Julio Macias has emerged as one of the most compelling talents in the entertainment industry, captivating audiences with his dynamic performances and charismatic presence. Best known for his role as Oscar “Spooky” Diaz in the hit Netflix series On My Block, Macias has become a household name, particularly among fans of the coming-of-age drama.
His journey from Mexico City to Hollywood is a testament to his dedication, versatility, and passion for storytelling. This article delves into Macias’s life, career, personal endeavors, and the questions fans are asking about him, particularly regarding his YouTube presence and recent activities, based on the latest information available as of July 2025.
Early Life and Background
Julio Macias was born on March 20, 1990, in Mexico City, Mexico, to Aida Lourdes Macias and an unnamed father. Growing up in a vibrant, culturally rich environment, Macias was exposed to the arts from an early age. His mother owned a dubbing company, which sparked his interest in performance and storytelling. This early exposure to the entertainment industry planted the seeds for his future career. As a child, Macias participated in school plays and local theater productions, showcasing a natural flair for acting that would later define his professional path.
Move to the United States
At the age of eight, Macias and his family relocated to Los Angeles, California, a move that significantly shaped his career trajectory. The transition from Mexico City to Los Angeles introduced him to a new cultural landscape, but he quickly adapted, immersing himself in the city’s diverse artistic community.
Macias attended a local high school in Los Angeles, where he continued to hone his acting skills through drama clubs and school productions. His passion for the craft led him to pursue higher education at the University of California, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts in 2011. To further refine his skills, he studied at the prestigious Square Theatre School in New York, solidifying his commitment to becoming a professional actor.
Career Beginnings and Breakthrough
Macias’s journey to stardom was not without its challenges. After completing his education, he began his acting career with small roles in short films and television series. In 2014, he landed a role as Poncho in the TV mini-series La Vida Es Como El Cine, marking his television debut. While these early projects provided valuable experience, they were modest in scope, and Macias faced the typical struggles of an aspiring actor in a competitive industry. He also co-wrote and starred in the 2014 horror short Obsidian, showcasing his versatility as not only an actor but also a writer and producer. These early endeavors demonstrated his willingness to take on diverse roles and explore different facets of filmmaking.
Breakthrough with On My Block
Macias’s big break came in 2018 when he was cast as Oscar “Spooky” Diaz in Netflix’s On My Block. The series, a coming-of-age drama set in a Los Angeles neighborhood, follows a group of friends navigating the challenges of adolescence, gang culture, and personal identity. Macias’s portrayal of Spooky, a complex gang leader with a tough exterior but a deeply human core, resonated with audiences and critics alike.
His ability to bring depth and authenticity to the character earned him widespread acclaim and a loyal fan base. The show’s success propelled Macias into the spotlight, establishing him as a rising star in Hollywood. On My Block ran for four seasons, concluding in 2021, and remains a significant milestone in Macias’s career.
Other Notable Roles
Beyond On My Block, Macias has appeared in several other television series and films, showcasing his versatility. He played Pete Astudillo in the Netflix series Selena: The Temperatures, a biographical drama about Selena Quintanilla. Other credits include guest roles in Game Shakers, Jane the Virgin, and S.W.A.T., as well as the film SinVerguenzas. These roles, while smaller, allowed Macias to demonstrate his range as an actor, taking on characters that varied in tone and complexity. His continued work in both television and film highlights his ability to adapt to different genres and narratives.
YouTube Presence and Fan Engagement
One of the most common questions fans ask on Google is whether Julio Macias has an active YouTube presence. As of July 2025, there is no verified information indicating that Julio Macias maintains an official YouTube channel. Unlike many celebrities who use YouTube to share vlogs, behind-the-scenes content, or personal projects, Macias appears to focus his online presence primarily on social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter (X). However, fans can find numerous videos related to Macias on YouTube, including interviews, fan-made content, and clips from his projects.
YouTube Interviews and Appearances
Macias has appeared in several YouTube videos, particularly interviews and promotional content for On My Block and Selena: The Series. For example, YouTube channels like Netflix and entertainment outlets such as PopBuzz and Young Hollywood have posted interviews where Macias discusses his role as Spooky, his acting process, and his experiences on set. These videos are popular among fans, with many expressing surprise at Macias’s real-life persona, which contrasts with Spooky’s tough demeanor. A 2020 Reddit post on the On My Block subreddit highlights this sentiment, with fans commenting, “That’s Spooky?! He looks and sounds like a completely different person!”
Fan-Made Content and Tributes
YouTube is also home to a variety of fan-made content, including tribute videos, edits, and reaction videos focused on Macias’s performances. Channels dedicated to On My Block fan content often feature compilations of Spooky’s best moments, showcasing Macias’s ability to steal scenes with his intense yet nuanced portrayal. These videos have garnered thousands of views, reflecting Macias’s popularity and the cultural impact of his work. While Macias himself does not produce this content, his performances inspire a significant amount of fan engagement on the platform.
