Horror as streamer known for extreme challenges dies during live stream after 'days of torture and sleep deprivation'

Warning: This article contains distressing content

Jean Pormanove, whose real name was Raphael Graven, died aged 46 on Sunday night in a room rented for live streams in Contes near Nice, local prosecutors said.

He was known for his gaming live streams as well as extreme challenges alongside other streamers Naruto and Safine.

Officers were alerted after viewers on Kick reportedly became concerned when Pormanove appeared to be 'lying lifeless on a mattress covered with a duvet' in a chilling video.

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It is claimed he was not responding to the calls of his fellow streamers, with one heard saying: "He's really in a weird position," before the live abruptly ends.

An investigation is currently being carried out by officers to determine Pormanove's cause of death.

The prosecutor's office said in a statement: “At this stage, there is nothing suspicious, the hearings are in progress and an autopsy will be carried out."

Clara Chappaz, Minister in charge of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Affairs, said on X that Pormanove had been 'humiliated and mistreated directly on Kick for months' on X, confirming a judicial inquiry.

She added: "The death of Jean Pormanove and the violence he suffered are an absolute horror. I would like to extend all my condolences to his family and loved ones."

Sarah El Haïry, France's High Commissioner for Children, described the death as 'horrifying' on social media.

She wrote on X: "Platforms have an immense responsibility in regulating online content so that our children are not exposed to violent content. I call on parents to be extremely vigilant."

A spokesperson for Kick told the BBC they were 'urgently reviewing' the circumstances around Pormanove's death.

"We are deeply saddened by the loss of Jeanpormanove and extend our condolences to his family, friends and community," they said.

A spokesperson said the platform’s community guidelines were created to safeguard its creators, adding that Kick remained committed to enforcing these standards across the site.

Streamer Naruto announced Pormanove's death on Instagram, saying: "I've always dreaded the day I'd have to write these words.

"Sadly, last night, JP (Raphael Graven) left us. My brother, my sidekick, my partner, six years side by side, never letting go.

"I love you, my brother, and we will miss you terribly."

In January, Naruto and Safine were taken into custody by police on suspicion of violence against vulnerable people before being released, according to Le Parisien. They deny the allegations.

LBC has contacted Kick for comment.