Portrait of Rubens de Falco

Rubens de Falco

Acting

Biography

Rubens de Falco was a distinguished Brazilian actor celebrated for his commanding presence and memorable portrayals of antagonists. He began his artistic journey in theater, joining the São Paulo-based group Os Jograis in 1955 alongside Ruy Afonso, Ítalo Rossi, and Felipe Wagner. His film debut came earlier, in 1952, with a small role in Apassionata, produced by the legendary Vera Cruz studio. De Falco became a household name through his work in Brazilian telenovelas, particularly for his villainous roles. His most iconic performance was as Leôncio Almeida in Escrava Isaura (1976), a role that defined his career and became a cultural touchstone. He reprised a related role in the 2004 remake, appearing as Comendador Almeida, Leôncio’s father. His television credits include Gabriela (1975), O Grito (1975), Dona Xepa (1977), Sinhá Moça (1986), and Os Imigrantes (1981), among many others. Known for his blue eyes, distinctive triangular mustache, and smooth baritone voice, Rubens de Falco brought elegance and intensity to every role. In 2006, a stroke left him unable to speak or act, and he spent his final years in assisted care. Despite this, his legacy as one of Brazil’s greatest actors remains firmly intact.

Born: October 19, 1931

Place of Birth: São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil

Filmography

2001
Sonhos Tropicais

as General Travassos

1998
Brida

as Vargas

1997
Os Ossos do Barão

as Cândido Caldas Penteado

1994
1991
Salomé

as McGregor

1989
Pacto de Sangue

as Abílio Mendonça

1987
Bambolê

as Nestor Barreto

1986
Sinhá Moça

as Coronel José Ferreira, Barão de Araruna

1985
1985
1984
Viver a Vida

as Rodolfo

1984
Macho y hembra

as Vicente

1984
Padre Cícero

as Floro Bartholomeu

1981
Os Imigrantes

as Antônio di Salvio

1980
Pixote

as Judge

1979
Gaivotas

as Daniel

1979
Colonel Delmiro Gouveia

as Delmiro Gouveia

1978
A Sucessora

as Roberto Steen

1977
O Astro

as Samir Hayala

1977
Especial O Astro

as Samir Hayala

1977
Dona Xepa

as Heitor Camargo

1976
Escrava Isaura

as Leôncio Correia de Almeida

1975
1975
O Grito

as Agenor

1975
1975
Gabriela

as João Pimentel

1975
Escalada

as Comendador

1974
Supermanoela

as Diógenes

1969
1968
The Man Who Bought the World

as Imperador Maximiliano

1968
Passo dos Ventos

as René Antoine

1966
O Rei dos Ciganos

as Claude Ludenwerg

1959