The Christmas special featuring the iconic Brazilian singer Roberto Carlos aired on October 20, 2024, captivating audiences and solidifying his longstanding presence on TV Globo. The program achieved impressive viewership ratings, scoring 15 points in Grande São Paulo and soaring to 20 points in Rio de Janeiro, according to Kantar Ibope. These statistics underline Roberto Carlos' enduring popularity, particularly as it outshined competing programs such as the "Amigas" special, which attracted far fewer viewers—3 points and 2 points respectively.
The show, marking the 50th annual special, was filled with nostalgia and highlighted various talented guests including Wanderléa, Zeca Pagodinho, and Gilberto Gil. Roberto Carlos opened the event wearing his trademark white suit with a light blue shirt, and kicked things off by performing "Esse Cara Sou Eu," made famous through the soap opera "Salve Jorge". The festive atmosphere was not just due to the music; it was enhanced by celebratory visuals of the number '50' projected throughout the venue.
A heartfelt moment came when Carlos paid tribute to his late friend Erasmo Carlos, with whom he shared many memories. A montage of their life together played on the screens, followed by Roberto pensively singing "Amigo," emblematic of their deep connection. He also engaged the audience with classic Brazilian tunes alongside famous collaborators, including emotional renditions with Zeca Pagodinho and harmonies with Chitãozinho and Xororó.
Despite the glow of the evening, uncertainty loomed over the future of the Christmas special. During negotiations about contract renewal with Globo, Roberto was informed about the possibility of discontinuing the cherished holiday tradition, which has become synonymous with his identity over the decades. The proposals under consideration may allow him to perform on other networks such as SBT and Record but may prevent future specials from retaining the cherished format established since the 1970s. This prompted Roberto to express deep dissatisfaction with the idea, emphasizing the special's importance for his career and annual concert promotions.
The decision on whether the famed program will continue past 2025 is expected to be finalized by January, leaving fans anxious and fervently hoping for the retention of this beloved annual event. Viewers have taken to social media to express their sentiments, reminiscing about the memories tied to the show and voicing concerns about its potential cancellation.
Audience reaction from the event was overwhelmingly positive, with clips circulating on platforms showcasing both the performances and the emotional crowd engagement. Yet not all feedback was without its critics; some viewers commented on the singing abilities of invited actresses Dira Paes and Letícia Colin, sparking debates online. While some praised Sophie Charlotte for her performance, others focused on the perceived flaws of the actresses, showcasing the mixed reactions typical of high-profile events.
Roberto Carlos' special remains more than just music; it embodies the spirit of Brazilian Christmas for many, intertwining generations through heartfelt lyrics and charismatic performances. The powerful final moments of the special culminated with the group singing the timeless hit "Emoções," which echoes the essence of celebrating and cherishing life's feelings—perfect for closing such a magical night.
The upcoming negotiations will play a pivotal role as fans hope the beloved annual showcase will persist, highlighting Roberto Carlos' impact on Brazilian culture as one of its most cherished traditions. Will the Christmas special carry on, preserving the legacy and memories attached to it? Time will tell, but one thing is certain—the audience's love for Roberto Carlos remains unwavering.
