In a strategic move earlier today, Globo has announced significant changes to the lineup of its flagship Sunday night program, Fantástico, aimed at revitalizing the show amid a troubling decline in audience numbers. Beginning Sunday, March 23, 2025, seasoned journalist Lucas Gutierrez will replace Alex Escobar as the host of the popular segment, Gols do Fantástico, which showcases the best moments in football.
Gutierrez, who has been a prominent figure in Brazilian sports journalism for the past six years, previously hosted Esporte Espetacular. He expressed excitement about the transition, stating, “Both Tadeu Schmidt and Escobar have been references for me, and now I’m stepping into this role. I’m super excited! Fantástico is a show I’ve watched my whole life, and I’m very happy to be part of it now.”
As part of the changes, the production team aims to leverage Gutierrez's energy and fresh ideas while maintaining the charm and nostalgia that audiences have come to associate with Gols do Fantástico. He reassured viewers that the segment would not only continue covering the week's goals but also introduce innovative features and new ways to engage with the audience regarding recent events. “We’re preparing a nice farewell for Escobar. The idea is to keep the elements that characterized Gols do Fantástico, while also innovating and engaging with what has happened during the week, always playing with the edition and seeking new languages,” Gutierrez added.
The transition is indicative of Globo's broader strategy to tackle the declining viewership. The once unassailable ratings of Fantástico have slipped in recent years, prompting this high-profile adjustment in leadership.
In addition to his new responsibilities on Fantástico, Gutierrez will also continue to host Segue o Jogo every Wednesday, alongside Paulo Nunes, ensuring that fans won't miss his coverage of football through the week.
Further adjustments will see Karine Alves and Fernando Fernandes co-presenting Esporte Espetacular starting at the end of March, signaling a complete overhaul in the sports segment of Globo's programming.
Meanwhile, Fantástico is set to tackle additional pressing issues this Sunday. A report by journalist Giovani Grizotti reveals a shocking scandal involving home care services that have allegedly exploited public funds. This investigative piece, which took three months to compile, uncovers a web of fraudulent documents, inflated contracts, and phony services. In troubling revelations, some families of patients allegedly profited from this deceitful scheme.
The investigative report underscores the importance of transparency in public services and sets a tough tone for the upcoming broadcast. The program will be co-hosted by Maju Coutinho and Poliana Abritta and will follow Domingão com Huck.
In summary, this restructuring of Fantástico appears not only aimed at revitalizing viewer interest but also at addressing crucial societal issues, a combination that may resonate well with audiences eager for both entertainment and substance on Sunday nights.
