Brazil has produced many influential figures in various fields, including sports, music, politics, literature, and entertainment. Here are 20 of the most famous Brazilians, listed by category:
Sports
- Pelé – Legendary football player, often considered the greatest of all time.
- Ayrton Senna – Iconic Formula 1 driver and three-time world champion.
- Ronaldo Nazário (Ronaldo) – Football legend and two-time FIFA World Cup winner.
- Neymar Jr. – Modern football superstar and global icon.
- Marta Vieira da Silva – One of the greatest female football players in history.
Music
- João Gilberto – Pioneer of bossa nova music.
- Tom Jobim (Antônio Carlos Jobim) – Composer of “The Girl from Ipanema” and a major figure in Brazilian music.
- Caetano Veloso – Singer, songwriter, and key figure in the Tropicália movement.
- Gilberto Gil – Renowned musician and former Brazilian Minister of Culture.
- Anitta – Global pop star with a strong influence on contemporary Brazilian music.
Politics and Activism
- Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (Lula) – Current president and former president of Brazil.
- Dilma Rousseff – Brazil’s first female president.
- Chico Mendes – Environmentalist and activist for the Amazon rainforest.
Literature and Arts
- Paulo Coelho – Author of The Alchemist, one of the best-selling books in history.
- Jorge Amado – Celebrated novelist known for works like Gabriela, Clove and Cinnamon.
Film and Television
- Fernanda Montenegro – Acclaimed actress and Oscar nominee for Central Station.
- Sônia Braga – Renowned actress with a prominent career in both Brazilian and international cinema.
Business and Fashion
- Gisele Bündchen – International supermodel and environmental activist.
Science and Academia
- Carlos Chagas – Physician and scientist known for discovering Chagas disease.
- Oswaldo Cruz – Pioneering physician and epidemiologist in public health.
These individuals have left a significant mark on Brazil’s culture, history, and global presence.
