James Somerton: Rise, Fall, and Legacy of a Controversial YouTube Creator

Introduction

James Somerton, also known by his online alias James of Telos, is a former Canadian YouTube creator who gained popularity for his thought-provoking video essays centered around media, queer representation, and pop culture analysis. With a growing audience, his content was appreciated for exploring LGBTQ+ themes, film theory, and societal issues in entertainment.

However, Somerton’s career took a dramatic turn in late 2023 when he became the subject of one of YouTube’s biggest plagiarism scandals. His rise to fame, followed by a rapid downfall, has become a case study in the importance of ethics, originality, and transparency in digital content creation. This article explores his career, controversies, and lasting impact on online media.

Quick Bio

• Full Name: James Somerton

• Nationality: Canadian

• Profession: Former YouTuber, Video Essayist, Media Commentator

• Known For: Video essays on queer representation in films, books, and pop culture

• YouTube Alias: James of Telos

• Notable Event: Plagiarism scandal exposed in December 2023

• Status: Inactive on YouTube after controversy

James Somerton’s Early Career and Rise to Popularity

Building a Platform for Queer Media Representation

James Somerton began his journey on YouTube around 2011, gradually building a community of viewers passionate about film theory, queer characters, and representation in mainstream media. His videos often analyzed how LGBTQ+ themes were portrayed in movies and literature, shedding light on hidden narratives and historical contexts.

As his audience grew, Somerton became known for his articulate storytelling and engaging editing style. His channel provided a safe space for many who felt underrepresented in mainstream discussions of media. By late 2023, he had accumulated hundreds of thousands of subscribers, making him a recognized figure in the online commentary sphere.

The Core Focus of His Content

Exploring Queer Theory Through Pop Culture

Somerton’s videos covered a wide range of topics, from queerbaiting in television shows to the evolution of queer villains in Disney films. His most well-known work included deep dives into horror movies and how LGBTQ+ characters were historically portrayed as monsters or outcasts.

By combining queer theory with accessible explanations, he introduced audiences to academic concepts in a relatable way. Many viewers appreciated his efforts to elevate conversations about representation, pushing for better and more authentic depictions of marginalized communities in entertainment.

The Plagiarism Scandal That Shook YouTube

The Allegations and Evidence

In December 2023, popular YouTuber Hbomberguy released a viral video titled “Plagiarism and You(Tube)”. This investigative piece accused James Somerton of widespread plagiarism, alleging that he copied passages from books, articles, and other creators without giving proper credit. The evidence presented was overwhelming, with side-by-side comparisons showing direct similarities between Somerton’s scripts and existing works.

The accusations quickly spread across social media, leading to intense backlash. Viewers, fans, and fellow creators expressed disappointment and anger, as Somerton had built his reputation on the idea of originality and thoughtful research.

Immediate Fallout and Response

Following the release of the exposé, James Somerton made all of his YouTube videos private. Attempts to address the scandal through statements or apologies were met with criticism, as many felt his responses lacked accountability.

The scandal not only damaged his personal reputation but also sparked broader conversations about plagiarism on digital platforms. Content creators were urged to practice transparency and credit their sources properly to maintain trust with their audiences.

The End of an Online Career

Vanishing from the Digital Space

By early 2024, Somerton’s YouTube channel was completely inactive. His Patreon and social media accounts were either deleted or set to private. Many of his former fans moved on to other creators who offered similar insights but with proper attribution and fact-checking.

His sudden disappearance left a void in the niche of queer media analysis. While some viewers missed his unique storytelling style, most agreed that the plagiarism had irreparably damaged his credibility.

Attempts to Rebuild Outside of YouTube

In 2025, reports emerged that Somerton had tried to reinvent himself as a photographer, launching a wedding photography business under the name Memory Media. However, controversy followed once again when it was discovered that promotional images on his website were stock photos, raising questions about authenticity. This brief comeback attempt quickly ended after more criticism surfaced.

Legacy of James Somerton

Lessons Learned from a Public Downfall

James Somerton’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of integrity in the digital age. His rise showed how online platforms can elevate marginalized voices and foster meaningful conversations about representation. His fall demonstrated how unethical practices can destroy years of hard work overnight.

Creators and audiences alike now place greater emphasis on proper sourcing and ethical content creation. Somerton’s case has also influenced discussions about accountability on YouTube, prompting the platform and viewers to scrutinize creators more carefully.

Conclusion

James Somerton’s career is a tale of both inspiration and caution. He began as a promising voice for queer representation, captivating audiences with his in-depth analysis and unique perspective. However, his legacy is overshadowed by one of the most notable plagiarism scandals in recent YouTube history.

While his online presence has largely vanished, the conversations sparked by his rise and fall continue to shape the world of digital media. Future creators can learn from his mistakes by prioritizing originality, transparency, and accountability in their work.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is James Somerton?

James Somerton is a former Canadian YouTuber known for creating video essays on queer representation in films and popular culture. He gained popularity for his thoughtful commentary before facing a major plagiarism scandal in 2023.

Why did James Somerton leave YouTube?

He left YouTube after a widely publicized plagiarism scandal exposed by fellow creator Hbomberguy. Following intense backlash, Somerton made his videos private and eventually disappeared from the platform.

What type of content did James Somerton create?

His videos focused on queer history, LGBTQ+ representation, and media criticism. Topics included queerbaiting in TV shows and the portrayal of queer villains in Disney movies.

What can other creators learn from James Somerton’s downfall?

His story emphasizes the importance of originality and proper crediting. Plagiarism not only damages a creator’s reputation but also erodes audience trust and community integrity.

Is James Somerton still active online?

As of 2025, James Somerton remains inactive on YouTube and other major platforms. Attempts to rebrand himself outside of YouTube have also been unsuccessful.

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