Paulo César Pereio: A Life of Brilliance and Controversy

Renowned Brazilian actor and director Paulo César Pereio passed away on Sunday, June 12, at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of cinematic excellence and controversy. His ex-wife, actress and presenter Cissa Guimarães, paid tribute to him on Instagram, saying, "Shine, as always, on the stages and screens of heaven, so that we may all be blessed by your talent, your truth, and your courage."

A Life of Rebellion

Known for his unpredictable behavior and unyielding rebelliousness, Pereio was a defender of freedom of expression and social criticism. He was a key figure in the Brazilian Cinema Novo movement, which emerged in the 1960s and sought to create a more realistic and critical cinema.

Throughout his career, Pereio worked on over 60 films and collaborated with prominent directors such as Glauber Rocha, Hector Babenco, and Arnaldo Jabor. He was inspired by American actor Humphrey Bogart, a symbol of masculinity in the 1940s and 1950s, and like Bogart, Pereio was known for his strong screen presence and distinctive voice.

A Life of Controversy

Pereio's life was not without controversy. In 2007, he launched a campaign to demolish the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, calling it a "work of an Italian engineer" rather than a work of art. He also spent six days in prison in 1994 for failing to pay alimony to his ex-wife, Cissa Guimarães.

In 2012, Pereio briefly ventured into politics, running for a seat on the São Paulo city council, but his bid was unsuccessful. He also appeared in a documentary, "Peréio, Eu Te Odeio" (I Hate You), which showcased his life in a humorous and irreverent way.

Pereio's life was marked by excesses and controversies, but his talent and dedication to his craft were undeniable. As his friend and fellow actor Stepan Nercessian said, "Pereio was the actor who worked the most in his life. He didn't rest. Wherever he was, there was theater."

As the Brazilian film industry mourns the loss of this cinematic giant, his legacy will continue to inspire and provoke generations to come.

A Life of Love and Family

Despite his tumultuous life, Pereio was a devoted father and husband. He was married to Cissa Guimarães from 1976 to 1990 and had two sons, Tomás and João Velho, with her. He also had a close relationship with his grandchildren, who will carry on his legacy.

In a heartfelt tribute, Cissa Guimarães wrote, "We built a life together, my love. And now we have our beautiful grandchildren to continue that love, which will be eternal."

As the Brazilian film industry says goodbye to this brilliant and complex figure, his memory will live on through his body of work and the lives he touched.