MrBeast and James Patterson to Co-Write Thriller Releasing in 2026

James Patterson and Jimmy “MrBeast” Donaldson are joining forces for a new thriller.

HarperCollins announced Monday that the bestselling author will team with the YouTube creator to co-write a novel set to be published in 2026. The untitled novel will be published by HarperCollins worldwide in English, as well as 14 languages through its Global Publishing Program.

HarperCollins describes the novel as “a high-octane, pulse-pounding thriller.” The synopsis reads as: “100 contestants compete in an extreme global competition as they fight to not only survive dangerous tests held in treacherous locations around the world but also prove their leadership skills. During each of the tests, relationships will grow, betrayals will cut deep, and more and more contestants will be eliminated. Or die. In the end, the one and only winner will receive one billion dollars.”

The novel marks MrBeast’s first foray into publishing. 

“One thought has driven my choices for the past couple of years: ‘My time here is short—what can I do most beautifully?’ I met Mr. Beast at his studio; we talked for several hours and settled on an idea we were incredibly excited to turn into a novel. I think it’s going to turn on readers all over the world,” Patterson said in a statement.

“I’m pumped to be teaming up with James, one of the best-selling authors of all time, on this action-packed story,” Donaldson added. “We’re both passionate about inspiring people around the world to read more, and I hope this also opens doors for other creators looking to get published.” 

Brian Murray, President and CEO of HarperCollins, said: “In the age of social media, storytelling has the power to travel the globe in an instant—and when the world’s No. 1 thriller writer and the No. 1 social media creator come together to write a book, it demands a global, simultaneous release, which HarperCollins is uniquely positioned to provide. We’re thrilled to be the publishing partner of James Patterson and MrBeast for this groundbreaking project, and proud to bring it to audiences in 15 languages.” 

The deal for world all language rights was negotiated by Murray and Liate Stehlik, President and Publisher of the William Morrow Group at HarperCollins, with Robert Barnett and Deneen Howell of Williams & Connolly representing Patterson, and Byrd Leavell and Albert Lee at UTA representing MrBeast. 

William Morrow will publish in the US, and HarperFiction in the UK.

With over 389 million subscribers, MrBeast became the most-subscribed YouTube channel in the world in June 2024 and now generates more than 2 billion views each month. The channel is known for its over-the-top stunts and contests. Last year, Donaldson released a Prime Video series called Beast Games.