Pokimane says an emotional goodbye to Twitch
Although Twitch was once the true champion of the streaming world, it now seems that that title is up in the air. The streaming platform has been jolted at its foundations by erratic changes to its terms of service and new competitors like Kick and Rumble squeaking out from under the woodwork.
Competitors have lured streamers in with hundred-million-dollar deals and, in Rumble's case, total freedom of speech, whatever the cost. Twitch is the jumping-off point for many, but all sorts of streamers in all sorts of genres have defected as its reputation begins to fold.
And now, one of the platform's most well-known streamers has said a fond farewell to the site. We never thought this day would come, but Imane "Pokimane" Anys is officially saying goodbye to Twitch.
Pokimane leaves Twitch in final stream
After announcing the "end of an era," Pokimane has packed it up and moved on from streaming on Twitch. The news comes after Pokimane mentioned in 2022 that streaming on the platform wasn't "creatively fulfilling," and after she had to apologise for insensitive comments around backlash to her cookie company.
Despite the controversy, the streamer has been a long-standing icon of the platform, to such a degree that her face is featured in the App Store advertising for Twitch itself. But as Poki shares the image herself on Twitter, she reveals that she's ready to move on.
"Twitch has been my home for a decade… but it’s time to say thank you for all the memories and love during my League, Fortnite & Among Us days." It comes after she downplayed rumours and suggested she wouldn't be leaving Twitch anytime soon.
Twitch responds to Pokimane’s departure
In a sweet tweet, Twitch itself has come forward to comment on the long-awaited (yet still shocking) departure of Pokimane. "What an incredible journey it’s been," responded the official Twitch account. "We’re so proud of everything you’ve accomplished and what’s ahead in the future. You’ll always have a home on Twitch, Poki."
"STOP DON’T MAKE ME CRY MORE," Pokimane replied, and with that, her time on the platform comes to an end. There's no word on what she'll do next, but one thing's for sure - fans are feeling the loss right now. Arrivederci, Poki.
