Ratinho faces legal complaint after homophobic remark on SBT

SBT presenter Ratinho is facing legal scrutiny and criticism following a homophobic remark made during a live broadcast on August 5, 2026. While commenting on the new platinum hair of singer Tiago Piquilo, Ratinho stated, “You have a face of a 'viado' [slur].”

The comment led to a criminal complaint filed with the Public Ministry of São Paulo by Agripino Magalhães Júnior, president of the São Paulo LGBTQIAPN+ Pride Association. The complaint alleges that the remark constitutes hate speech and incitement to discrimination, seeking a criminal prosecution that could carry a sentence of 2 to 5 years of imprisonment.

Daniela Abravanel Beyruti, president of SBT, addressed the situation, stating she intends to discuss the matter with the presenter regarding the responsibility of his statements. While defending Ratinho by suggesting his behavior stems from his generation and lacks malicious intent, she acknowledged the impact of his words, noting, “even if the joke wasn't intended to hurt someone, it hurts.”