With more than 11 million followers on social networks, Luis Castilleja — known as El Temach — is one of the central figures of the machosphere in Latin America. These are digital communities that promote masculinity based on anti-feminist discourses.
BBC Mundo documented the impact of its content, which under the “War Mode” philosophy promises to bring out the best version of its followers. Journalist Jacqui Wakefield investigated how these influencers conquer the internet.
The radical turn of Luis Castilleja
Alex, the YouTuber’s sister, told the media that Luis was previously an actor. During the pandemic and after a breakup, she began sharing advice on self-esteem. But that approach became radicalized.
“He got this Messiah complex, as if he were the one who had to fix it,” he said.
The young woman stated that the speech changed his behavior towards her, causing distance. “Anything I expressed… was taken as a feminist belief.”
Alex even revealed that Luis admitted to copying Andrew Tate, the British-American influencer known for his luxurious lifestyle and controversial comments about masculinity. In 2025, Tate faced indictments for alleged human trafficking and abuse crimes.
“Tate was super famous at that time and as he saw that it was working, he started to go further and further,” the sister mentioned.
Millionaire business based on controversy
The Temach generates profits with merchandise sales, millions of views, group mentoring and live events. It promotes the idea that men are discriminated against by social changes and gender policies. Its message combines exercise, discipline and self-care with a feeling of brotherhood.
Beyond monetization, the machosphere attracts millions of young people who invest time and money in discourses that impact their relationships and worldview.
