On Sunday, April 27, 2025, the popular Brazilian television show Domingão com Huck aired a heartfelt tribute to the late Fausto Silva, known as Faustão, in celebration of the 60th anniversary of TV Globo. This special edition of the show took viewers on a nostalgic journey through six decades of auditorium programs, showcasing the evolution of Brazilian television and honoring its most influential figures.
Luciano Huck, who took over the Sunday afternoon slot on Globo in September 2021 after Faustão moved to Band, expressed deep admiration for Faustão during the tribute. "It is an honor to occupy this stage that belonged to my dear friend Fausto Silva. A man who forever changed the way we do Sunday television, with his intelligence, humor, and brilliant ideas. The audience and the dancers were essential parts of the show. I am here, with profound respect, to celebrate everything this program represented and continues to represent," Huck stated during the homage.
The special edition of Domingão featured memorable moments from Domingão do Faustão, which aired from 1989 to 2021. It included interactive segments with the audience, musical performances, and dance competitions, all designed to evoke cherished memories from viewers.
As part of the tribute, the show also honored other iconic auditorium programs, including Cassino do Chacrinha, which aired from 1982 to 1988. Livia Andrade, a prominent presenter, transformed into the legendary Elke Maravilha, a beloved figure known for her vibrant personality and unique style. The tribute featured a faithful recreation of Chacrinha's set and costumes, with Andrade embodying the spirit of Maravilha, who was a staple of Brazilian television.
Walério Araújo, the stylist responsible for creating Livia's look, shared insights into the significance of Elke Maravilha. In an interview during the show, he reflected on how Maravilha was a "laboratory" for his creativity, stating, "She was a woman that people could not easily define. They would ask, 'Is she dressed up? What is she wearing? Where do you buy that kind of fabric?'" This sentiment captured the essence of Maravilha's impact on fashion and television.
Also featured during the tribute was Rita Cadillac, an ex-chacrete, who expressed her gratitude to Chacrinha for his influence on her 50-year career. "This man taught me everything, and I owe him so much," she said, visibly emotional. Dona Déa, the mother of the late comedian Paulo Gustavo, further honored the legacy of auditorium programs by singing "Máscara Negra" in a recreation of the popular segment Show de Calouros.
The tribute to Elke Maravilha was not just a visual homage but also a revival of memories from a time when Brazilian television was synonymous with boldness and creativity. Elke, born Elke Georgievna Grunnupp on February 22, 1945, in Saint Petersburg, Russia, became an iconic figure in Brazil after moving there as a child. Her career began in 1972 when she joined Cassino do Chacrinha, where her extravagant style and charismatic presence made her a household name.
Throughout her career, Elke Maravilha became known for her colorful wigs, vibrant makeup, and outfits that defied fashion norms. She was not only a juror on various shows but also appeared in soap operas and hosted her programs. Her versatility allowed her to work with several networks, but it was her time with Globo, alongside Chacrinha, that solidified her status as a cultural icon.
The Cassino do Chacrinha was a cultural phenomenon that aired during the 70s and 80s, combining music, humor, and audience interaction in a chaotic yet vibrant environment. It became a platform for many artists, including Roberto Carlos and Elis Regina, while also promoting emerging talents. Elke's presence added a layer of diversity and charisma that was essential to the show's success.
Walério Araújo's role in the tribute was pivotal, as he recreated one of Elke's most iconic looks for Livia Andrade. The costume featured bright, shiny fabrics and exaggerated accessories, capturing the playful spirit of Elke while also appealing to contemporary audiences. The transformation received acclaim from both viewers and fashion critics, who praised its authenticity and creativity.
The tribute also highlighted the broader significance of the Cassino do Chacrinha in shaping Brazilian television culture. The program was known for its irreverent style and ability to connect with the public, making it a beloved part of Brazil's cultural landscape. The show's format and energy continue to inspire modern programs, demonstrating the lasting impact of its legacy.
As TV Globo celebrated its 60th anniversary on April 26, 2025, the tribute to Elke Maravilha served as a reminder of the network's role in shaping Brazilian culture. The anniversary celebrations included a variety of special programming, including documentaries and reruns of classic shows, reinforcing the importance of preserving the history of Brazilian television.
Social media reactions to the tribute were immediate and enthusiastic, with hashtags like #ElkeMaravilha and #Domingão60Anos trending across platforms. The celebration of such iconic figures reflects a growing trend in television to honor its history while engaging new audiences.
In conclusion, the tribute to Elke Maravilha on Domingão com Huck not only revived the memories of a beloved television personality but also underscored the importance of diversity and representation in media. As Brazilian television continues to evolve, the legacy of figures like Elke serves as a guiding light for future generations, encouraging authenticity and self-expression in an ever-changing landscape.
