Juliano Floss casting in Globoplay novela sparks debate

The casting of digital influencer Juliano Floss in the upcoming Globoplay production ‘Paraíso Perdido’ has sparked debate within the Brazilian acting community. Floss is set to make his acting debut in 2027, portraying Heitor Júnior, a character who experiences intense conflict with his father, played by Alexandre Nero.

Writer and director Sérgio Goldenberg defended the decision, stating that Floss performed well during the selection process and possesses immediate chemistry with the role. Goldenberg noted that the choice was made by a group that analyzed candidate tests and cited historical precedents of directors using non-actors to justify the practice.

Actor Bruno Fagundes criticized the move on social media, arguing that popularity and charisma do not substitute for the technical training and experience required to convey complex dramatic layers. He expressed concern that professional actors might lose opportunities to influencers. The controversy has also drawn attention from the Rio de Janeiro Union of Artists and Technicians (Sated-RJ), which has advocated for more opportunities for trained professionals.