Chay Suede

Chay Suede, born Roobertchay Domingues da Rocha Filho on June 30, 1992, in Vila Velha, Espírito Santo, Brazil, is a prominent Brazilian actor and singer-songwriter known for his versatile performances in television, film, and music.^[1][2] Rising to fame in the early 2010s, he has become one of Brazil's leading young actors, starring in major telenovelas produced by Rede Globo and earning multiple accolades for his dramatic roles.^[3] Suede's career began in music when he competed in the fifth season of the talent show Ídolos on RecordTV in 2010, finishing in fourth place and gaining initial recognition as a vocalist.^[2] This led to his acting debut in the musical telenovela Rebelde (2011–2012), where he portrayed Tomás Campos Sales Penedo and also performed with the affiliated band Rebeldes, releasing music that topped Brazilian charts. Transitioning fully to acting, he starred in historical dramas like Novo Mundo (2017) as the idealistic performer Joaquim Martinho and action-oriented roles such as Ícaro, a capoeira practitioner, in Segundo Sol (2018), for which he underwent intensive physical training including weightlifting and boxing.^[4][5] His film work includes the biographical musical Minha Fama de Mau (2019), where he played Erasmo Carlos.^[6] More recent television highlights feature complex characters like the overprotected Danilo in Amor de Mãe (2019–2020), the young José Alfredo in the original Império (2014), and the idealist Ari in Travessia (2022–2023), as well as Mavi Salama Alves in Mania de Você (2024–2025), showcasing his range from vulnerability to intensity.^[7][8] In music, Suede released his self-titled debut album in 2013, blending pop and indie styles, though he has since described it as a hobby while prioritizing acting.^[9] His contributions earned early awards, including Best Young Singer at the Prêmio Jovem Brasileiro in 2012.^[3] Over his career, Suede has received 12 wins and 9 nominations, including Best Actor honors at the Prêmio Extra de Televisão for Império (2014) and Troféu Imprensa for Segundo Sol (2019), as well as recent recognition like the APCA Trophy for Best Actor in 2025.^[3][10] On a personal note, Suede married actress Laura Neiva in 2019 after dating since 2014; the couple has three children, including daughter Maria (born 2019), son José (born 2021), and daughter Ana (born 2024).^[1] He has spoken openly about balancing fatherhood with his demanding career, once considering stepping away from acting before his breakthrough in Império.^[11] Suede maintains a low-key family life in Rio de Janeiro, occasionally sharing insights into his creative process through interviews.^[9]

Early life

Birth and upbringing

Roobertchay Domingues da Rocha Filho, professionally known as Chay Suede, was born on 30 June 1992 in Vila Velha, a coastal city in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil.^[12] Vila Velha, the oldest municipality in Espírito Santo founded in 1535, features a mix of historical landmarks such as the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary and modern urban development along its beaches, providing a backdrop of natural beauty and cultural heritage for his early years. He was raised in a humble Christian household in the Santo Antônio suburb near Vitória, the state capital, where family life emphasized faith and modest living conditions.^[13] Suede is the son of Roobertchay Domingues da Rocha, a non-professional musician who composed songs and formed a band called Semear with his wife, and Hérica Godoy, a journalist, public speaker, and former homemaker who later pursued higher education.^[14][15][16] Suede has five siblings, including one full sibling from his parents' union, with the others being half-siblings; notable among them are his younger sisters Anelise Duarte, Maressa Luiza, and Ane Godoy, who have occasionally shared family moments publicly.^[17][18][19] His upbringing in this extended family environment fostered close-knit bonds, though specific details on early living conditions highlight a supportive yet unpretentious setting influenced by his parents' artistic inclinations.^[20]

Early influences and education

Chay Suede, born Roobertchay Domingues da Rocha Filho, spent his early years in the Santo Antônio suburb of Vila Velha, Espírito Santo, where he attended a Baptist school as part of his family's evangelical Christian background.^[21] Growing up in a musical household, he was exposed to performing arts through his parents' band, with whom he traveled across Brazil during his childhood, fostering an early appreciation for music as a family activity.^[13] His father's ownership of a video rental store in nearby Vitória further immersed him in cinema, where at age 15 he discovered the film Johnny Suede (1991), which inspired his stage name and sparked an interest in storytelling and screenwriting.^[14] During his teenage years, Suede developed hobbies centered on creative expression, including playing guitar at family gatherings and composing music influenced by a mix of international icons like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, the Beatles, and Bob Marley, alongside Brazilian genres such as carimbó and brega.^[13][14] At school, he did not align with typical peer groups like athletes or academics, instead identifying as an artist from a young age and forming a close bond with a creative friend as early as age five, which helped build his self-esteem through artistic pursuits.^[21] He also participated in church activities, such as caring for younger children, which honed his interpersonal skills and reinforced his evangelical upbringing's emphasis on community.^[21] Suede completed his secondary education in Espírito Santo before passing the vestibular entrance exam for the Cinema program at the Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES), though he ultimately did not enroll to pursue other opportunities.^[14] His early exposure to films like O Auto da Compadecida left a lasting impression, blending regional Brazilian narratives with his growing fascination for music and performance, shaping his conceptual understanding of arts without formal training at the time.^[14] This foundation in Espírito Santo's cultural environment, combined with familial encouragement—particularly from his father—laid the groundwork for his later artistic development, prior to relocating to Rio de Janeiro in 2010 for professional prospects.^[13][14]

