In the world of Brazilian television, few characters have made as memorable an impact as Odete Roitman, portrayed by Débora Bloch in the highly anticipated remake of the classic telenovela Vale Tudo. Premiering on April 28, 2025, this updated version of the show celebrates the 60th anniversary of TV Globo and has sparked intense discussions among viewers, particularly concerning the character's portrayal and the societal implications it carries.
Odete Roitman, a character originally brought to life by Beatriz Segall in 1988, is notorious for her ruthless and often morally corrupt behavior. In the new series, her arrival has already stirred controversy, with some audiences expressing admiration for her villainous traits. In a twist that reflects contemporary societal attitudes, many viewers have taken to social media to label Odete as a "justiceira" or a vigilante, suggesting that her harsh demeanor resonates with those who feel marginalized or overlooked in today's world.
Social media reactions have been mixed, with some fans calling her a "queen" for her unapologetic attitude. One user, identified as Jota, remarked, "Odete is the heroine of the soap opera. The bunch of layabouts around her don’t do anything useful. Why should she be nice to them?" Another user, Caroline, pointed out the irony of the situation, stating, "I lived to see Odete Roitman, one of the most classicist, racist, and morally corrupt characters, being exalted on Twitter." This shift in perception highlights a significant change in audience dynamics compared to the original series.
In a pivotal chapter aired on April 29, 2025, viewers witnessed a reunion between Odete and her grandson, Tiago, portrayed by Pedro Waddington. This encounter drew stark comparisons to the original series, where the character's warmth and humanity were evident. Many fans expressed disappointment over the colder portrayal of Odete in the remake. One viewer lamented, "The reunion in the original was beautiful, showcasing the villain's human side. This version feels more like a letdown, almost cruel to the boy who just wants to see her." Such sentiments indicate that while the character remains a focal point of intrigue, the emotional depth that once defined her might be lacking in the current adaptation.
Odete's interactions in the latest episodes have also sparked controversy. In one scene, she was visibly perplexed to find her daughter, Heleninha (Paolla Oliveira), intoxicated and stumbling. This moment not only highlighted the ongoing struggles with addiction faced by Heleninha but also showcased Odete's harshness, as she bluntly stated that her daughter would not recover from her addiction because she was in Brazil. This comment has ignited debates about family dynamics and the stigma surrounding addiction.
Fans have taken to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to voice their opinions on the character's evolution. One user noted, "I'm shocked at how cold Odete is with Tiago. It's a stark contrast to the original portrayal, which was much warmer." Another echoed this sentiment, saying, "The reunion scene feels so bland compared to the original. It’s disappointing to see such a powerful character reduced to this." These reactions suggest that while the character of Odete Roitman remains a compelling figure, the execution of her story arc may not be resonating as intended.
Despite the mixed reviews, Odete's character continues to captivate audiences. In a recent episode, her sharp and often offensive remarks about the less fortunate went viral, with viewers both laughing and cringing at her audacity. Comments like, "Chic is not being exclusive, Celina. Chic is being unique," and her disdain for guests in her home have struck a chord with many, leading to a newfound appreciation for her unapologetic nature.
Debora Bloch, the actress behind the character, has shared her thoughts on stepping into such an iconic role. In an interview on Mais Você with Ana Maria Braga, she reflected on her past connection with Beatriz Segall, saying, "I met Beatriz when I was a child due to my father’s work. It’s surreal to now be playing a character she made famous." This connection adds another layer of complexity to the character's portrayal, bridging the past and present of Brazilian television.
As the story unfolds, the audience remains divided. Some sympathize with Odete, seeing her as a product of her environment, while others criticize her for perpetuating harmful stereotypes and behaviors. The show’s writer, Manuela Dias, faces the daunting task of balancing these perspectives while crafting a narrative that resonates with modern viewers.
In the upcoming episodes, viewers can expect to see more of Odete's interactions with her family, particularly with Heleninha, who has struggled with alcoholism. The dynamic between mother and daughter is set to evolve, with the potential for deeper exploration of their turbulent relationship. How Odete navigates these familial challenges will likely dictate the audience's continued engagement with her character.
As Vale Tudo progresses, it will be fascinating to observe how the character of Odete Roitman is developed and how audience perceptions shift in response to her actions. The blend of nostalgia for the original series and the desire for contemporary relevance creates a unique viewing experience that reflects the complexities of modern Brazilian culture.
