Twitch streamer itsKatchii has been banned from the platform just days after making an offensive gesture during a livestream, a move that quickly ignited controversy across social media. This is not the first time itsKatchii has found herself at the center of controversy. In October 2024, the Twitch streamer appeared visibly intoxicated during the highly anticipated finale of the organization’s Top Streamer competition, sparking major backlash.

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On February 4, itsKatchii participated in a Chinese New Year celebration stream alongside members of OTK. However, during the event, she made an inappropriate salute that immediately drew criticism from viewers. The incident quickly spread online, leading to widespread backlash. The following morning, Katchii addressed the controversy and issued an apology, acknowledging that her actions were “insensitive and just plain dumb.” She also admitted that she was reconsidering her drinking habits, stating, “Now that I’m a public figure, I should be more responsible for what I say and do." She further stated that "it is hard being online, especially when you’re constantly compared and criticized for every single thing you do.”

Twitch Streamer itsKatchii Banned After Controversial Gesture Sparks Backlash

Just two days later, on February 6, Twitch took action, suspending Katchii from the platform. Upon attempting to access her channel, users were met with a ban message stating, “This channel is temporarily unavailable due to a violation of Twitch’s Community Guidelines or Terms of Service.” Following the suspension, Katchii took to social media to acknowledge the consequences of her actions. “Deserved. That was completely unacceptable and insensitive. It’s not funny, it’s not a joke, and it shouldn’t be normalized. I also realized I cannot handle alcohol in the slightest – I’m quitting,” she wrote. “Taking this time to reflect and be more mindful of my actions and the impact they have. To anyone I offended or disappointed, I’m sorry. See you in 7 days.”

ItsKatchii's ban comes just days after Twitch streamer DJ Akademiks disappeared from the platform after he received backlash from viewers and other streamers following Akademiks making crude and sexual comments to a 15-year-old streamer called NourGxd. Twitch has historically taken a firm stance against inappropriate interactions between streamers and underage users, enforcing strict policies against such conduct. One of the most notable instances involved Dr Disrespect, who was permanently banned from the platform after allegedly using Twitch's private messaging service to communicate with a minor. The platform’s zero-tolerance policy on sexually explicit interactions with minors suggests that streamers engaging in such behavior risk severe consequences, including permanent suspension.