DraftKings Co-founder Launched HardScope Channel

Matt Kalish has introduced a new YouTube venture focused on original creator-led programming.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Gambling

DraftKings Co-founder Launched HardScope Channel

Live Poll

Do you believe social media creators should hold equity in the content they produce?

DraftKings co-founder Matt Kalish has launched a new YouTube channel called HardScope. The initiative aims to provide content creators with ownership stakes in the intellectual property they help produce.

Why it matters

The platform seeks to offer personalities more creative freedom by allowing them to develop new formats outside of traditional constraints. It also marks a shift toward giving creators equity in their own projects.

HardScope has committed $4 million to develop its initial slate of four original series. The studio model specifically offers creators equity in the intellectual property they develop.

The players

Matt Kalish

He is a co-founder of the sports betting company DraftKings who has now shifted his focus to digital media and content creation.

HardScope

This is a new YouTube channel and media studio that provides creators with equity in the intellectual property they help develop.

FaZe Clan

This is a prominent professional esports and entertainment organization known for its roster of gaming personalities and content creators.

The details

The creative executive team behind the channel previously worked at FaZe Clan and is using that experience to help turn gaming personalities into broader entertainment draws. HardScope plans to eventually grow its brand through live events, merchandise, and licensing.

Matt Kalish co-founded DraftKings in 2012.
Four original series are scheduled to debut between September and November 2026.

Culture Shift

This venture aligns with the creator economy shift toward platform-independent intellectual property ownership as creators seek more control over their work. By granting equity stakes to talent, HardScope marks a departure from traditional work-for-hire studio models.

Audiences can expect the first round of original series to debut on the channel between September and November 2026. Viewers will likely see these creators expand their influence through future live events and merchandise associated with the new content.

The takeaway

The move demonstrates a growing industry emphasis on talent retention through equity-based compensation models. Creators looking to move beyond simple sponsorship deals may find this model provides a more sustainable path for long-term IP ownership.