STAMPY

Stampy: The Endearing Minecraft Maestro of YouTube

Early Life and Education

Joseph Mark Garrett, widely recognized by his online persona "Stampy," was born on December 13, 1990, in Havant, Hampshire, England. His father, a graphic designer, contributed to the artwork for Stampy's channel, merchandise, and book illustrations, while his mother, Katherine, served as a moderator for his social media pages. Joseph has two older sisters: Rachael, a graphic artist who collaborates with their father, and Annette, known online as Netty, who previously ran her own YouTube channel, NettyPlays, and is married to Yogscast member Martyn Littlewood. 

After completing his schooling, Garrett pursued TV and video production studies at Southampton Solent University. During his time there, he worked as a barman in a local pub. His academic background laid the foundation for his future endeavors in content creation. 

YouTube Career and Rise to Fame

Garrett launched his first YouTube channel, "stampylongnose," on August 3, 2006, initially uploading comedic skits and animations. As the popularity of Let's Play videos grew, he transitioned to gaming content, focusing on titles like Call of Duty and Halo. This shift led to a collaboration with GamesThirst, where he created game reviews, honing his commentary skills. 

In 2011, Garrett introduced a new channel, "stampylonghead," dedicated to Let's Play videos, particularly Minecraft. His series "Stampy's Lovely World" became a massive hit, captivating a younger audience with its engaging storytelling and family-friendly content. By 2014, his channel ranked among the top ten most-watched globally. 

Diversifying Content and Collaborations

Beyond his primary channel, Garrett expanded his creative horizons. In collaboration with Maker Studios and Disney, he launched "Wonder Quest" in 2015, an educational Minecraft series designed for classroom use. The show combined entertainment with learning, featuring characters like Wizard Keen and addressing various educational topics. 

Garrett also ventured into podcasting with "The Bonus Points," discussing and ranking new video games alongside his longtime friend Oli Guy. This diversification showcased his versatility and commitment to engaging content across platforms. 

Personal Life

In his personal life, Garrett married fellow YouTuber Kye Bates, known online as Sqaishey Quack, on July 28, 2019. The couple collaborated on various projects and shared their lives with fans. However, in January 2025, Bates announced their separation, marking the end of their partnership. 

Legacy and Impact

Garrett's influence extends beyond YouTube. He authored two children's books, "Stampy's Lovely Book" and "Stampy Cat: Stick with Stampy!," further solidifying his role as a prominent figure in children's entertainment. In 2018, he set a Guinness World Record for the fastest time to make and display ten cakes in Minecraft. 

As of September 2024, his "stampylonghead" channel boasts over 10.8 million subscribers and 8.1 billion views, reflecting his enduring popularity and the lasting impact of his content. 

Conclusion

Joseph Garrett, aka Stampy, has left an indelible mark on the digital landscape through his innovative and engaging content. His dedication to creating family-friendly entertainment has resonated with audiences worldwide, making him a beloved figure in the gaming and YouTube communities.