Social Media as a Primary Platform
Although Macias does not have a dedicated YouTube channel, he actively engages with fans on Instagram (@julio_macias) and Twitter (@JulioMacias), where he shares updates about his projects, personal insights, and behind-the-scenes glimpses. His social media presence serves as a primary avenue for fan interaction, with posts often generating significant engagement. For fans seeking video content, YouTube remains a valuable resource for accessing interviews, trailers, and fan-made videos, even if Macias is not directly involved in their creation.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Julio Macias is married to makeup artist Shannon Schotter, with whom he has been in a relationship for several years. The couple often appears together at events, including red-carpet premieres and industry gatherings. Schotter’s work as a makeup artist complements Macias’s career in the entertainment industry, and their partnership is frequently highlighted in media coverage. Fans admire their supportive relationship, often commenting on their chemistry in social media posts.
Philanthropic Causes
Macias is passionate about several philanthropic causes, including education, social justice, and environmental sustainability. His commitment to education stems from his own experiences as a first-generation immigrant pursuing higher education in the United States. He supports initiatives that promote access to quality education for underserved communities.
Additionally, Macias advocates for social justice, particularly issues affecting the Latinx community, such as representation in media and equal opportunities. His interest in environmental sustainability reflects his desire to contribute to a healthier planet, aligning with broader Hollywood trends toward eco-conscious activism.
Recent Projects and Career Developments
Since the conclusion of On My Block in 2021, Macias has continued to build his career with diverse roles and projects. His role in Selena: The Series (2020-2021) as Pete Astudillo, a close friend and bandmate of Selena Quintanilla, further showcased his ability to portray real-life figures with authenticity.
Macias’s performance was praised for its emotional depth, contributing to the series’ positive reception. As of December 2024, Macias remains active in the industry, with ongoing projects in television and film. While specific details about his upcoming roles are scarce, his growing reputation suggests he is likely to take on more prominent projects in the coming years.
Expanding Horizons
Macias has expressed a desire to explore diverse roles and genres, including producing and writing. His work on the short film Obsidian demonstrates his interest in storytelling beyond acting. Fans are eager to see him take on more creative roles, such as directing or producing full-length projects. His ambition to challenge himself artistically and connect with audiences on a deeper level underscores his potential for a long and impactful career.
Public Perception and Popularity
Julio Macias’s role as Spooky in On My Block has made him a cultural icon, particularly among Latinx audiences who appreciate his authentic portrayal of a complex character. The series’ exploration of gang culture, family dynamics, and personal growth resonated with viewers, and Macias’s performance was a standout.
Social media platforms like Reddit and Twitter are filled with discussions about his character, with fans praising his ability to balance intensity and vulnerability. His popularity extends beyond On My Block, with his roles in Selena: The Series and other projects further solidifying his status as a versatile actor.
Booking Julio Macias
Macias’s rising fame has made him a sought-after figure for events and appearances. According to Celebrity Talent, the estimated fee to book Macias for an event ranges from $25,000 to $39,999, though this can vary based on demand, event type, and location. His appeal as a speaker or performer stems from his charismatic personality and ability to connect with audiences. Virtual appearances via live streaming are also an option, making him accessible to a global audience.
Clarifying Misconceptions
Julio Macias vs. Other Individuals: It’s worth noting that there are individuals named Julio Macias in other fields, such as sports, which can lead to confusion. For example, Julio Macias is listed as a placekicker for the Jacksonville State Gamecocks and Purdue Boilermakers in NCAA football. This article focuses exclusively on Julio Macias, the actor, to avoid confusion with these unrelated figures.
Not to Be Confused with José Juan Macías: Another common point of confusion is with José Juan “JJ” Macías, a Mexican former professional footballer. The two are unrelated, with distinct careers and backgrounds. José Juan Macías is known for his soccer career with Guadalajara and León, while Julio Macias is an actor with no connection to professional sports.
FAQs
What makes Julio Macias unique as an actor?
Julio brings rich lived experience as a Mexican-American actor, deep cultural research, and emotional authenticity especially shining through his transformation into “Spooky.” His thoughtful approach resonates with both viewers and Latino communities.
When did he start acting and what are his notable roles?
He began acting in short films and hit television shows around 2016, with credits including Game Shakers, Jane the Virgin, and S.W.A.T. His breakthrough came with On My Block, followed by his role as Pete Astudillo in Selena: The Series (2020–2021).
Has Julio Macias talked about his personal life?
Julio Macias tends to keep his personal life private but occasionally shares glimpses of his life and interests on social media. He is known to be passionate about his craft and cultural heritage.
Does Julio Macias have any awards or nominations?
While Julio Macias has not yet won major mainstream awards, his performance in On My Block has been praised by critics and fans alike, and he has been recognized as a rising star in Latino representation on screen.
In Summary
Julio Macias’s journey from Mexico City to Hollywood is a story of talent, perseverance, and cultural pride. His breakout role as Spooky in On My Block showcased his ability to portray complex characters with authenticity and depth, earning him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. While he does not have an official YouTube channel, fans can find a wealth of content on the platform, from interviews to fan-made tributes. Macias’s commitment to philanthropy, his versatile career, and his personal life with Shannon Schotter make him a multifaceted figure in the entertainment industry.
As of July 2025, Macias continues to take on new challenges, with a promising future in television, film, and potentially behind-the-scenes roles as a writer and producer. His influence as a Latinx actor and advocate for education, social justice, and environmental sustainability resonates with audiences worldwide. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his work, Julio Macias’s performances are available on platforms like Netflix, and his social media presence offers a glimpse into his ongoing journey. As he continues to grow as an artist, Macias remains an inspiration to aspiring actors and a beloved figure in contemporary pop culture.
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