Leo Bittencourt, the rising star of Brazilian television, is taking on the dual challenge of portraying two distinct characters on Globo. The 30-year-old actor is currently captivating audiences as Rhodes in the novela Mania de Você and as Cauã in the series Rensga Hits. Bittencourt's theatrical prowess is on full display as he balances these demanding roles, both requiring substantial emotional and physical investment.
Bittencourt's character Rhodes experiences significant growth throughout Mania de Você. Initially introduced as someone who had tumultuous beginnings—being adopted at 12 after struggling on the streets—Rhodes is on a path of redemption. His relationship with Luma, played by Agatha Moreira, is central to the narrative, filled with tension and potential as their story develops. The challenge for Bittencourt lies not only in embodying this character fully but also ensuring he coexists seamlessly with the plot’s larger themes.
Juggling such responsibilities, Bittencourt even confessed to staying awake for 29 hours straight to manage the filming schedules for both projects. "Foi intenso, mas com toda a certeza valeu a pena," he reflected ("It was intense, but it was certainly worth it"), reflecting on how he coordinated his time between shooting Mania de Você and completing the feature film Netlovers. This level of commitment is indicative of his passion for acting; he is not shy when it pertains to investing all his energy for the sake of performance.
Speaking with NaTelinha, Bittencourt opened up about the significance of starring in Mania de Você—his first role at the prime 21h slot, noting it as "um grande sonho e não deixa de ser uma confirmação de que estou no caminho certo" ("a great dream and is also confirmation I am on the right path"). The gravity of this opportunity is not lost on the actor, who hopes to convey complex narratives through his roles.
With his dual roles, one question persists: how does he manage the pressure to meet the expectations placed upon him as he embraces the title of 'galã'? "Ser galã vai além da estética," he asserts ("Being a heartthrob goes beyond aesthetics"), signaling his desire to transcend being merely defined by his looks. He elaborated, stating, "Não tenho vaidade em me descaracterizar para fazer personagens interessantes. Então busco estar além do que se espera de apenas um rótulo" ("I have no vanity about deconstructing myself to play interesting characters. So I seek to be more than what is expected of just a label").
Continuing the role of Rhodes, the character is deepening ties to the community and his biological family within the show, creating layers and intricacies similar to the lives many experience. This rich development is reflected not only on-screen but also resonates with audiences who are starting to recognize Bittencourt's work more personally, as fans message him expressing pride and admiration for his latest roles.
Although the audience ratings haven't been stellar, Bittencourt maintains optimistic engagement with his followers, responding positively to their encouragement. "Fico feliz com a recepção do público," he shared ("I am happy with the public's reception"), echoing his immediate satisfaction from those who watch him perform week after week.
His character Rhodes will weave through various emotional arcs, presumably growing closer to Luma as the story progresses, but Bittencourt is careful not to reveal too much. “Muita coisa ainda tem para acontecer até março,” he teased ("A lot more is yet to come until March"), hinting at the upcoming story developments.
Alongside the drama of Mania de Você, the second season of Rensga Hits adds another layer to Bittencourt's artistic endeavors. Through the series, he has adapted to the sertanejo universe, necessitating extensive study of its music and cultural nuances. "Me aproximei muito do universo sertanejo para me preparar para a série" ("I got very close to the sertanejo universe to prepare for the series"), he explained, sharing his approach to refining his vocal skills and musical abilities to authentically represent the role.
"Tive preparação para fazer o sotaque de Goiânia e para aprender esses instrumentos como teclado, violão, além da preparação vocal," he detailed ("I had training to do the Goiânia accent and to learn those instruments like keyboard, guitar, along with vocal training"), demonstrating his dedication to embodying the characters fully.
Bittencourt's career shows no signs of stagnation. Having begun with roles such as Hugo in Malhação: Vidas Brasileiras, and lively appearances on Segunda Chamada and Sob Pressão, he has consistently pushed toward new boundaries. Taking center stage on national television not only amplifies his visibility but also provides him with fresh opportunities to showcase his substantial talent.
With strong work ethic and passion for his craft, Leo Bittencourt continues to carve out his place among Brazil's acting elite, blending humility with ambition as he embarks on this exciting chapter of his career.
