Galvão Bueno made a triumphant return to Brazilian television on March 31, 2025, with the premiere of his new show "Galvão e Amigos" on Band. This marks a significant moment in the broadcaster's history, as Bueno returns to the network after more than 40 years, having left in 1981. The show, which airs weekly on Monday nights, is essentially a rebranding of his previous program "Bem, Amigos!" that aired on SporTV from 2003 to 2022. The name change was necessary due to restrictions from Globo, the network Bueno departed after the 2022 World Cup.
In a press conference held prior to the show's debut, Bueno expressed his excitement about returning to Band, remarking, "If I’m going back to the house of friends now, nothing better than to open all the work with 'Bem, amigos, thank you for putting up with me a little more and for being here again.'" This phrase, which has become a signature of his broadcasts, originated from a mix-up during his diverse broadcasting schedule, leading him to use it as a friendly greeting to viewers.
The inaugural episode featured former soccer star Ronaldo Fenômeno as a special guest, adding to the star power of the show. Bueno's fixed cast includes familiar faces from his past broadcasts: Walter Casagrande, Mauro Naves, and Paulo Roberto Falcão. Each of these commentators brings their unique perspectives and insights to the table, aiming to create engaging discussions around sports, much like they did in their previous roles.
However, during discussions about potential changes in the new format, Casagrande and Naves admitted they couldn't pinpoint any significant differences from the old show. "The news? I don’t know," Casagrande humorously remarked. "I just know what I’m feeling right now. I do everything with love, and I like to feel the energy of the people who also like me." Naves echoed these sentiments, suggesting that while the format may start out similar, it has the potential to evolve over time.
In terms of audience reception, the premiere garnered a modest 1.4 points of audience share in Greater São Paulo, placing it fourth among open TV channels, trailing behind SBT (4), Record (4.1), and Globo (13.9). The previous Monday, without Bueno's presence, Band registered only 0.9 points in the same time slot, highlighting the impact of his return.
Looking ahead, Galvão revealed that Vanderlei Luxemburgo, a prominent figure in Brazilian soccer, will join the show as a participant starting April 7, 2025. This announcement was made during an interview with Craque Neto on the program "Os Donos da Bola" on Rádio Bandeirantes. Bueno jokingly noted that Luxemburgo was delayed by a week but confirmed his contract with Band.
Throughout his illustrious career, Galvão Bueno has been a pivotal figure in Brazilian sports broadcasting, known not only for his commentary during major events like the World Cup but also for his emotional connection with the audience. His famous call during Brazil's 1994 World Cup victory became a defining moment in sports history, encapsulating the joy of millions of fans.
Beyond his sports commentary, Bueno has also expressed his desire to remain active in various media roles. He will occasionally contribute to "Jornal da Band" and provide commentary for Formula 1 events, further extending his influence in the sports broadcasting arena.
Despite his celebrated career, Bueno's journey has not been without controversy. A documentary released by Globoplay in 2023 titled "Galvão Bueno: Olha o Que Ele Fez" revealed that several prominent figures in Brazilian sports, including Neymar and Felipão, declined to participate due to past grievances with the narrator. These tensions highlight the complexities of Bueno's relationships within the sports community.
Throughout the years, Bueno has faced criticism and challenges, including public disputes with other sports personalities. Notably, former Formula 1 champion Nelson Piquet and journalist Renato Maurício Prado have voiced their discontent with him, illustrating the sometimes contentious nature of sports media.
As "Galvão e Amigos" settles into its new home, viewers can expect a blend of familiar camaraderie and spirited debate among the cast. Each week promises lively discussions that reflect the diverse opinions within the world of sports, a hallmark of Bueno's broadcasting style.
In summary, Galvão Bueno's return to Band with "Galvão e Amigos" signifies not just a personal comeback but also a renewed commitment to engaging sports commentary that resonates with fans. As the program evolves, it will be interesting to see how Bueno and his team adapt to the changing landscape of sports broadcasting while maintaining the essence that has made him a beloved figure in Brazilian television.
