Camila Pitanga, a prominent figure in Brazilian television, made a memorable entrance on March 21, 2025, at Zig nightclub in São Paulo, where she celebrated the airing of the final episode of Beleza Fatal, the first-ever telenovela on the Max streaming service. As the audience erupted in cheers upon her arrival, the actress, who portrayed the iconic character Lola, reflected on her journey and the creative process that led to the dramatic conclusion of her role.
In an unexpected twist, Pitanga had collaborated closely with the show's writer, Raphael Montes. Their joint efforts were particularly evident in the final scene of the series, which aired that evening. Montes revealed that Pitanga had reached out to him with concerns over the concluding moments of her character. "The last scene of Lola in the novela. She [Camila Pitanga] called me and said, 'Rapha, man, I don't think this scene is as it should be,'" he recounted during an interview on the podcast Um Milkshake Chamado Wanda.
The collaboration not only refined the narrative’s climax but also showcased the trust and rapport that had developed between the actress and writer. Montes remarked, "We built the scene together. And this intimacy, this exchange, you only achieve by having that kind of relationship," highlighting the significance of their teamwork in crafting a satisfying ending. He noted that the process was a collective effort, stating, "The merit isn't just mine; it was a collaborative creation." Camila echoed this sentiment during her time in the nightclub, emphasizing the joy and gratitude she felt throughout the series' production.
Beleza Fatal follows the gripping story of Sofia, a young woman whose life is upended when her mother, Cléo, played by Vanessa Giácomo, is wrongfully imprisoned for a crime she didn’t commit. The plot deepens as Sofia seeks revenge against Lola, the woman she believes is responsible for her mother's suffering. Complementing this narrative is the plight of the Paixão family, represented by characters Elvira (played by Giovanna Antonelli) and Lino (Augusto Madeira), who grapple with the loss of their daughter after a botched plastic surgery. The intertwining stories create a rich tapestry of revenge, grief, and ultimately, redemption.
The anticipation for the final episode had been building throughout the week, with episodes 36 through 39 released just days prior, on March 17. This strategic release was met with enthusiastic responses from fans, underscoring the sentiment shared by the creator's team: "Because there's nothing more Brazilian than watching the finale of a novela together, right?"
As the climax unfolded in the nightclub, Pitanga ardently interacted with her fans, repeating famous lines from her character. In a heartfelt moment, she exclaimed, "I never get tired of thanking you for all the love and support I’ve received on this beautiful journey!" Her words resonated deeply with those in attendance, especially the LGBTQIAP+ community, who embraced the character of Lola and her defiant spirit. The atmosphere electrified as fans shouted back, echoing her sentiments and celebrating their connection to the show.
Before the screening commenced, Pitanga donned her character's persona, complete with a striking jumpsuit and extravagant makeup that captivated the room. As she rallied the audience, they responded with excitement, demonstrating the impact her portrayal had on viewers. As she raised her voice, she passionately articulated one of Lola's catchphrases, getting cheers in return: "Because I don’t just want a Brazil in harmony; I want a harmonized Brazil!"
The finale's air date not only marked the conclusion of a significant narrative but also ignited discussions among fans about its themes and implications. The confluence of storytelling and performance in Beleza Fatal resonates with viewers, allowing them to reflect on real-life issues such as justice, family, and societal expectations.
The network has made all 40 episodes available on Max and also airs on Band and Bandplay, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the complete saga at their convenience. As the credits rolled on the much-anticipated finale, audiences were left grappling with questions and emotions stirred by the passionate portrayal of complex characters.
As the curtain closes on this chapter of television history, the success of Beleza Fatal opens the door for future projects and potential collaborations between artists like Pitanga and Montes. The compelling storytelling, paired with the vibrant performances, sets a high bar for Brazilian television, earning its place in the hearts of many.
