In a shocking turn of events, comedian Juliana Oliveira has filed a criminal complaint with the Public Ministry of São Paulo (MP-SP) against television presenter Otávio Mesquita, accusing him of rape. The allegations stem from an incident that allegedly occurred on April 25, 2016, during the recording of the popular SBT program "The Noite," hosted by Danilo Gentili. Oliveira, who served as a stage assistant and producer for the show, claims that Mesquita touched her intimate parts without her consent, despite her attempts to evade him.
According to the complaint, videos and transcripts from the show depict Mesquita making unwanted physical advances towards Oliveira, who reportedly expressed her discomfort and attempted to distance herself from the presenter. "The acts constitute rape under Brazilian law," said Oliveira's lawyer, Hédio Silva Jr., emphasizing that any lewd act performed through violence is considered a crime, even without penetration.
This disturbing allegation comes shortly after Oliveira's dismissal from SBT, where she had worked for nearly a decade. Her departure from the network has raised speculation about the motivations behind the complaint, with some suggesting it could be linked to her recent job loss. However, Oliveira's legal team insists that the complaint is a serious pursuit of justice rather than a reaction to her termination.
In response to the accusations, Mesquita has categorically denied any wrongdoing, labeling the incident as a "joke" that was agreed upon prior to filming. He argued that if Oliveira felt uncomfortable at any point, she could have requested that the segment not be aired. "It's absurd [this accusation]. That was recorded. She took nine years and only did this now because she was fired and is upset. My ex-wife and my son were there in the audience. There was no rape. It was a joke," Mesquita stated.
The case has ignited a firestorm of media attention and public discourse regarding the treatment of women in the entertainment industry, particularly in light of the #MeToo movement, which has encouraged victims of sexual misconduct to come forward. Social media reactions have been polarized, with many supporting Oliveira for her bravery in speaking out, while others question the timing and validity of her claims.
Juliana Oliveira's career began in São Paulo, where she gained recognition through her work on "The Noite." Her role on the show allowed her to showcase her comedic talents, and she became a familiar face to viewers. However, her recent allegations have overshadowed her previous accomplishments, thrusting her into the public eye for reasons she likely never anticipated.
The legal implications of this case are significant. Under Brazilian law, the definition of rape includes any act of sexual violence or coercion, which encompasses the allegations made by Oliveira. The Brazilian Penal Code, particularly Article 213, defines rape as "constraining someone, through violence or serious threat, to practice or allow a lewd act to be practiced with him." This legal framework will play a crucial role as the investigation unfolds.
As the MP-SP begins its investigation, it will review the evidence presented, including video footage from the program that captured the alleged incident. The presence of witnesses, including Mesquita's ex-wife and son, could also influence the proceedings, as they may be called to testify regarding the atmosphere during the recording.
The timeline of events leading to the current situation is critical. The incident occurred during a live broadcast in 2016, but Oliveira did not publicly report the incident until March 2025, shortly after her dismissal from SBT. This gap has raised questions about the motivations behind her actions, with Mesquita suggesting that her complaint is rooted in resentment rather than a genuine pursuit of justice.
Moreover, the broader implications of this case extend beyond the individuals involved. The allegations have reignited discussions about workplace harassment in the entertainment industry, highlighting the need for stronger protections for employees in high-pressure environments like television. Many within the industry are calling for a reassessment of policies regarding consent and harassment to ensure that such incidents are addressed swiftly and effectively.
As the situation continues to develop, the SBT network has yet to release an official statement regarding the allegations against Mesquita. Internally, the atmosphere at the network is reportedly tense, as the outcome of this case could have lasting effects on both the network's reputation and its programming.
In the coming weeks, as the investigation unfolds, all eyes will be on the MP-SP as it navigates the complexities of this high-profile case. The outcome could set a precedent for how similar allegations are handled in the future, particularly within the realm of entertainment.
Juliana Oliveira's decision to file a complaint has sparked a critical conversation about consent, power dynamics, and the treatment of women in the workplace. As society grapples with these issues, the case serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and the need for a cultural shift in how such matters are addressed.
The legal battle ahead promises to be arduous, with both parties preparing to defend their positions vigorously. For Oliveira, this marks a pivotal moment in her life and career, as she seeks justice for what she describes as a traumatic experience. For Mesquita, the stakes are equally high, as he fights to clear his name and protect his long-standing career in television.
