In a heartfelt tribute to the late journalist Gloria Maria, the documentary series "Gloria" is set to premiere on April 27, 2025, following its sneak peek on the show Fantástico on April 20. The four-part series delves into the life and career of one of Brazil's most iconic television figures, showcasing never-before-seen footage of Gloria during her battle with brain cancer, which ultimately claimed her life in February 2023.
The Fantástico episode aired exclusive scenes of Gloria’s treatment, revealing her vulnerability and resilience as she faced her illness. "I’m discovering a totally unknown world, and this time, without needing to stamp my passport. This is my life," she reflects in the footage. Gloria’s powerful words resonate with her audience, as she also expresses, "I’m invaded by a hurricane, a typhoon. But God willing, I will overcome." These poignant moments are just a glimpse of the emotional depth the series promises.
Directed by Paulo Sampaio, the documentary captures Gloria’s remarkable journey, highlighting her pioneering role in Brazilian journalism. From being the first reporter to broadcast live in color on Jornal Nacional in 1977 to her groundbreaking HD transmission in 2007, Gloria's career spanned over 50 years, filled with historical coverage and impactful reports.
Throughout the series, Gloria is portrayed as a courageous and restless woman, marked by her significant contributions to journalism. The production includes testimonials from notable figures such as Roberto Carlos, Pedro Bial, Mano Brown, Leilane Neubarth, Djavan, and Maria Bethânia, who share their insights and memories of Gloria.
In addition to her professional achievements, the series also sheds light on Gloria’s personal life. It features intimate accounts from her daughters, Maria and Laura, who listen to their mother's heartfelt letters. In one emotional recollection, Gloria describes the moment she first saw her daughters, saying, "I saw a little girl that I couldn’t define much, in a diaper. I looked at the girl and asked, 'Who is that girl?'" This touching narrative exemplifies the love and dedication she had for her family.
The documentary also revisits Gloria’s historic confrontation with racism, particularly an incident in 1980 when she was barred from a hotel due to her skin color. This moment was a significant milestone in her career, as she publicly denounced the discrimination, becoming a voice for many who faced similar injustices.
Gloria was diagnosed with cancer in 2019, initially undergoing immunotherapy with promising results. However, the disease eventually metastasized to her brain, leading to a series of treatments that ultimately failed. Despite her health struggles, Gloria remained a symbol of strength and resilience, inspiring countless individuals across Brazil.
The series not only celebrates her legacy but also reflects on the challenges she faced as a black woman in a predominantly white industry. Gloria's impact on journalism, particularly for black female reporters, is highlighted through testimonials from communicators like Maju Coutinho, who emphasize the importance of Gloria's trailblazing career.
As the series unfolds, it will explore Gloria’s extensive career, including her coverage of over 100 countries and significant events like the Falklands War. The production team aims to present a comprehensive portrait of Gloria, intertwining her professional milestones with her personal struggles and triumphs.
With each episode airing on Sundays, the series aligns with the 60th anniversary celebrations of the broadcaster, Globo. The documentary aims to not only honor Gloria’s contributions but also inspire future generations of journalists.
In a poignant statement, director Paulo Sampaio remarked, "We wanted to tell the story of a woman, a journalist, who represented the past of this TV and continues to point towards the future. So, who better to tell us that than Gloria Maria?" This sentiment encapsulates the essence of the series, celebrating Gloria's indelible mark on Brazilian television.
As viewers prepare to watch "Gloria," they can expect a multifaceted portrayal of a woman who was not only a journalist but also a mother, a pioneer, and an advocate for change. The series promises to be a moving tribute to a life well-lived and a legacy that continues to inspire.
