Brazilian TV presenter Eliana network switch controversy

In late July 2026, veteran presenter Marcia Goldschmidt criticized Eliana’s 2024 move from SBT to TV Globo, saying the presenter had “lost her identity” after leaving the network where she built her reputation. The same period saw the launch of a new season of *Caldeirão com Mion*, featuring a game segment that paired actors from a popular novela with social‑media influencers.

By early August, Globo approved international trips for Eliana to add a travel‑reporting segment to her new Sunday show *Em Família*, a move prompted by low audience ratings. On SBT’s gossip program *Fofocalizando*, host Carol Lekker publicly denounced Eliana, sparking a backlash on social media. SBT clarified that Lekker’s absence from the following broadcast was pre‑scheduled, and she later issued an apology while reaffirming respect for Eliana. Fellow SBT presenter Sônia Abrão called for Lekker’s dismissal, intensifying the dispute.

The dispute intensified on August 3, when Lekker again attacked Eliana on‑air, labeling her “falling behind.” The comments triggered a wave of online threats. Lekker posted an emotional video apologising and said her remarks targeted the programme format, not Eliana personally. SBT announced she would not be dismissed but placed on a short mental‑health leave, with a meeting scheduled and a possible return after a few days.

On August 4, Lekker issued a public apology emphasizing her admiration for Eliana and reiterating that her criticism was aimed at the show’s format. SBT reiterated that the leave was health‑related, not a termination, and indicated she would resume her duties after a brief rest. The episode continued to draw commentary from journalist Sonia Abrão, who had earlier called for Lekker’s removal, fueling further public exchanges between the media figures.