Fernanda Torres says sorry for that 2008 blackface clip now that she’s up for an Oscar.
Who’s Fernanda Torres and why is she all over the news?
Fernanda Torres, a 59-year-old Brazilian actress, recently grabbed attention when a 2008 clip of her in blackface came back into the spotlight just before her 2025 Oscar nomination.
Torres, who received recognition for her performance in I’m Still Here, issued a public apology and acknowledged the harm that the sketch had caused.
The incident has kicked off conversations about racism and historical awareness in Brazil, happening right around her nomination for Best Actress at the 97th Academy Awards.
What started the whole fuss about Torres?
The controversy comes from a Fantastico TV sketch called The Opposite Sex: The Family (Father Vs. Mother), where Torres played a maid named Dalva while using blackface.
The clip was meant to be a satire on gender roles, but it came back into the spotlight during her Oscar buzz, sparking some criticism for its racist undertones.
The sketch, which was once considered okay in Brazil’s cultural scene, is now getting a lot of backlash for keeping alive harmful stereotypes tied to the history of blackface.
What did Fernanda Torres do about the situation?
Torres said sorry through Deadline, describing her actions as “unacceptable” and showing regret for the hurt she caused.
She pointed out that back when the sketch was released, not many people in Brazil were aware of the racist history of blackface, but she highlighted that society has made some progress since then.
Torres promised to back anti-racism initiatives, saying, “As a global citizen, I’m dedicated to the important changes needed for a world without inequality.”
She quickly responded to stop any more damage and encourage responsibility.
What makes her Oscar nomination important?
Torres’ nomination for I’m Still Here makes her the second Brazilian actress to be recognized in the Best Actress category, after her mom, Fernanda Montenegro, who was nominated back in 1998.
The movie, which dives into themes of political activism and loss, also got some recognition for Best Picture and Best International Feature.
Her Golden Globe win back in January really cemented her place as a top player in the world of cinema.
What does this situation say about cultural awareness?
Torres’ apology really shows how discussions around racism and accountability in entertainment are changing.
Brazil’s past acceptance of blackface shows some cultural blind spots, but her statement highlights how crucial it is to learn and grow from these experiences.
This situation underscores the critical importance for artists to critically examine past practices and advocate for more inclusive storytelling, in alignment with global efforts to address systemic racism.
Quick Facts About Fernanda Torres
- Oscar Nominee: Nominated for Best Actress for I’m Still Here (2025).
- Golden Globe Winner: Took home the award for Best Leading Actress in a Drama in January 2025.
- Family Legacy: The second Brazilian actress to get an Oscar nomination; her mom, Fernanda Montenegro, was the first.
- Blackface Apology: Talked about the old 2008 sketch that came back up and condemned blackface.
- Activism: Supports anti-racism and cultural education after the controversy.