What Was Beme and Who Founded It?
Beme was a short-form video-sharing app founded by filmmaker Casey Neistat and developer Matt Hackett in 2015. The app was designed to remove filters and editing tools, encouraging raw, unpolished video uploads with a focus on authenticity. Beme quickly gained attention in the social media space, drawing comparisons to platforms like Vine and Snapchat by offering a minimalist interface for quick video sharing.
The platform was developed by the media company Beme Inc., which Casey Neistat co-founded. Beme Inc. operated the app and its associated creative tools, positioning the service as a direct competitor to emerging short-video networks. The app reached the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, targeting a young demographic interested in real-time, first-person content sharing without heavy post-production.
CNN Acquisition and the End of Beme
In August 2016, CNN acquired Beme Inc. for a reported sum of $25 million, with the goal of integrating Neistat’s creative talent into its digital video strategy. The deal was seen as a major move by Turner Broadcasting and CNN to capture younger audiences on mobile-first platforms. Casey Neistat and his team joined CNN Digital Studios, where they were expected to produce innovative video content for the network’s online properties.
Despite the acquisition, Beme was shut down in January 2017, less than a year after the deal closed. CNN officially ended the Beme app and redirected users to CNN’s own platforms. Casey Neistat later confirmed the shutdown, stating that the original vision for Beme as an independent community did not align with CNN’s corporate structure. The closure marked the end of Beme as a standalone product, though its team continued working within CNN’s digital video division.
Casey Neistat’s Career After Beme
After Beme was discontinued, Casey Neistat returned to independent filmmaking and YouTube, where he had already built a massive following. He continued producing daily vlogs and short films, maintaining a presence on platforms like YouTube and Instagram. Neistat’s post-Beme career focused on personal projects, brand collaborations, and advocacy for creative freedom in digital media.
Neistat’s influence in the creator economy remained significant, with his YouTube channel amassing millions of subscribers and his videos generating billions of views. He has been involved in various ventures, including product design and public commentary on technology and social media. Beme’s legacy persists as a case study in social media acquisitions, illustrating the challenges of integrating independent creator-driven platforms into large media corporations.
Key Facts About Beme and Casey Neistat
Beme App Launch and Shutdown Timeline
Beme launched in July 2015 and was acquired by CNN in August 2016. The app was officially shut down in January 2017, with its services discontinued and users redirected elsewhere.
Acquisition Details
CNN acquired Beme Inc. for a reported $25 million, integrating the team into CNN Digital Studios. The acquisition was part of a broader strategy to expand CNN’s mobile video offerings.
Casey Neistat’s Post-Beme YouTube Growth
After Beme, Casey Neistat’s YouTube channel continued to grow, with his content focusing on filmmaking, daily vlogs, and social commentary. He remains one of the most recognized independent creators in the digital space.
Beme’s Role in Short-Form Video History
Beme was one