On Saturday, February 1, 2025, renowned Brazilian actor Tony Ramos graced the set of É de Casa, where he shared insights on the cultural significance of traditional television, even in the face of rising streaming platforms. At 76 years old, Ramos passionately defended the intrinsic value of open television, echoing sentiments held dear by many who grew up with it.
During his appearance, Ramos emphasized, "Não há nada ainda que superou isso. Ao vivo, então, nada supera" (There is nothing yet to surpass this. Live, nothing surpasses this), highlighting television's real-time action and audience engagement. He elaborated on the special connection many viewers find with shows, particularly during moments of solitude. "Penso nela, penso nas senhoras que estão, às vezes, sozinhas em suas casas" (I think of her, I think of the ladies who are sometimes alone at home), Ramos expressed, referring to his elderly audience and their needs for companionship.
The star of numerous soap operas reflected on how he approaches his roles, often thinking of the families of his characters and, more personally, his own family. "Quando eu faço uma novela, eu faço ali pensando: 'vou fazer essa cena, minha mãe vai ver'. Minha mulher vai ver, minha filha vai ver" (When I do a soap opera, I do it thinking: 'my mom will see this scene.' My wife will see, my daughter will see. I do it for who is the audience, it’s our daily life), he shared, showcasing the intimate relationship actors develop with not just their characters, but with their viewers. This consideration speaks to the carefully curated stories meant to resonate with diverse audiences.
Ramos also took time to praise the team behind É de Casa for their ability to connect with the public. He believes shows like these play pivotal roles, especially for viewers who might otherwise feel isolated. No longer simply showcases for entertainment, these programs have become communal spaces for discussions and shared experiences.
Throughout his illustrious career, Ramos has continually adapted to the changing media landscapes. He acknowledged the challenges of appealing to varying tastes, stating, “Faz parte do jogo ter novelas que agradem mais do que outras” (It’s part of the game to have soap operas appeal more than others). Such insight allows audiences to understand the dynamic nature of television and its shifting narratives.
His passion for authenticity extends beyond performance; Ramos revealed his practice of learning accents for his roles. He often listens to recordings of indigenous voices from the regions he portrays, ensuring his representations are respectful and accurate. This dedication only adds to the depth of his characters and has secured his standing as one of Brazil’s iconic actors.
Looking forward, Ramos is set to star in the upcoming novela Dona de Mim, where he will play the character Abel, the heir to and president of a prominent lingerie factory located in suburban Rio de Janeiro. His preparation for this role has already begun alongside his fellow actors Clara Moneke and Elis Cabral, marking yet another chapter in his already storied career.
With his thoughtful reflections on the power of television and the responsibilities of storytelling, Tony Ramos not only champions the role of traditional media but also serves as inspiration for future generations of actors and storytellers. His work undeniably continues to bridge generations, ensuring their stories are shared and their experiences validated through the powerful medium of television.