Meet IMAQTPIE: From Pro Player to Streaming Sensation
Michael “IMAQTPIE” Santana, former AD Carry for Team Dignitas, has become one of the biggest stars on Twitch. His show Beyond the Rift, co-hosted by William “Scarra” Li, is a hit among viewers with its live episodes on Twitch and YouTube uploads. With over 1.4 million followers and millions of viewable hours per month, IMAQTPIE makes a staggering $2 million a year from his Twitch channel, compared to the $30,000 he was making as a pro player annually. Game companies are willing to pay him up to $7,000 per hour to stream their games, further showcasing his success in the streaming world.
Twitch Celebrities: A New Generation
IMAQTPIE is not the only Twitch superstar. Twitch has given rise to thousands of celebrities, but this new generation of streamers is unique. Lirik and Sodapoppin, both hugely popular streamers, have cultivated their brands alongside the growth of Twitch. What sets IMAQTPIE apart is his potential to transcend the streaming world and become a household name, much like YouTube superstar PewDiePie. He is also part of a first generation of entertainers that has successfully merged the esports and streaming audiences, making his success even more remarkable.
IMAQTPIE: More than Just a Player
While it’s IMAQTPIE’s exceptional gameplay that draws fans in, it’s his personality that keeps them coming back. With his self-deprecating humor and candid remarks, viewers relate to him on a personal level. His Twitch community, called the Big D**k Club, is a testament to his persona. And let’s not forget his iconic white shirt, which he wears in almost every broadcast. It’s his laid-back attitude and relatability that make him such a standout streamer.
IMAQTPIE’s Journey: The Future Awaits
Despite his immense success, IMAQTPIE still longs for his pro player days and often jokes about making a comeback. He dreams of forming his ultimate team with top players like Faker and Smeb. However, he acknowledges the opportunities he has as a streamer and the potential of his career beyond gaming. He’s grateful for the support from his community and is thrilled to explore new creative avenues, such as his talk show Beyond the Rift.
IMAQTPIE’s daily routine remains unchanged, apart from his streaming sessions. He values living in the present and enjoying what he does. While other streamers dedicate time to the business side of streaming, IMAQTPIE prefers to focus on having fun and creating content for his viewers. His relaxed approach has proven successful, and he hopes to continue pushing the boundaries of his streaming career.
“If people like me, great. If they don’t, that’s great too.”
Key+:
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