When it comes to social media influencers, the Botero Family is thriving. Better known as Los Chicaneros, the Botero family of four is a hit across all social media with their candid, and funny, relatable skits. Their content, which focuses on everyday moments, has made them one of the most prominent content creators in the Spanish-speaking world. Some would say they’re the most famous family in Latin America. And they would be right.
“With over 17 million followers, the Los Chicaneros account has become the Spanish language’s most prominent content creator,” Hola magazine writes. “Their organic posts garner over 3 million views per video, proving their engaging and down-to-earth approach.”
But who are Los Chicaneros? And what is a “Chicanero”?
Meet Los Chicaneros: The Most Famous Family in Latin America
Los Chicaneros, originally from Colombia and now in Orlando, Fla., are made up of Antonia, Nicolás, María Cristina, Nelson, and their latest addition, Javier. What began as a fun way to share light-hearted moments with the world has now turned into a full-time endeavor that connects with millions of followers.
Their skits, which often poke fun at the exaggerated behavior of immigrants trying to impress those back home, have struck a chord with viewers who appreciate both the humor and the cultural commentary embedded in their videos.
The family’s success is not just measured in follower count but also in engagement. Their popularity has even caught the attention of major brands like Netflix, T-Mobile, and Universal Music, who have collaborated with them on various projects.
The Origins of the “Chicanero”
“Chicanero is a very Colombian term. It refers to a character who wants to show off and pretend to be what they are not. They say that they have money, travel a lot, etc.” Nicolás explains in an interview.
As Nelson, the father, explains, it’s about a character who brags about money, travel, and luxury, often just to impress others. The idea for Los Chicaneros’ content came from this concept, with the family creating skits that humorously depict immigrants who claim to have achieved extraordinary success in the U.S. after only a short time.
Nicolás, the eldest son, and Nelson were the masterminds behind the original idea. The channel initially focused on Nelson’s comedic persona as “El Chicanero,” but as the concept evolved, it became a family affair. The result is a channel that blends humor with cultural insight, offering viewers a comedic yet poignant look at the immigrant experience.
The Family Behind the Camera
Some would say that what sets Los Chicaneros apart is their natural talent for acting, despite having no formal training. Others would say it’s their humor. Whatever draws millions of fans, one thing is certain, the family’s chemistry is real. In their videos, each member brings their unique flair to the screen, allowed to shine thanks to their close family bond.
Nicolás, who often takes on the role of director, has a knack for guiding his family through scenes. While the family’s content appears effortless, there’s a significant amount of planning and effort behind each video. They say that they are perfectionists, carefully scripting, filming, and editing their skits to ensure the final product is of the highest quality. And their attention to detail has paid off, as their videos are consistently funny and relatable.
Sad News for the Family
As Los Chicaneros continue to grow their platform, they remain committed to their roots — creating content that is both entertaining and reflective of their Latino heritage. Their ability to connect with audiences through humor and authenticity has made them a powerful voice in the digital landscape. With the addition of Antonia’s husband Javier, the family’s dynamic continues to evolve.
Sadly, the couple recently announced the loss of their unborn baby.
“Thank you for coming into our lives to give us that touch in the soul that we so needed. Thank you for making us feel unique things, filling us with hope and genuine love. We are destroyed by your physical absence, but you will always be with us,” Antonia wrote.
Full of sadness, and love, the Botero family decided to have the baby’s name, Thiago, tattooed on their arms.
“This is a representation of the love … for the baby,” Maria Cristina said in their TikTok video at the tattoo parlor. The video have over 2 million views.
What the Future Holds
In a world where social media fame can be fleeting, Los Chicaneros have proven that staying true to oneself and one’s culture can create lasting connections. They’ve gone from a small family channel to social media stardom. It’s a dream come true.
“This is my and María Cristina’s dream since we married,” Nelson tells Hola magazine. “We always wanted to work together and raise the family together. This is a very great satisfaction for me. Maybe people say: ‘Oh, your kids are adults now, and they are still living in the house.’ And I think that I hope they never leave our house. The family is the main axis.”
When asked what the future holds, Nelson replies “to keep going and growing.”
