On Thursday, April 10, 2025, Brazilian actress Maria Gladys, 85, found herself in a precarious situation in Santa Rita de Jacutinga, Minas Gerais, approximately 300 km from Rio de Janeiro. Her daughter, Maria Thereza Mello Maron, made a heartfelt plea on social media, seeking financial assistance to help bring her mother back home. Maria Gladys is reported to be alone, confused, and without money, wandering the streets of the small town.
Maria Thereza's emotional appeal highlighted the dire circumstances her mother is facing. "She is on the street, confused, alone, without money and without a home. She needs to come to Rio to meet me, so I can bring her to my house," she wrote. The situation is complicated by the limited transportation options in Santa Rita de Jacutinga, which lacks public buses. Maria Gladys requires a taxi to Volta Redonda and then a bus to reach Rio de Janeiro. Unfortunately, neither Maria Thereza nor her sister can afford the fare for their mother’s journey.
In her public message, Maria Thereza also shared a link to her mother's Pix, a Brazilian payment system, for anyone willing to contribute to the cause. "Whoever can help, I am leaving her Pix here," she added, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Maria Gladys is a beloved figure in Brazilian television, best known for her role as Lucimar in the 1988 telenovela "Vale Tudo." This character has recently been revived in a remake by actress Ingrid Gaigher. In addition to her work on "Vale Tudo," Maria Gladys has appeared in several other popular productions, including "Top Model" and "O Beijo do Vampiro." Her legacy continues to resonate, especially now with the rising fame of her granddaughter, Mia Goth, an actress recognized for her performances in films like "Pearl" and "Nymphomaniac." Mia Goth is the daughter of Rachel Goth, another of Maria Gladys's children, and is married to actor Shia LaBeouf.
The plight of Maria Gladys is not the first time her family has faced such distressing circumstances. Earlier this year, in January 2025, she was reported missing after celebrating New Year's Eve at Copacabana Beach. Her family turned to social media for help, and thankfully, she was located a few hours later at a hotel in Flamengo. Maria Thereza shared her relief at finding her mother, stating, "I managed to find her. She is at Hotel Venezuela, in Flamengo. Sorry for the scare; it’s because she was in an apartment on Sá Ferreira, and when I arrived and didn’t find her, I panicked. Grateful!"
As Maria Gladys navigates this challenging time, her family remains hopeful for her safe return. Maria Thereza expressed, "Our greatest wish is to bring her back home safely and with dignity." The community's response to the call for help has the potential to play a significant role in reuniting Maria Gladys with her family.
The situation raises broader questions about the care and support for elderly individuals in vulnerable conditions. Maria Gladys's case shines a light on the importance of community involvement and the need for accessible resources for those who may find themselves in similar predicaments.
As her family continues to seek assistance, Maria Gladys's story serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by many elderly individuals, particularly those who may not have the necessary support systems in place. The hope is that through collective efforts, Maria Gladys will soon find her way back to the warmth and safety of her family in Rio de Janeiro.
In a world where social media can often amplify distressing news, it also provides a platform for support and solidarity. Maria Thereza's heartfelt plea has resonated widely, encouraging many to consider the plight of those who might be lost or in need of help.
As the situation develops, the family remains optimistic that they will soon be able to bring Maria Gladys back home, where she belongs, surrounded by loved ones who are eager to care for her.
