Using the example of funk reports, this work examines which factors influence the reach of journalistic YouTube videos. The research is prompted by the strong use of the platform as a news source for young people, as well as the ongoing debate about algorithmic preference for advertising-friendly content through the YouTube adpocalypse. Articles and anecdotal evidence on the topic suggest that there is a conflict between the mandate of journalistic outlets, and the interests of YouTube as an advertising-funded platform. This paper attempts to establish an empirical basis for the discussion about the reach of videos on YouTube.