Logan Paul Pledges $1 Million to Suicide Prevention Programs in New Video
Logan Paul is continuing to demonstrate his remorse after posting a video that appeared to make light of suicide nearly a month ago — this time, he's interviewed a survivor of suicide, listened to experts explain the nuances of mental health and pledged to aid in suicide prevention efforts, himself.
In a new video called "Suicide: Be Here Tomorrow" posted Wednesday (January 24) Paul says he's spent the past three weeks having tough conversations — including one with Kevin Hines, who survived a jump off of the Golden Gate Bridge — and that he's learned how delicate conditions like depression can be.
"I know I've made mistakes, I know I've let people down, but what happens when you're given an opportunity to help make a difference in the world?" he says in the clip above. "It's time to learn from the past as I get better and grow as a human being. I'm here to have a hard conversation so that those who are suffering can have easier ones."
Paul also speaks with experts like National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Director Dr. John Draper, who explains the best way to address someone who might be at risk of suicide is to first simply reach out to him or her.
Paul finally pledges $1 million to suicide prevention groups, and says he's committed to fighting for their efforts.
"I'm humbled and thankful to say this is just the beginning," he says.
Paul immediately came under fire — and was featured on national news segments — after posting a video on January 1 that he'd filmed in Japan's Aokigahara forest, which is infamously known as host to people who aim to commit suicide. The video features what appears to be a dead body, and Paul and his friends laughing and making jokes.
Paul has since posted an apology in which he said "I should've never posted the video...I do not deserve to be defended. I’m ashamed of myself. I’m disappointed in myself. And I promise to do better."
Nevertheless, YouTube has removed Paul's channels from Google Preferred, and said upcoming project have been temporarily suspended.
YouTube Stars Who Hit It Big: