Markiplier takes an 8.5% stake as GoPro agrees to a $285 million Starman Optical merger

YouTube creator and director Markiplier has acquired an 8.5% stake in GoPro. The action-camera maker has entered a definitive agreement to merge with privately held Starman Optical in a transaction valued at $285 million.

Starman Optical describes itself as a U.S. optical-photonics company focused on developing and domestically manufacturing optical transceivers. Markiplier’s specific strategic role remains unclear, though possible directions include promoting new GoPro products or repositioning the brand toward filmmakers and cinematic production. The deal comes as GoPro faces competition from smartphones, drones, Insta360 and DJI.