As anticipation builds for the highly awaited remake of the iconic Brazilian telenovela Vale Tudo, fans are eager to see how the new cast will bring to life the beloved characters that captivated audiences in the late 1980s. One of the most talked-about returns is that of the notorious villain, Odete Roitman, portrayed by Débora Bloch. Her character is set to make a grand entrance in chapter 24 of the remake, scheduled to air on April 26, 2025, coinciding with the 60th anniversary celebrations of the Globo network.
Odete will first appear in a phone call to her sister Celina, played by Malu Galli, where she will make extravagant demands for her stay in Brazil. "You reserve for me the presidential suite of one of those clean hotels. Preferably one that doesn’t have a bunch of homeless people at the door trying to grab us. And ask for a discount, they give it!" she famously quips, setting the tone for her character's unapologetic and self-centered demeanor.
As the story unfolds, Odete's return is expected to stir up a series of conflicts, particularly with her daughter Heleninha, portrayed by Renata Sorrah, who has been grappling with alcohol issues. In a surprising twist, Odete’s return will also see her teaming up with the ambitious Maria de Fátima, played by Bella Campos, who is determined to sabotage her rival Solange, played by Alice Wegamann.
In the original series, which debuted in 1988, Odete Roitman's character met a tragic end when she was mistakenly shot by Leila, who thought she was targeting Maria de Fátima. While the remake promises to retain some of the original plot points, changes are expected. For instance, while Odete will still meet her demise, the identity of her killer will differ from the original storyline.
As the narrative progresses, fans of the show can expect to see a mix of familiar and new storylines. Maria de Fátima’s character, who is driven by a desire for wealth and status, will resort to underhanded tactics to eliminate Solange from Afonso's life. In a calculated move, she enlists the help of César, portrayed by Cauã Reymond, to sabotage Solange’s plans, including hiring a hacker to steal her work.
In the lead-up to Odete’s much-anticipated appearance, the show has been rife with drama behind the scenes as well. Reports have surfaced of tensions between the lead actors, particularly between Cauã Reymond and Bella Campos. Allegedly, disagreements have flared over criticisms of acting performances, leading to significant disruptions in filming schedules. Important scenes between César and Maria de Fátima had to be canceled due to the ongoing conflict, prompting the production team to intervene.
These behind-the-scenes issues highlight the pressures of recreating a classic while meeting modern expectations. The original Vale Tudo was known for its exploration of social issues, including corruption and inequality, themes that remain relevant today. The new version aims to maintain this critical lens while adapting to contemporary audiences.
Reflecting on her role, Débora Bloch shared insights into her career and the challenges of stepping into such a legendary character. In a recent interview, she admitted to being dazzled by fame early in her career, which led her to turn down several prominent roles. "I became famous and got a bit dazzled, but I had my father’s example, who navigated instability throughout his life, which kept me grounded," she explained. Her return to television with this role is seen as a significant comeback, as she reconnects with a character that has become emblematic in Brazilian pop culture.
As the show progresses, the fate of other characters will also unfold. Raquel Accioli, played by Regina Duarte, will continue her journey of resilience as she builds her sandwich business into a restaurant chain, while Ivan, portrayed by Antônio Fagundes, faces the consequences of his past actions, including a stint in prison due to Odete’s machinations. Meanwhile, Maria de Fátima’s ambitious plans will lead her to marry an Italian prince, fulfilling her dreams of luxury.
In upcoming episodes, viewers can expect a mix of drama, romance, and suspense as the complex relationships between characters evolve. The narrative will explore themes of ambition, betrayal, and the quest for power, all set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing society.
With its blend of nostalgia and modern storytelling, the remake of Vale Tudo is poised to capture the hearts of both new viewers and longtime fans. As the characters navigate their intertwined fates, the show promises to deliver the same gripping drama that made the original a cultural touchstone in Brazilian television history.
As the premiere date approaches, excitement is palpable among fans eager to witness how the new cast will interpret these iconic roles and how the story will unfold in a contemporary context. The return of Odete Roitman is not just a nod to the past; it’s a reminder of the enduring appeal of stories that resonate across generations.
