As the highly anticipated remake of the iconic Brazilian soap opera Vale Tudo premiered on April 2, 2025, audiences were immediately drawn into the age-old mystery of who killed the villainous Odete Roitman. This character, originally portrayed by Beatriz Segall, is now brought to life by Débora Bloch, and while the suspense remains, the identity of the killer is set to differ from past versions.
The original Vale Tudo, which aired from 1988 to 1989, captivated viewers with its gripping storyline, culminating in the shocking revelation that Leila (played by Cássia Kis) accidentally killed Odete Roitman. The murder took place when Leila discovered her husband, Marco Aurélio (Reginaldo Faria), in a compromising situation with Maria de Fátima (Gloria Pires). In a moment of panic, she fired a shot without knowing who was behind the glass, resulting in Odete's death.
In the new adaptation, the show's author Manuela Dias has confirmed that the mystery surrounding Odete's murder will remain central to the plot. However, she hinted that the killer's identity may change, adding an element of intrigue for both new viewers and those familiar with the original. "Who killed Odete Roitman?" will once again become a topic of heated discussion among fans.
Interestingly, the international version of Vale Tudo, produced in 2002 and titled Vale Todo, introduced a different narrative twist. In that adaptation, Odete Roitman became Lucrécia, played by Cuban actress Zully Montero, and her killer was revealed to be the butler Eugênio, portrayed by Sérgio Mamberti. This character's motivation stemmed from a desire for revenge against Odete for her mistreatment of his daughter, Heleninha, who is now played by Paolla Oliveira in the current remake.
In the original series, the murder of Odete Roitman was a cultural phenomenon, with the episode airing on December 24, 1988, achieving an unprecedented 81 points in Ibope ratings. The public was so engrossed in the mystery that it sparked discussions and even contests to guess the killer's identity.
As the new series unfolds, viewers will have to wait until the 24th chapter, airing on April 26, 2025, to see Bloch's rendition of Odete Roitman. This timing coincides with Globo's 60th anniversary, adding to the excitement surrounding the character's introduction. Odete is depicted as a powerful businesswoman living in Europe, controlling Transcapital Aerolinhas (TCA) from afar, before returning to Brazil.
In the meantime, audiences have been introduced to Afonso Roitman, Odete's son, who is portrayed by Humberto Carrão in the remake. Afonso's character has undergone a significant transformation, now depicted as a triathlete, reflecting the contemporary values of a 21st-century wealthy man. Carrão has embraced this change, waking up at dawn to train and prepare for his role, which he describes as a "great insight" from the author.
“The super-rich choose high-performance sports as a way to find obstacles and the possibility of defeat, something that characters like Afonso have never encountered in their lives,” Carrão explained in an interview. This new take on Afonso aims to explore deeper emotional layers, especially in relation to his complex relationship with his mother.
Paolla Oliveira's character, Heleninha, also debuted on April 1, 2025, and is set to navigate her own struggles with alcoholism. Her journey begins as she leaves a rehabilitation clinic, and Oliveira has expressed her commitment to portraying the character with empathy and depth. "Heleninha is a character that evokes many feelings. She is fun, intense, fragile, and contradictory," Oliveira stated, emphasizing the need for a nuanced portrayal in today's context.
The original Vale Tudo not only made waves for its dramatic plot but also for its exploration of social issues, including themes of ambition and corruption. The show was a launching pad for numerous actors who later became stars, such as Adriana Esteves and Humberto Martins. Its impact was so profound that it remains a reference point in Brazilian television history.
Despite the success of the original series, the 2002 international remake Vale Todo did not resonate with audiences, leading to its quick cancellation. This time around, Globo aims to recapture the magic of the original while introducing fresh perspectives and storytelling techniques. The show is expected to tackle contemporary issues, reflecting the changes in Brazilian society since the late 1980s.
As the new Vale Tudo unfolds, it promises to engage viewers with its blend of nostalgia and innovation. The mystery of Odete Roitman's murder, the evolving dynamics of family relationships, and the exploration of individual struggles are set to create a compelling narrative that resonates with both old fans and new audiences alike.
With its rich history and cultural significance, Vale Tudo continues to be more than just a soap opera; it serves as a mirror reflecting societal values and challenges, making it a vital part of Brazilian television.