Career

Early career (2010–2013)

Suede's entry into the entertainment industry began in 2010 with his participation in the fifth season of the singing competition Ídolos on RecordTV, where he finished in fourth place after captivating audiences with performances like "Alegria, Alegria" and "Feche os Olhos."^[22][23] His charismatic stage presence and vocal style earned strong fan support, particularly from teenagers, positioning him as a rising talent in Brazilian pop music.^[24] This exposure from Ídolos quickly transitioned into acting opportunities, with Suede making his debut in the telenovela Rebelde (2011–2012) on RecordTV, where he portrayed Tomás Campos Sales Penedo, one of the six protagonists. Tomás is depicted as a skilled swimmer and heir to a vast fortune, supporting his extravagant but troubled family while navigating pressures from his strict grandmother to abandon his carefree lifestyle for greater responsibility; the character's romantic entanglements and band involvement drive much of the plot's teen drama.^[25] The role amplified Suede's appeal as a teen idol, drawing large young audiences to the show and enhancing his public image through the associated music group Rebeldes.^[26] In 2013, after Rebelde concluded and the Rebeldes group disbanded, Suede released his self-titled debut solo album on October 18, shifting focus to his individual artistry in pop and rock genres.^[27] The album highlights include the lead single "Papel," a upbeat track about fleeting emotions, and "Segredo," a duet with Manu Gavassi exploring hidden feelings, both of which exemplified his youthful, relatable songwriting style.^[28]

Rise to prominence (2014–2018)

In 2014, Chay Suede signed a long-term contract with Rede Globo, marking his transition from Rede Record to Brazil's leading television network. This move came after his rising popularity from earlier roles, positioning him for more prominent opportunities in prime-time programming. His debut on Globo was in the telenovela Império, where he played the young José Alfredo Medeiros in the telenovela's first phase, depicting the character's humble origins in Northeast Brazil and his early struggles before rising to wealth through the jewelry trade. Airing from July 2014 to March 2015, the role earned widespread acclaim for Suede's authentic portrayal of a determined, charismatic youth, complete with a convincing regional accent that resonated with audiences and critics alike. His brief but impactful appearance—spanning just the initial episodes—captured public sympathy, with viewers lamenting his character's exit as the story shifted to an older version played by Alexandre Nero, solidifying Suede's reputation as a versatile leading man. The telenovela's success, averaging high ratings, highlighted his ability to convey emotional depth and ambition, boosting his profile significantly.^[29][30][31] In 2015, Suede portrayed Rafael Marcondes in Babilônia, a young man navigating family secrets, social prejudices, and romantic relationships amid themes of inequality and urban life in Rio de Janeiro.^[32] Parallel to his acting career, Suede expanded into music by forming the band Aymoréco in 2015 alongside musician Diogo Strausz, blending indie rock, electronic elements, and alternative sounds to create a fresh Brazilian act. The group released their self-titled debut EP in December 2015, featuring four tracks that showcased Suede's songwriting and vocals, followed by a full-length album in 2016 under Universal Music. Singles like "Chuva de Likes" gained traction for their playful critique of social media obsession, reflecting the band's innovative mix of genres and helping establish Aymoréco in the indie scene. During this period, Suede also pursued solo endeavors, releasing tracks that built on his earlier musical background while balancing his growing television commitments.^[33][34][35] By 2017, Suede starred as Joaquim Martinho in Novo Mundo, a historical telenovela set during Brazil's independence era, where his character served as a heroic sailor and loyal ally to Dom Pedro I (played by Caio Castro). The role allowed Suede to explore themes of adventure, patriotism, and romance amid the fight for Brazilian sovereignty from Portugal, earning praise for his dynamic portrayal of a swashbuckling protagonist who aids in key historical events. This performance further cemented his status as a multifaceted talent, bridging dramatic acting with musical pursuits and appealing to a broad audience during the show's run.^[4][36]

