In a new three-part White Chair Film from global storytelling organization I Am Second, Tyler Toney, one of the five co-founders of YouTube sensation “Dude Perfect,” and his wife Bethany openly discuss the challenges that followed their whirlwind ascension into the spotlight. In the series of films, “Not as Easy as it Looks,” the couple discusses marriage, family and work-life balance, friendship, resentment, fulfillment and purpose.
“His success really took off at a time when I felt like God was calling us to start a family.” Several miscarriages took place. Bethany was heartbroken, confused, and angry, while Tyler was “on top of the world” with Dude Perfect’s success.
God got some of that anger directed at him, too. “I just felt like God was ignoring me,” confesses Bethany. “Christ was not first in our marriage. Dude Perfect was first in our marriage.”
Looking back, Tony admits “Early on, I think our families kind of got put on the back burner,” adding, “I was not the husband to Bethany that I needed to be. I was not the dad to my kids that I needed to be.”
In the 3-part free video series at I Am Second and on YouTube, you’ll learn how God spoke to their hearts and transformed their marriage.
Famously known for its unique trick shots and comedy reels, the five members and friends who make up Dude Perfect rose to prominence seemingly overnight after their initial backyard trick shot video went viral in 2009. Eventually, with the approval of their families, each of the “dudes” quit their full-time jobs and committed to the Dude Perfect brand full-time. Since then, it has grown into a global phenomenon reaching millions of fans worldwide with its epic antics and global adventures.
The film series shares both Tyler’s and Bethany’s perspective on their relationship during the growth of Dude Perfect and a behind-the-scenes look at hardships faced by this couple while their lives were turned upside down.
“We took that leap of faith,” Bethany recalls. “[We] chose adventure; [we] chose fun—which I think is so telling as to how our life has spun out since then.”
The series was released in three parts, including:
- Episode 1: In the Toney’s first episode, Tyler and Bethany share about Dude Perfect’s rapid rise to fame, the joy Bethany noticed within Tyler and the bitterness in her own heart that began to take root.
- Episode 2: The second episode in the series covers the heartbreak, grief and loneliness that entered into the Toney’s marriage as a result of Tyler’s absence due to his involvement in the business.
- Episode 3: The final episode brings forth the profound redemption story that began in Tyler’s heart, ultimately transforming his marriage, his family, his relationship with faith and his life altogether.
"I have this overwhelming sense that this is what I am supposed to be doing...To see that come full circle was incredible,” said Tyler. “For Dude Perfect this is an opportunity to reach people, to reach families, especially young boys who may not have a lot to look up to or may not get a sense of community from anywhere else in their lives. We feel this immense amount of responsibility to them, to keep doing this and take this as long as God allows us this platform to continue to do the things we love to do.”
Amazing things continue happening for Dude Perfect itself. There are plans for a $100 million theme park. Here’s their video announcement.
About I Am Second
I Am Second is a nonprofit launched in 2008 that ignites hope and inspires people to live for God and for others. Its website, iamsecond.com, features written and film-based stories of more than 150 athletes, actors, models, musicians, cultural influencers and everyday people who have stepped in front of the camera and declared, “I Am Second.” For information, visit iamsecond.com.