Madonna’s recent mega show in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, attracted a crowd of 1.6 million people, including supporters of right-wing ex-president Jair Bolsonaro. Despite criticism from some conservatives labeling the singer as a “satanist,” prominent Bolsonaristas were among those in attendance at the event on Copacabana beach.
Among the attendees were Jair Bolsonaro’s lawyer and former communications secretary, Fabio Wajngarten, Rio’s Bolsonarista governor, Cláudio Castro, and Bolsonarista senator, Jorge Seif. Despite the conservative backlash against Madonna’s performance, these Bolsonaro supporters were seen enjoying the show.
Wajngarten was captured on video enthusiastically reacting to Madonna’s performance, although his dance moves were not well-received by Brazilian critics. Additionally, some attendees, like Seif, publicly apologized for attending what they deemed an inappropriate event, going against their ideals of defending family and Judaeo-Christian values.
During the show, Madonna stirred controversy by performing with Brazilian drag queen and singer Pabllo Vittar, further provoking Bolsonaro supporters who oppose LGBTQ+ representation. The presence of flags representing Brazil’s far-right religious nationalist movement added to the tension felt by the Bolsonarista attendees.
The event highlighted the clash between Madonna’s empowering and feminist image and the traditional beliefs held by Bolsonaro’s supporters. The Brazilian leftists viewed the attendance of Bolsonaristas at the show as a glaring example of right-wing hypocrisy, celebrating Madonna’s concert as a challenge to Bolsonaro’s conservative ideologies.
Overall, Madonna’s performance in Rio de Janeiro became a focal point for political debate in Brazil, symbolizing the ongoing cultural and ideological divisions within the country. The event showcased the complexities of modern Brazilian society and the challenges faced by those trying to navigate between traditional values and progressive ideals.