Claudia Raia recalls how Jô Soares saved her life

During an appearance on the program ‘Sem Censura’ on TV Brasil, actress Claudia Raia reflected on her deep friendship and professional relationship with the late presenter Jô Soares. Raia described Soares as a pivotal figure in her life, noting that he influenced her career decisions and even helped shape her professional identity by suggesting she use the name Claudia Raia instead of Maria Cláudia.

Raia revealed that Soares played a critical role in her health by detecting a suspicious spot on her leg. He referred her to Dr. Drauzio Varella, who diagnosed it as cancerous melanoma. Raia stated that this intervention ‘saved my life,’ as the condition could have led to the amputation of her leg within two years.

Additionally, the actress recalled her time working on the comedy show ‘Viva o Gordo’ in the 1980s and shared a compliment Soares once gave her regarding her unique presence in the industry.