Throughout history, the allure of money has driven individuals to perform extraordinary and sometimes bizarre feats. From outlandish stunts to participating in strange experiments, here are some of the craziest things people have done for the sake of financial gain.

1. The “Rent-a-Friend” Business

In Japan, some people have turned loneliness into a lucrative business. Companies offer services where individuals can rent a friend for a day. These hired friends attend events, accompany clients on outings, or simply provide companionship to combat the isolation epidemic in urban Japan.

2. Selling Ad Space on the Human Body

In a unique form of advertising, some individuals have offered their bodies as literal billboards. Tattooing brand logos or website URLs on their skin has earned them quick cash, turning their bodies into walking advertisements.

3. Extreme Endurance Challenges

People have pushed their physical limits in various ways to earn money. Whether it’s enduring intense heat, extreme cold, or enduring sleep deprivation for days on end, individuals participate in challenges or competitions with cash prizes that reward those who can withstand the most extreme conditions.

4. Participation in Dangerous Stunts

The allure of fame and fortune has led some to perform life-threatening stunts. From tightrope walking between skyscrapers without safety harnesses to attempting death-defying jumps, the promise of financial gain has driven daredevils to take extraordinary risks.

5. Eating Contests

Competitive eating has gained popularity as a way to make money. Participants consume copious amounts of food within a limited timeframe for cash prizes. These contests often involve eating astonishing quantities of hot dogs, pies, or other foods.

6. Donating Bodily Fluids

While donating blood and plasma is a common way to earn money, some individuals take it to the next level by donating other bodily fluids, like sperm or eggs, in exchange for substantial compensation.

7. Becoming a Human Guinea Pig

Medical research studies frequently recruit participants to test new drugs, medical procedures, or treatments. These studies often come with significant financial incentives, but they can also involve substantial risks and unknown side effects.

8. Joining Reality TV Shows

Some individuals are willing to endure humiliation and scrutiny on reality TV shows in the hopes of winning substantial cash prizes or securing a shot at fame. From eating bizarre foods to enduring isolation on a remote island, the lengths contestants will go to are truly astonishing.