Ferran and The Royalty Family: The Rise of a Young Social Media Star
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Who is Ferran and The Royalty Family?
The Royalty Family is a YouTube channel run by a blended Lebanese-Colombian family consisting of Andrea Espada, Ali Saleh, and their three children: Ferran, Milan, and Blu Amal. Launched in April 2017, the channel has amassed over 31 million subscribers and 10.6 billion views, making it one of the top family vlogging channels globally. Their content focuses on family-friendly entertainment, including comedy sketches, challenges, pranks, shopping hauls, and personal milestones, with Ferran often stealing the spotlight with his charismatic presence.[](https://royalty-family.fandom.com/wiki/The_Royalty_Family)[](https://www.famousbirthdays.com/webgroups/royalty-family.html). Ferran, born Ferran Lepine Rincón on July 26, 2010, in Mexico City, Mexico, is the eldest child of Andrea Espada. At age three, he moved to the United States with his mother, a Colombian immigrant and former model, actress, and TV host. Ferran’s biological father is Pierre Lepine, a Mexican photographer, while Ali Saleh, known as 4K PAPI, is his stepfather. The family’s YouTube success has propelled Ferran to fame, earning him the nickname “Ferran The Fashion King” for his stylish persona and a dedicated Instagram following of over 1.1 million.[](https://royalty-family.fandom.com/wiki/Ferran_Lepine)[](https://www.famousbirthdays.com/people/ferran-the-fashion-king.html)Ferran’s Role in The Royalty Family
Ferran is a central figure in The Royalty Family’s content, appearing in nearly every video and contributing to the channel’s appeal. His vibrant personality, fashion-forward style, and knack for engaging with audiences have made him a fan favorite. Beyond the main channel, Ferran co-runs **Royalty Gaming**, a gaming-focused YouTube channel launched on September 4, 2020, with Ali. The channel, which features gameplay of popular titles like Fortnite, Minecraft, and Roblox, has over 5 million subscribers and millions of views on videos such as “Playing AMONG US!!” and “Ferran is the IMPOSTER!”[](https://royalty-family.fandom.com/wiki/Ferran_Lepine)[](https://wiki.sportskeeda.com/youtube/who-is-the-royalty-family) Ferran also has his own YouTube channel, Ferralandia, where he shares personal content, and an Instagram account (@kingferran) managed by Andrea, showcasing his lifestyle and fashion. His posts, often featuring luxe and streetwear brands like Gucci, have helped him build a distinct “Fashion King” brand, further amplified by the family’s Royalty Clothing merchandise line.[](https://www.famousbirthdays.com/people/ferran-the-fashion-king.html)[](https://wiki.sportskeeda.com/youtube/who-is-the-royalty-family)The Journey of The Royalty Family
Andrea Espada, born in Cali, Colombia, began her career as a model under the stage name Selena Spice, later transitioning to roles as a DJ, TV host for UFC Now, and game show presenter. Ali Saleh, born in Beirut, Lebanon, and raised in the U.S. since age three, brings a comedic and entrepreneurial flair to the family’s content. The couple, who married on November 12, 2021, started The Royalty Family to share their unique, diverse family dynamic, blending Colombian, Lebanese, and American cultures. Their children Ferran, Milan (born June 1, 2020), and Blu Amal (born January 10, 2023) are integral to their storytelling, with Ferran often featured as the “big brother” in vlogs and challenges.[](https://youtube.fandom.com/wiki/The_Royalty_Family)[](https://royalty-family.fandom.com/wiki/The_Royalty_Family) The family’s rise to fame wasn’t overnight. Starting with just $8,000 in their first month on YouTube in 2017, they grew to 6.5 million subscribers by 2020 and now boast a net worth estimated at $25 million in 2024, driven by YouTube ad revenue, brand deals (e.g., L’Oréal, Google Pixel), merchandise sales, and real estate investments. Their ability to connect with audiences through relatable yet aspirational content has fueled their success.[](https://wiki.sportskeeda.com/youtube/who-is-the-royalty-family)[](https://www.tubefilter.com/2020/02/26/creators-going-pro-royalty-family/)Controversies Surrounding The Royalty Family
- Despite their popularity, The Royalty Family has faced criticism and controversy, particularly regarding Ferran’s upbringing and family
- dynamics:Parental Alienation
- Allegations: Ferran’s biological father, Pierre Lepine, claims he has been denied access to his son for over four years. Through a GoFundMe campaign and social media (e.g., TikTok @ferransdad and a dedicated Facebook page), Pierre alleges that Andrea and Ali have alienated Ferran, portraying him negatively to fans and manipulating Ferran’s perception of him. He is seeking legal action to reconnect with his son, though his efforts have raised only $351 of a $20,000 goal. These claims have sparked debate among fans, with some accusing the family of exploiting Ferran for content.[](https://www.facebook.com/kingferrandad/)[](https://www.reddit.com/r/YTVloggerFamilies/comments/utouc0/royalty_family/)[](https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-me-reunite-with-my-son-king-ferran)
- Content Authenticity: Critics on platforms like Reddit have called out the family for staging videos, such as a power outage vlog allegedly using recycled hurricane footage, and for promoting materialism. Some argue their content prioritizes views over authenticity, with exaggerated thumbnails and titles designed to grab attention.[](https://www.todaysparent.com/kids/bigger-kids/the-royalty-family/)[](https://www.reddit.com/r/daddit/comments/wq0j6g/psa_for_anyone_with_kids_old_enough_to_watch/)