Established career (2019–present)

Following the success of his role in Segundo Sol, where he portrayed Ícaro Batista dos Santos, Suede's performance earned him critical acclaim and multiple award nominations in early 2019, solidifying his transition to more complex dramatic characters. In 2019, Suede took on the lead role of Danilo Lopes Viana (later revealed as Domênico dos Santos Silva), the biological son of Lurdes (Regina Casé) and adopted son of the possessive Thelma (Adriana Esteves), in the telenovela Amor de Mãe. The series, which aired from November 2019 to April 2021, explored themes of maternal love, identity, and family secrets, with Suede's portrayal of a young man grappling with his past receiving praise for its emotional depth. Production halted in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in a nearly year-long hiatus before resuming with strict health protocols; Suede later reflected on the challenges of filming amid the crisis, noting it added realism to the storyline's tension.^[7][37] That same year, Suede made his mark in film with Minha Fama de Mau, a biographical drama directed by Lui Farias, in which he played the young Erasmo Carlos during the singer's early career in 1970s Rio de Janeiro. The role required Suede to embody the rock pioneer's passion for music amid societal pressures, and he contributed original songs to the soundtrack, including a rendition of the title track. The film premiered in June 2019 and highlighted Suede's versatility in blending acting with musical performance.^[38] Alongside his acting, Suede continued his music career with the band Aymoréco, which maintained a low-key presence with occasional collaborations after their 2016 album. No major new releases followed through 2025, but the band saw renewed interest through streaming and live performances. Suede returned to television in 2022 with the role of Ariovaldo "Ari" Fernandes de Souza in Travessia, a drama that aired until 2023 and centered on ambition, identity theft, and digital-age ethics. As the idealistic yet opportunistic son of a humble family, Ari's arc involved relocating from Maranhão to Rio de Janeiro, where he navigates moral dilemmas; Suede's performance was noted for capturing the character's internal conflicts, though the series faced mixed reviews overall.^[8] In 2024, Suede starred as the manipulative Mavi Salama Alves in Mania de Você, a HBO Max and Globo co-production that ran through March 2025, delving into themes of obsession, friendship, and betrayal among young adults. His portrayal of the charismatic yet scheming protagonist, who becomes entangled in a murder mystery, earned him awards including the Melhores do Ano for Best Actor in 2024 and the APCA Trophy for Best Actor in 2025.^[39][40][41] In late 2025, Suede announced his stage debut in the play Peça Infantil - A Vida e as Opiniões do Cavalheiro Roobertchay, directed by Felipe Hirsch and written by Caetano W. Galindo, set to premiere on January 15, 2026, at Teatro Casa Grande in Rio de Janeiro. He also prepared for upcoming film and series projects, including a yet-untitled role requiring a shaved-head look, signaling a deliberate shift toward diverse mediums after a decade of television dominance. No directing credits emerged in this period, despite early indications of interest.^[42][43][44]

Personal life

Relationships

Chay Suede's first publicly known romantic relationship was with actress and singer Sophia Abrahão, whom he met while co-starring in the 2010 Brazilian telenovela Rebelde. The couple began dating in November 2010 and confirmed their relationship in June 2011 after seven months together, but they separated in August 2011.^[45][46] Following this, Suede entered a relationship with singer and actress Manu Gavassi in 2011, which lasted until 2014. The pair kept their early romance private, only gradually sharing details publicly, and their three-year partnership drew media attention due to their rising fame in the entertainment industry.^[47][48] In July 2014, Suede began dating actress Laura Neiva, whom he first admired while watching her in the film Fading Gigolo on television. Their relationship became one of Brazil's most followed celebrity couples, with frequent media coverage of their outings and collaborations. However, they experienced a brief separation in April 2016 after one year and seven months together, citing the need for space; they reconciled two months later in June 2016, resuming public appearances together.^[49][50][51] Suede proposed to Neiva in March 2017 during a surprise moment on the live TV program Amor & Sexo, where he publicly declared his love and commitment. The couple married on February 2, 2019, in an intimate garden ceremony at their São Paulo home, attended by close family and friends, with details shared through official videography and photos. In interviews, Suede has described their bond as resilient, emphasizing mutual support and passion as key to their enduring partnership. As of 2025, Suede and Neiva continue to be married, occasionally discussing relationship insights in media outlets.^[52][53][54]

