The new novela das 7, Dona de Mim, is set to premiere on April 28, 2025, on TV Globo, bringing viewers a heartfelt narrative filled with themes of motherhood, resilience, family ties, and emotional reunions. The story unfolds in the vibrant neighborhood of São Cristóvão, located in the northern zone of Rio de Janeiro (RJ), and features a cast of strong, relatable characters.
The protagonist, Leona, portrayed by Clara Moneke, is depicted as a determined woman who navigates life’s challenges with courage. Following the tragic loss of her daughter during pregnancy, Leona finds a renewed sense of purpose and love when she becomes a nanny to a young girl named Sofia, played by Elis Cabral. This shift in her life comes when she is thrust into the world of the powerful Boaz family, known for their traditional lingerie manufacturing business.
In a gripping twist, the businessman Abel, played by the esteemed Tony Ramos, agrees to adopt Sofia after a desperate plea from Ellen, a character portrayed by Camila Pitanga. Ellen is a former employee of the Boaz factory who is battling cancer and is deeply concerned about her daughter's future. The storyline takes a poignant turn when Ellen's past and the identity of Sofia's biological father, who is revealed to be a criminal, complicate matters further.
Camila Pitanga, who returns to Globo after a hiatus, shared her preparation for the role, stating, "I went to see the excellent work they do at the Instituto Nacional do Câncer. I must thank the patients who generously shared their battles, struggles, and faith with me, as this is a central theme of our novela." Cláudia Abreu, who plays Filipa, Abel's wife, adds depth to the narrative by embodying a character who is passionate about art yet grapples with her own frustrations and motherhood challenges.
The trama also delves into sensitive issues such as Alzheimer’s disease, bipolar disorder, and public safety, ensuring that it resonates with contemporary audiences. Clara Moneke emphasizes the importance of her character, describing Leona as a reflection of modern Brazilian women, stating, "Leona is this woman of today, who needs to have her story told. Despite life's battles, she possesses a strength and hope to overcome."
The novela marks a significant reunion for Clara Moneke and Tony Ramos, who last shared the screen 20 years ago in the novela Belíssima. The anticipation surrounding Dona de Mim is palpable, especially as it coincides with TV Globo's 60th anniversary, celebrating a legacy of storytelling that bridges generations of artists.
In a recent interview on the show Fantástico, Clara reflected on her life and career, noting the unique opportunity she has to work alongside her partner, Brenno Ferreira, on another project. "It's amazing to think about the stories we will tell our children and how people will perceive our journey together," she remarked.
As the premiere date approaches, the cast and crew are hopeful that audiences will connect with the stories presented, as Clara stated, "It’s wonderful when we can reflect the society we live in in a respectful and dignified way. We want people to see themselves, smile, and feel emotional alongside these women."
Moreover, the show is not without its darker elements. Marcello Novaes, who portrays Jacques, one of the antagonists, is set to bring a charismatic yet conflicted character to life. He feels overshadowed by his brother Abel, the factory president, and is determined to assert his own ambitions, leading to inevitable conflicts within the family.
In addition, the character dynamics promise to be engaging. Rafa Vitti plays Davi, a carefree son of Abel who must confront his privileged upbringing, while Felipe Simas embodies Danilo, a man struggling with personal demons stemming from his past. The character of Ricardo, played by Marcos Pasquim, is another villain who adds to the tension as he partners with Jacques in their scheming.
Cláudia Abreu has described Dona de Mim as a light-hearted yet profound exploration of serious themes, stating, "It discusses cancer, death, and the different facets of motherhood, all while maintaining a sense of humor." The blend of drama and comedy is intended to engage viewers on multiple levels.
As the cast gathered for the launch party at the Museu de Arte do Rio on April 16, 2025, excitement filled the air. The event allowed the actors to share insights about their characters and the overarching themes of the novela, leaving fans eager for the premiere.
With its diverse and talented cast, Dona de Mim aims to captivate audiences with its blend of heartfelt storytelling and social commentary, promising to be a mirror reflecting the complexities of modern life. The show’s debut on April 28, 2025, is highly anticipated, and viewers are ready to embrace the emotional rollercoaster that awaits.
In a world where stories of resilience and love often resonate deeply, Dona de Mim is poised to offer a narrative that not only entertains but also inspires. As the countdown to the premiere continues, the hope is that this new chapter in Brazilian television will leave a lasting impact on its audience.
