A leading proponent of the prosperity gospel, Macedo preaches that financial donations and visible acts of faith will result in divine favor and material success—a theology widely criticized for exploiting Brazil’s economically vulnerable populations.
Since founding UCKG in 1977, Macedo has built a sprawling religious and media empire. He owns RecordTV, Brazil’s second-largest television network, which serves as a key vehicle for disseminating conservative religious values and amplifying right-wing political agendas. Through his dual role as apostle and media executive, Macedo has positioned himself as a kingmaker in Brazilian politics—and amassed extraordinary personal wealth in the process.
UCKG’s vast infrastructure and ability to mobilize millions of followers have made it a cornerstone of Brazil’s evangelical right. Macedo’s political reach is further extended through his son-in-law, Marcelo Crivella, a bishop in the church who served as mayor of Rio de Janeiro and currently serves as a Brazilian Federal Deputy. Macedo was a vocal and institutional supporter of Jair Bolsonaro, helping to rally Evangelical backing during his rise to the presidency and throughout his administration.