Family

Chay Suede and his wife, actress Laura Neiva, are parents to three children: daughter Maria, born on December 25, 2019; son José, born on November 17, 2021; and daughter Ana, born on November 8, 2024.^[55][56][57] The couple, married since 2019, maintains a close-knit family unit centered on their children, often sharing glimpses of their parenting experiences through social media and interviews.^[58] The family resides in a 500-square-meter home in São Paulo, which they acquired nearly a decade ago and have since personalized with meaningful furnishings and decor reflecting their shared history.^[59] Suede has described family life as a "malabarismo" (juggling act), balancing his acting career with hands-on parenting, including trips without nannies to foster connection among the children.^[60] In April 2025, the family traveled to the Amazon, where Suede posted photos emphasizing their emphasis on nature and togetherness.^[61] Suede occasionally celebrates extended family milestones publicly, such as his father Robertchay Rocha's 56th birthday in August 2025, where he shared rare photos with his five siblings: sisters Luiza and Maria Alice, and brothers Henrique, Guilherme, and Lucas.^[62] These gatherings highlight the supportive dynamics within the Rocha family, though Suede tends to keep most household and sibling interactions private.

Filmography

Television

Chay Suede first appeared on television as a contestant in the fifth season of the reality competition series Ídolos, which aired in 2010 on Rede Record, where he finished in fourth place.^[63] His acting debut came in the telenovela Rebelde (2011–2012) on Rede Record, where he portrayed Tomás Campos Sales Penedo, a talented student and musician at the Elite Way School, and was also a member of the fictional band Rebeldes.^[64] In 2012, he appeared as himself in the special holiday program Rebeldes para Sempre, a musical farewell special for the series. From 2013 to 2014, Suede hosted the youth-oriented music and variety show Hora do Chay on MTV Brasil.^[2] He made a guest appearance as Gerson in the episode "A Cura da Mão Ressequida" of the biblical series Milagres de Jesus in 2014 on Rede Record.^[64] That same year, in the telenovela Império (2014–2015) on TV Globo, he played the young José Alfredo Medeiros, the future Comendador, in the show's opening episodes. In 2015, Suede portrayed Rafael Petruccheli Amaral, a young architect involved in family and romantic conflicts, in the telenovela Babilônia on TV Globo.^[64] He returned for the first phase of the telenovela A Lei do Amor (2016–2017) on TV Globo, playing the young Pedro Guedes Leitão, a rebellious teenager in a story of forbidden love. In 2017, Suede starred as Joaquim Martinho (also known as Tinga), an adventurous gold prospector and romantic lead opposite Anna, in the historical telenovela Novo Mundo on TV Globo. He appeared as the guest character RockMor in the episode "Uma Nova Ameaça" of the children's series Valentins in 2018 on TV Globo. From 2018 to 2019, Suede played Ícaro Batista dos Santos, a resilient young man from a humble background navigating love and family secrets in Boiporã, in the telenovela Segundo Sol on TV Globo. Suede took on the dual role of Danilo Lopes Nunes and his alter ego Domênico dos Santos Silva in the telenovela Amor de Mãe (2019–2020, with a second season in 2021) on TV Globo, portraying a multifaceted character dealing with identity, ambition, and maternal bonds. In the telenovela Travessia (2022–2023) on TV Globo, he portrayed Ariovaldo Fernandes de Souza (Ari), an architect entangled in themes of infidelity, technology, and personal redemption. From 2024 to 2025, Suede starred as the antagonist Mavi, a charismatic and ambitious businessman, in the telenovela Mania de Você on TV Globo.^[40]

Film

Chay Suede entered the film industry in the early 2010s, taking on supporting roles in Brazilian comedies and dramas before securing leads in biographical and dramatic features. His cinematic output, though smaller than his television work, showcases his versatility in portraying young, complex characters amid social and personal conflicts. Suede's feature film appearances include:

• Lascados (2013): Portrayed Felipe, a supporting character in this road-trip comedy about friends on a chaotic adventure.
• Jonas (2015): Appeared as Fê in this coming-of-age story centered on a teenager's sexual awakening.^[65]
• A Frente Fria que a Chuva Traz (2015): Played Espeto, a supporting role in the drama about urban youth and fleeting relationships, directed by Marcos Dutra.
• Milagres de Jesus - O Filme (2016): Took on the role of Gerson in this faith-based drama adapting biblical stories.
• O Banquete (2018): Played Ted, a supporting character in the thriller exploring moral dilemmas among friends.
• Rasga Coração (2018): Portrayed Luca in the supporting role within this heartfelt family drama.
• Domingo (2019): Acted as Mauro, a lead figure in the existential drama about loss and memory, directed by Fellipe Barbosa.
• Minha Fama de Mau (2019): Delivered a lead performance as the young Erasmo Carlos in this musical biopic chronicling the rocker's rise during Brazil's Jovem Guarda era.^[66]
• O Sofá (2019): Appeared as Pharaó in this short-form drama, though expanded to feature length in some releases, focusing on intimate relationships.^[67]
• A Jaula (2021): Starred as Djalma in the lead for this psychological thriller about isolation and revenge, directed by André Ristum.^[68]
• Dona Lurdes - O Filme (2024): Played Domênico dos Santos Silva (dual role with Danilo Lopes Nunes) in the lead, adapting the popular TV character into a feature comedy about family and resilience.^[69]

