his involvement in NFTs and Web3 projects, Forgeard may continue to explore investments in cryptocurrency, blockchain technology, and emerging digital markets. This would position him at the forefront of innovation in the creator economy.
FAQs
Q: Who is Kyle Forgeard?
A: Kyle Forgeard is a Canadian YouTuber, entrepreneur, and co-founder of NELK, a popular entertainment and prank channel. He is also behind the Full Send brand, which has expanded into merchandise, a podcast, and business ventures like Happy Dad Hard Seltzer.
Q: How did Kyle Forgeard become famous?
A: Kyle gained fame through NELK’s wild pranks, party lifestyle content, and viral videos on YouTube. His ability to push boundaries and create engaging content helped him build a massive following.
Q: What is Kyle Forgeard’s net worth?
A: While estimates vary, Kyle Forgeard’s net worth is believed to be in the tens of millions, largely due to NELK’s YouTube ad revenue, merchandise sales, and business ventures like Happy Dad Seltzer.
Q: Why did Kyle Forgeard step away from NELK videos?
A: In recent years, Kyle has focused more on expanding the Full Send brand and business side of NELK, leading to a reduced presence in prank videos. However, he remains deeply involved in the brand’s growth.
Q: What is Kyle Forgeard’s connection to celebrities and influencers?
A: Kyle has built relationships with high-profile figures, including Dana White, Donald Trump, Andrew Tate, and Joe Rogan. His podcast, Full Send Podcast, regularly features celebrity guests from various industries.
Conclusion
Kyle Forgeard’s journey from a college dropout to a digital mogul is an inspiring testament to the power of social media and entrepreneurship. Through NELK, Full Send, and other ventures, he has demonstrated an ability to adapt, innovate, and capitalize on emerging trends. Despite controversies and challenges, Forgeard remains a dominant force in digital entertainment, with no signs of slowing down.
As he continues to grow his brand and diversify his investments, Kyle Forgeard is likely to remain one of the most influential figures in the creator economy. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, proving that passion, resilience, and strategic thinking can lead to immense success in the digital age.
