EA Creator Network Leak: Internal Letter Addresses lilsimsie's Stream, the Buyout Petition, and Creators' Right to Stay Silent
On the same day that former Creator Network member lilsimsie held a high‑profile livestream about EA’s acquisition deal, an internal message sent to franchise partners leaked online. In it, Electronic Arts directly addresses the controversial petition for the first time and gives content creators an unexpected piece of advice: “Take space if things feel overwhelming.”
Earlier, we covered the petition against the EA buyout and how lilsimsie left the Creator Network back in October 2025.
Details of Lilsimsie's Livestream
On April 15, 2026, lilsimsie’s Twitch channel hosted a livestream dedicated to the impending acquisition of EA by an investor consortium led by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). US Congressman Maxwell Frost took part. The goal was to raise awareness of the deal’s potential consequences and encourage players to sign a petition calling for it to be blocked.
The stream took place amid widespread discontent: many content creators have already left EA’s partner program, and players fear that a change of ownership could affect the franchise’s core values.
What the Leaked Message Says
The letter, posted on X by user @lunar_briney, was sent to members of the EA Creator Network – the partnership program for Sims content creators. In it, EA community managers address creators ahead of lilsimsie’s stream.
“We’re aware of a planned livestream today discussing EA’s agreement to be acquired. Moments like this can bring attention and opinions across social channels, and we want to make sure you feel supported.”
The letter then emphasises that the team’s creative control and values (inclusivity, choice, creativity, community, and play) remain unchanged. This echoes earlier public statements from Maxis, in which the studio assured players that “The Sims’ values will not change” after the change of ownership.
But the most surprising passage gives creators permission to completely distance themselves from the conversation.
“You will always be free to express your honest opinions if you choose to, but it’s also completely okay if you’d prefer to step back from the conversation entirely.”
Creators are advised to:
- Let people know they don’t have additional information to share
- Direct them to official Sims channels
- “Take space if things feel overwhelming”
And the key line: “Above all, our goal is to make sure you’re not put in a position where you feel responsible for explaining or defending anything related to this moment.”
Community Reaction
The leak drew mixed responses. Some players saw the letter as support and concern for creators’ mental health. Others interpreted it as an attempt to silence critics and steer the conversation away without answering real questions about the deal’s consequences.
In the comments on Sims Community, one user wrote: “‘Take space’ is a nice way of saying ‘keep your head down.’” Another said: “They just want creators to shut up until the deal is closed.”
Still, some supported EA’s stance: “At least they acknowledge it’s a difficult time and aren’t forcing creators to be company mouthpieces.”
Context: The Petition, the Livestream, and Creator Departures
The petition against the EA buyout was launched by the Players Alliance. It calls on regulators to block the $55 billion deal, fearing that the new owner could influence EA’s independence and values.
The lilsimsie stream featuring Congressman Frost was a significant event for the community. It drew political attention to the issue and gave players a chance to ask questions directly to an elected official.
Notably, lilsimsie herself left the EA Creator Network back in October 2025, stating that she “could not support a direct association with the company” after news of the buyout broke. Dozens of other major creators, including James Turner, followed her lead.
What’s Next?
The leaked letter shows that EA is aware of the community’s deep concern and is trying to balance partner support with maintaining control of the narrative. On one hand, the company gives creators freedom of speech. On the other, it gently nudges them not to dig too deep into the discussion.
EA has not officially commented on the leak. The deal is not yet closed – it is expected to finalise in April–June 2026, pending all necessary regulatory approvals.
