Actor João Victor Gonçalves Faces Homophobic Harassment at Rock in Rio, Sparking Public Outcry

João Victor Gonçalves, a 24-year-old actor known for his role as Mau Mau in the TV Globo novela "Quem Ama Cuida," was subjected to homophobic harassment during the Rock in Rio festival on the evening of September 4, 2026. The incident, captured on video and viral on social media, shows Gonçalves being mocked by a group of young men about his clothing and appearance while leaving the festival. Notably, the harassment was broadcast during a live stream by streamer GH, which intensified public attention to the episode.

In the footage, the group follows Gonçalves, hurling derogatory remarks such as "You're horrible! Very ugly!" and even raising a black bag towards him. Despite the provocations, Gonçalves remained silent and continued walking. The festival organizers clarified that the incident occurred outside their monitored security area and encouraged safer transport options for attendees. The Civil Police confirmed that no official complaint had yet been filed regarding the episode.

Gonçalves addressed the harassment in an emotional social media post, connecting it to his character Mau Mau, a young man confronting structural homophobia within his family. "Mau Mau is a strong, brave character who swallows it and moves on. Perhaps that is what I did today," he wrote. He emphatically stated, "Homophobia is not entertainment," emphasizing that the viral video should not be treated as such. The actor also vowed that the attackers would face consequences, underscoring that homophobia is a crime.

Streamer GH subsequently issued an apology, explaining that the live stream was intended for entertainment purposes and denying any homophobic intent behind the comments.

The incident prompted widespread support from Brazilian public figures including Liniker, Eliana, Gil do Vigor, Luana Piovani, and Marcos Mion. Gil do Vigor notably recorded a message of solidarity, condemning homophobia and reflecting on his personal experiences with discrimination. He underscored the need to end such violence and hold perpetrators accountable.

Brazil’s Supreme Court classified homophobia as a crime in 2019, equating it legally with racism and imposing penalties ranging from one to five years in prison, community service, or fines. This legal context frames current discussions on such incidents occurring in high-profile public settings like Rock in Rio.

As the situation unfolds, João Victor Gonçalves’ experience spotlights ongoing societal challenges with homophobic prejudice in Brazil, galvanizing debates on respect, safety, and justice for LGBTQ+ individuals in public spaces.