Regina Duarte, a prominent figure in Brazilian television, is making a notable return to Globo, where she is set to revisit her iconic role as Viúva Porcina from the classic novela Roque Santeiro. This return marks a significant moment for both the actress and the network, as it coincides with the premiere of the new season of Conversa com Bial, which will air on April 21, 2025. The episode is part of a special week celebrating Globo's 60th anniversary, and Duarte's appearance is seen as a symbolic reunion with her roots.
In the upcoming episode, host Pedro Bial will celebrate the 40th anniversary of Roque Santeiro alongside Regina Duarte and journalist Laura Mattos, who authored a book delving into the censorship issues faced by the novela in the 1970s. This discussion promises to shed light on the historical context of the show and the challenges it encountered during its initial run.
Regina Duarte, who has had a storied career with Globo spanning over 50 years, left the network in February 2020 after accepting a position as the Special Secretary of Culture under President Jair Bolsonaro. Her departure was described as consensual, marking the end of a significant chapter that began with her debut in the novela Véu de Noiva in 1969. In a heartfelt statement regarding her exit, she compared leaving Globo to departing from her "father's house," expressing gratitude for the experiences and opportunities she gained during her time at the network.
During her tenure in the Bolsonaro administration, which lasted only two and a half months before she was replaced by Mario Frias, Duarte faced considerable scrutiny and controversy. After stepping down, she shifted her focus to the visual arts, creating and selling artwork primarily made from recyclable materials. Her artistic endeavors have led to the establishment of a website where her pieces are available, with prices ranging from R$ 100 to R$ 25,000.
In the Conversa com Bial episode, Regina will reflect on her experiences related to the censorship of Roque Santeiro. She recalls a poignant moment when she and a group of artists traveled to Brasília to advocate for the show's release. "I remember very well that we went to Brasília, with the director of Globo and some colleagues from the cast, to request the release for the airing of Roque Santeiro, and it was a very frustrating excursion. President Ernesto Geisel did not meet with us, sent someone instead, and we spent quite a while in a room waiting, but no one came to speak with us. It was strange. It was on a Sunday that it was announced on Jornal Nacional that the novela would no longer air," she recounted.
This week's special programming on Conversa com Bial not only features Regina Duarte but also includes a variety of guests who have played significant roles in shaping Brazilian television. On Tuesday, April 22, Lázaro Ramos will discuss the importance of Black representation in TV. The following day, scriptwriters Alessandra Poggi, Rosane Svartman, and Walcyr Carrasco will share insights into the creative process behind novelas. Thursday's guest, Ney Matogrosso, will revisit memorable soundtracks that have become integral to beloved characters. Finally, on Friday, William Bonner will reflect on his career at Jornal Nacional and the evolving landscape of journalism in the digital age.
Regina Duarte's return to Globo is not just a personal milestone; it's also a significant moment for the network as it celebrates its history and the evolution of Brazilian television. Her story, marked by both triumphs and challenges, resonates with many viewers who have followed her career over the decades. As she prepares to engage with her audience once again, the anticipation builds around her reflections on her past and the future of Brazilian arts and culture.
As the new season of Conversa com Bial unfolds, it promises to be a week filled with rich discussions and reflections on the impact of television in Brazil. For those who have cherished the stories and characters brought to life on screen, this series of episodes offers both nostalgia and a glimpse into the ongoing journey of the industry.
