Louis Theroux’s recent exploration on Netflix, titled “Inside the Manosphere,” delved into the rise of the ultra-masculine network led by influencers like self-proclaimed misogynist Andrew Tate. In a BBC World Service documentary called “Manosphere Messiahs,” disinformation reporter Jacqui Wakefield investigated the impact of manosphere heavyweights such as El Temach (Luis Castilleja) in Mexico and Andrew Kibe in Kenya. El Temach boasts over 7.3 million TikTok followers and 2 million Instagram followers, while Andrew Kibe has 464,000 Instagram followers and 530 million TikTok views.
According to Wakefield, content creators in developing countries are inspired by the success of figures like Andrew Tate, aspiring to attain the fame, wealth, and influence associated with their online personas. She noted the adoption of manosphere slang terms popularized by Andrew Tate, who is currently embroiled in allegations, including involvement with a minor. Wakefield questioned whether influencers like former DJ Kibe genuinely believe in the rhetoric they promote or if they are merely seeking to expand their follower base.
The documentary highlighted the significant negative impact reported by women influenced by the manosphere ideologies. In Kenya, student Joy revealed that female candidates running for the student union required a male student to accompany them to enhance their chances of election, indicating a worsening situation. Followers of Kibe were described as perceiving women as less competent and unworthy of leadership roles.
Dr. Awino Okech, a professor of Feminist Studies at SOAS University, emphasized the social challenges faced by men and boys attracted to figures like Kibe, particularly in environments with high unemployment rates and limited resources for personal development. She highlighted the tendency of these individuals to blame women for societal issues instead of addressing systemic problems.
The documentary also featured testimonies from individuals affected by the manosphere teachings. Fernanda from Mexico City shared her distressing experience with a former boyfriend influenced by El Temach’s content, leading to controlling behavior and threats of violence. The story underscored the dangerous consequences of extremist ideologies propagated by online influencers.
Jacqui Wakefield concluded that social media platforms have become breeding grounds for misogyny on a global scale, highlighting the alarming growth of such ideologies. The documentary “Manosphere Messiahs” is accessible on BBC Sounds, offering further insights into the impact of these online movements.