The documentary series "Gloria," celebrating the legacy of Glória Maria, premieres on April 27, 2025, on TV Globo. This highly anticipated series will air over four Sundays, showcasing the remarkable journey of a journalist who left an indelible mark on Brazilian television.
Glória Maria, who passed away in February 2023 after a battle with cancer, is remembered not just for her groundbreaking work but also for her personal story. The documentary will feature appearances from notable figures such as Maria Bethânia, Roberto Carlos, Maju Coutinho, Emicida, Djavan, Pedro Bial, Mano Brown, and Muniz Sodré, all of whom will share their reflections on her impact.
One of the poignant aspects of the series is its exploration of Glória's role as a mother. She adopted her two daughters, Maria and Laura, currently 17 and 16 years old, respectively, after a transformative trip to Salvador, where she engaged in social work. This particular episode is set to air on Mother’s Day, emphasizing the personal side of Glória's life.
Danielle França, one of the directors of the series, expressed the intent behind the production, stating, "We want to show that she is an inexhaustible source of possibilities." This sentiment is echoed by co-writer Paulo Sampaio, who added, "We want to exalt her without putting her on a pedestal, showing also the flaws she had and the criticisms she faced."
Glória Maria's career at TV Globo spans over five decades. She began her journey as a radio monitor in the Rio editoria before becoming a reporter. Her first live broadcast occurred in 1971, covering the tragic collapse of the Viaduto Engenheiro Freyssinet in Rio de Janeiro. In 1977, she made history again as the first reporter to deliver a live entrance in the first color report of the "Jornal Nacional," marking a significant milestone in Brazilian journalism.
The series will not only revisit her professional achievements but also highlight her contributions to the media landscape. Throughout her career, Glória traveled to more than 100 countries, covering significant historical events such as the Falklands War in 1982, the invasion of the Brazilian embassy in Peru by terrorists in 1996, and the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, as well as the 1998 World Cup in France.
Among the celebrities she interviewed during her career are Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Freddie Mercury, which further solidifies her status as a prominent figure in the field. The documentary aims to capture the essence of her work and the challenges she faced as a Black woman in a predominantly white industry.
As part of the series, 18 Black journalists have been invited for a conversation, including Maju Coutinho, Aline Midlej, Valéria Almeida, and Andreza Oliveira. This initiative not only honors Glória's legacy but also promotes diversity and representation within the media.
The series will be available on Globoplay, allowing a wider audience to engage with Glória's story and the impact she had on Brazilian society. The production is also part of the celebrations marking TV Globo's 60th anniversary, highlighting Glória's significant contributions to the network over the years.
In summary, "Gloria" is more than just a documentary; it is a tribute to a trailblazer who broke barriers and paved the way for future generations in journalism. The series promises to be a heartfelt exploration of her life, showcasing both her professional triumphs and personal struggles.
As viewers prepare for the premiere, the anticipation builds around how Glória Maria's story will be told, and what lessons it will impart about resilience, ambition, and the power of storytelling. With its blend of personal anecdotes and historical context, the series is set to resonate with audiences, reminding everyone of the profound impact one individual can have on an entire industry.