- Child Exploitation Concerns: There are allegations that Ferran and his siblings are overexposed online, with comments on videos sometimes containing inappropriate remarks that go unmoderated. Critics also claim Andrea and Ali rely on babysitters or Ferran’s grandmother off-camera, presenting a curated “perfect family” image for views.[](https://www.reddit.com/r/YTVloggerFamilies/comments/1jd5cr4/royalty_family_why_are_theyre_one_of_the_worst/).Andrea’s Past
- Parental Alienation Allegations: Ferran’s biological father, Pierre Lepine, claims he has been denied access to his son for over four years. Through a GoFundMe campaign and social media (e.g., TikTok @ferransdad and a dedicated Facebook page), Pierre alleges that Andrea and Ali have alienated Ferran, portraying him negatively to fans and manipulating Ferran’s perception of him. He is seeking legal action to reconnect with his son, though his efforts have raised only $351 of a $20,000 goal. These claims have sparked debate among fans, with some accusing the family of exploiting Ferran for content.[](https://www.facebook.com/kingferrandad/)[](https://www.reddit.com/r/YTVloggerFamilies/comments/utouc0/royalty_family/)[](https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-me-reunite-with-my-son-king-ferran)
- Content Authenticity: Critics on platforms like Reddit have called out the family for staging videos, such as a power outage vlog allegedly using recycled hurricane footage, and for promoting materialism. Some argue their content prioritizes views over authenticity, with exaggerated thumbnails and titles designed to grab attention.[](https://www.todaysparent.com/kids/bigger-kids/the-royalty-family/)[](https://www.reddit.com/r/daddit/comments/wq0j6g/psa_for_anyone_with_kids_old_enough_to_watch/)
- Child Exploitation Concerns: There are allegations that Ferran and his siblings are overexposed online, with comments on videos sometimes containing inappropriate remarks that go unmoderated. Critics also claim Andrea and Ali rely on babysitters or Ferran’s grandmother off-camera, presenting a curated “perfect family” image for views.[](https://www.reddit.com/r/YTVloggerFamilies/comments/1jd5cr4/royalty_family_why_are_theyre_one_of_the_worst/).Andrea’s Past: Some online discussions highlight Andrea’s early career as a model, including her work under the name Selena Spice, which included adult-oriented content. While this is not addressed on their family-friendly channel, it has fueled criticism from detractors who question their role-model status.[](https://www.reddit.com/r/YTVloggerFamilies/comments/1jd5cr4/royalty_family_why_are_theyre_one_of_the_worst/)[](https://www.reddit.com/r/YTVloggerFamilies/comments/utouc0/royalty_family/)
Is The Royalty Family Safe for Kids?
The Royalty Family’s content is generally family-friendly, focusing on lighthearted entertainment suitable for children aged eight and up, as noted by psychotherapist Stephanie Wijkstrom. However, experts like Theresa Bertuzi emphasize that the channel is more about passive entertainment than education, and parents should monitor viewing to avoid unrealistic expectations about wealth or lifestyle. Balancing such content with educational channels like Nat Geo Kids or SciShow Kids is recommended.[](https://www.todaysparent.com/kids/bigger-kids/the-royalty-family/)Ferran’s Future and The Royalty Family’s Impact
At just 15 years old, Ferran has already built a personal brand as a content creator, gamer, and fashion influencer. His involvement in Royalty Gaming and Ferralandia suggests he’s carving out his own path, potentially following in his mother’s entertainment footsteps. The Royalty Family’s success highlights the power of YouTube as a platform for diverse families to share their stories, but it also underscores the challenges of navigating public scrutiny and personal controversies in the digital age. As the family continues to grow both in subscribers and with new additions like Blu Amal they remain a polarizing yet undeniable force in family vlogging. For Ferran, the journey from a young immigrant to a global social media star is a testament to his charisma and the family’s ability to connect with millions, even amidst criticism.Tips for Fans and Parents
- For Fans: Engage with Ferran and The Royalty Family’s content on YouTube (@royaltyfam, @RoyaltyGaming1) and Instagram (@kingferran, @andreaespadatv, @4kpapi). Check out their Royalty Clothing line for merchandise.
- For Parents: Monitor your child’s viewing to ensure it aligns with your values. Use YouTube Kids for younger viewers and discuss the curated nature of influencer content to manage expectations.
- For Aspiring Creators: Ferran’s success shows that consistency, personality, and family support can lead to a thriving online presence. Start small, focus on authentic content, and leverage platforms like Instagram to build your brand.
- For Parents: Monitor your child’s viewing to ensure it aligns with your values. Use YouTube Kids for younger viewers and discuss the curated nature of influencer content to manage expectations.
- For Aspiring Creators: Ferran’s success shows that consistency, personality, and family support can lead to a thriving online presence. Start small, focus on authentic content, and leverage platforms like Instagram to build your brand.
