From Gaming's Most Toxic Player to Twitch Royalty: The Unlikely Success Story That Broke Records
Tyler Steinkamp might not be a name you immediately recognize, but mention "Tyler1" in any gaming circle and you'll likely get an instant reaction. This 30-year-old Missouri native has become one of the most polarizing yet beloved figures in the streaming world, building a massive following through his unapologetically intense approach to League of Legends content.
The path to Tyler1's current success wasn't straightforward. Back in 2016, he earned the dubious honor of being called "The Most Toxic Player in North America" after Riot Games handed him an indefinite ban from League of Legends. His aggressive behavior toward teammates and notorious "int list" - a actual roster of players he'd intentionally sabotage if matched with them - made him gaming's most controversial figure. Yet somehow, this toxicity became part of his brand, drawing viewers who were fascinated by his unfiltered reactions and explosive personality.
When Tyler1 returned to League of Legends in 2018 after successfully appealing his ban, the gaming world was watching. His comeback stream shattered records, peaking at over 382,000 concurrent viewers - a non-tournament record that highlighted just how much anticipation had built around his return. His preferred champion, Draven, perfectly mirrors his personality: flashy, aggressive, and demanding attention. This wasn't coincidence but rather Tyler1 understanding exactly what his audience wanted to see.
Beyond the screaming and chair-throwing that made him internet famous, Tyler Steinkamp has built a genuine media empire. His YouTube channel boasts over 2.7 million subscribers, and his Twitch following has grown to more than 5 million people. He's not just about League anymore either - his content has expanded, and he's even collaborated with major creators like MrBeast. His personal life has stabilized too; he's been dating Macaiyla since 2016, and they welcomed their first daughter in April 2024.
Today's Tyler1 represents something unique in streaming culture. Despite his past controversies, he's maintained his position as one of Twitch's most-watched creators, currently ranking 86th on the platform in 2025. His peak viewership hit nearly 145,000 viewers just this past January, proving his audience remains as dedicated as ever. What started as controversy has evolved into a legitimate entertainment brand, showing how the streaming landscape can transform even the most unlikely personalities into major content creators.