A Brazilian period drama is quickly becoming a talking point among LGBTQ viewers online. The HBO Max series Madam Beja, which premiered last month, is gaining attention for its queer storylines and a steamy garden-set encounter that recently went viral.
The telenovela reimagines the 1986 series Dona Beija, based on the real-life story of Ana Jacinta de São José. In the series, Ana—played by Grazi Massafera—is kidnapped by a royal court officer and held for more than two years.
After escaping and returning to her hometown of Araxá, she finds her fiancé married to another woman and faces judgment from conservative society. Determined to reclaim her independence, Ana reinvents herself as Madam Beja and opens the upscale brothel Chácara do Jatobá. Running alongside her story is Fortunato, played by João Villa, a young man from a powerful family who struggles with his sexuality while preparing for an arranged marriage.
His storyline drew major online attention after a recent episode showed him finally acting on his feelings. The series also includes other queer characters, including a trans confidante and a same-sex romance involving Madam Beja herself. The USA audience can watch the series on HBO Max.
