John Allen (born October 1, 1988), most famously known as MrBallen, is an American internet personality, storyteller, and former Navy SEAL. He is widely recognized for his true crime stories and mysteries, which he shares on YouTube, TikTok, and in his podcasts. MrBallen medically retired from the Navy in 2017 after being wounded in Afghanistan. He launched his YouTube channel in 2020 and gained significant popularity for his unique storytelling style, which brought a fresh narrative to social media. As of February 2026, his YouTube channel boasts over 10 million subscribers.
MrBallen is the host of the "MrBallen Podcast: Strange, Dark & Mysterious Stories." In September 2023, he launched a second podcast, "MrBallen's Medical Mysteries". Beyond content creation, Allen co-founded Ballen Studios, a production company, and the MrBallen Foundation, which supports victims and families affected by violent crimes. In late January 2026, MrBallen was announced as a featured talent for Podcast Movement Evolutions at SXSW in March 2026. He also released his first book, a graphic novel titled "MrBallen Presents: Strange, Dark & Mysterious," on October 1, 2024.
