Passes Denies Allegations of Underage Explicit Content and Launches Counteroffensive
Los Angeles, CA – Creator platform Passes has vehemently denied allegations of condoning underage explicit content and is pursuing legal action against those responsible for spreading what it calls a “false narrative.” The company, founded by tech entrepreneur Lucy Guo, issued a statement on March 14, 2025, outlining its commitment to creator safety and refuting claims made in a recent Florida lawsuit and subsequent media reports. Passes asserts that it maintains strict content moderation policies and actively removes any violations of its guidelines, which explicitly forbid the uploading of explicit material. The company emphasizes its “creator-first” ethos and its dedication to providing a safe platform for its users.
The controversy stems from a lawsuit filed in Florida, which Passes claims is based on a demand for millions of dollars that the company refused to pay. The lawsuit alleges that Passes encouraged the posting of explicit content, including material involving minors. Passes categorically denies these allegations, stating they are "recklessly disregard[ing] the truth." The company points to its robust content screening processes and insists it would never bypass these safeguards. Passes accuses the plaintiffs and their counsel of exploiting the media to damage the company’s reputation before it has the opportunity to defend itself in court.
Passes places the blame for the alleged misconduct on Alec Celestin, a talent manager, and his assistant, asserting that they were acting independently and deceiving the platform while violating its terms of service. The company has severed ties with Celestin and his agency and is considering legal action against them for their alleged actions and the subsequent spread of misinformation. Passes also suggests that competitors may be leveraging this situation as part of a smear campaign to undermine the company and its founder, Lucy Guo. The company finds it ironic that it is facing scrutiny for content moderation practices when some of its competitors allegedly lack comparable safeguards.
Passes highlights its proactive approach to content moderation, contrasting it with the alleged practices of some of its competitors. The company argues that it has clear rules regarding explicit content, which are communicated to both creators and fans. It underscores its commitment to maintaining a safe environment for its community of thousands of creators and takes its responsibility as a leading platform in the creator economy seriously. Passes views the current situation as a malicious attempt to tarnish its image and is committed to vigorously defending itself against these allegations.
The company’s statement emphasized its mission to empower creators by providing them with tools to monetize their content and connect with their fanbase. Passes offers various features, including live streams, direct messaging, exclusive podcasts, merchandise options, and gated content. The company has raised over $50 million in funding from prominent investors, including BOND capital, Abstract Ventures, Craft Ventures, and several high-profile individuals like Michael Ovitz, Emma and Jens Grede, Paris Hilton, and Jake Paul. This financial backing underscores the company’s perceived potential within the creator economy and its commitment to innovation in the space.
Passes believes this situation is an attempt to distract from its success and innovative approach to supporting creators. The company is confident that the legal process will exonerate them and expose the motivations behind these accusations. Passes remains dedicated to its mission of providing a safe and valuable platform for creators and their fans and is committed to clearing its name and holding accountable those responsible for spreading these allegations. The company encourages inquiries and further information requests to be directed to its media relations team.