A Sucessora (1978)
A haunting Brazilian telenovela about love, obsession, and the long shadow cast by a dead woman over the living.
A Sucessora - Series Information
- Original Title: A Sucessora
- First Air Year: 1978
- Last Air Year: 1979
- Created by: Manoel Carlos
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama, Soap
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 126
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Portuguese
- Spoken Languages: Portuguese
- First Air Date: October 9, 1978 (Brazil - L)
- Networks: TV Globo
- Production Countries: Brazil
A Sucessora - Plot
The story follows the experiences of Marina, a young country bumpkin who marries the mysterious and charismatic widower Roberto Stein, a fabulously wealthy businessman living in 1920s Rio de Janeiro. As Marina attempts to acclimate to her new marriage and responsibilities, she discovers that Stein's late wife, Alice, still seems to have a strong hold over the household. Despite her new husband's affection for her, Marina is nonetheless threatened by Alice's presence, which is made conspicuous through her old maid Juliana's obsessions and her intimidating portrait.
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A Sucessora - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Manoel Carlos
Main Cast
- Susana Vieira
- Rubens de Falco
- Nathália Timberg
- Paulo Figueiredo
- Arlete Salles
- Kadu Moliterno
- Liza Vieira
- Mário Cardoso
- Heloísa Helena
- Célia Biar
Writers
- Manoel Carlos
A Sucessora - FAQs
Is A Sucessora based on a true story?
A Sucessora is not based on a true story, but it draws heavily from Daphne du Maurier's classic 1938 gothic novel Rebecca. Writer Manoel Carlos transposed the story's brooding atmosphere and psychological tension to 1920s Rio de Janeiro, giving it a distinctly Brazilian identity while preserving the novel's haunting emotional core.
Who plays the lead role in A Sucessora?
Susana Vieira plays Marina Becker Steen, the young protagonist at the heart of the story. Her portrayal of a naive country girl navigating the oppressive grandeur of her husband's household — and the shadow of his first wife — became one of the most celebrated performances of her career.
What is A Sucessora about?
Set in 1920s Rio de Janeiro, the telenovela follows Marina, a young woman who marries Roberto Steen, a wealthy and mysterious widower. As she settles into her new life, she finds herself overshadowed by the memory of his first wife, Alice, whose presence lingers through a devoted maid and an imposing portrait.
Where can I watch A Sucessora?
Streaming availability for A Sucessora varies by region. Check JustWatch for the most up-to-date viewing options in your country, as the platform aggregates current streaming, rental, and purchase options across multiple services to help you find where it's available near you.
Who created and wrote A Sucessora?
A Sucessora was created and written by Manoel Carlos, one of Brazil's most celebrated telenovela writers. Known for his emotionally rich storytelling and complex female characters, Manoel Carlos went on to create numerous iconic TV Globo productions throughout his distinguished career.
How many episodes does A Sucessora have?
A Sucessora ran for 126 episodes across a single season, airing on TV Globo from October 1978 to 1979. The extended episode count is typical of Brazilian telenovelas, allowing the story to develop its characters and psychological drama at a measured, immersive pace.
What is the gothic atmosphere of A Sucessora like?
The series builds its tension through psychological unease rather than supernatural horror. The late wife Alice never appears on screen, yet her presence dominates every scene — through Juliana's obsessive loyalty, the imposing portrait, and Roberto's guarded silences. This slow-burn dread is what makes the telenovela so compelling.
What are some shows similar to A Sucessora?
Fans of A Sucessora may enjoy other classic Brazilian telenovelas such as Jezabel, Tieta, The Slave Isaura, and The Thorn and the Rose, all of which share similarly rich period settings, emotionally driven narratives, and strong female protagonists navigating complex social and romantic circumstances.
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