As of November 2025, no additional feature film releases for Suede have been announced.^[64]

Discography

Solo albums

Chay Suede released his debut solo studio album, titled Chay Suede, on October 18, 2013, through Universal Music.^[70] The project marked his transition from group performances with Rebeldes to independent artistry, showcasing a mix of pop rock, folk, and Música Popular Brasileira (MPB) elements that highlight his vocal range and songwriting influences from Brazilian traditions.^[70] Production emphasized acoustic-driven arrangements and introspective lyrics, drawing on themes of youth, romance, and emotional vulnerability.^[70] The album consists of 10 original tracks, with "Papel" serving as the lead single, released earlier in September 2013, which captured attention for its upbeat pop melody and personal storytelling.^[71] Other notable tracks include "Grita Sem Ter Medo," an energetic opener blending rock energy with folk undertones, and "Muito Quente," which incorporates MPB rhythms to explore passionate relationships.^[70] The record received modest critical reception, averaging a 3.0 out of 5 rating on platforms like Rate Your Music based on early listener feedback.^[72] As of November 2025, no additional solo studio albums by Suede have been released, with his subsequent musical output primarily through collaborative projects.^[73]

Aymoré albums and EPs

Aymoréco, the musical project formed by Chay Suede and producer Diogo Strausz in September 2015, debuted with a self-titled EP released on December 18, 2015, via Universal Music. The four-track release, "Aymoréco," showcased a fusion of indie pop, experimental rock, folk, and Brazilian Música Popular Brasileira (MPB) influences, described by the duo as "sexy music with a strong tendency towards delight." Tracks included "Cilada" (4:38), "Índia Jenifer" (3:40), "Hipopótamo" (3:45), and "Água de Amor" (3:14), emphasizing playful, rhythmic arrangements with Suede's songwriting at the core.^[74][75] Building on the EP's momentum, Aymoréco issued its debut full-length studio album, also self-titled, on August 26, 2016, under Universal Music. Produced collaboratively by Strausz and renowned engineer Mario Caldato Jr., the 10-track effort expanded the project's sound into a broader palette of pop, Latin rhythms, and psychedelic elements, while retaining MPB and folk roots. Key tracks highlighted Suede's compositions, often co-written with partners like João Vitor Silva, and included "Chuva de Like" (lead single, 3:52), "Rapadura" (4:04), "Estrela Universal" (3:37), "A Vez do Avesso" (2:37), "Vem Que Tem" (3:57), "Expresso Aurora" (3:11), "Dona Lucinha" (2:55), "Dói Demais" (3:19), "Antoninho" (3:25), and "Nossas Avenidas Homenageiam Assassinos" (3:50). The album was distributed digitally and on vinyl, marking a commercial pivot toward more accessible pop structures, though critics noted it somewhat diluted the EP's experimental edge.^[35][76] The project evolved from intimate duo sessions during Suede's early Globo acting commitments into a more polished ensemble effort, incorporating additional collaborators for percussion and arrangements. However, Aymoréco has remained inactive since the 2016 album, with no subsequent releases or tours announced. Suede has referenced the venture nostalgically in interviews, noting a shift back to solo endeavors, fueling occasional fan speculation about a potential revival or disbandment, though no official confirmation has emerged as of November 2025.^[77][78]

Singles

Chay Suede's singles career began with his debut solo release in 2013, marking his transition from teen pop influences to more personal songwriting. As a lead artist, he issued "Papel" from his self-titled album, a track blending baião rhythms with contemporary pop elements.^[79] In the same year, Suede made a notable guest appearance on Manu Gavassi's "Segredo," a duet featured on her album Clichê Adolescente. The song explores themes of youthful romance and secrecy, showcasing Suede's vocal harmony alongside Gavassi's lead.^[80] With the band Aymoréco, co-founded by Suede and producer Diogo Strausz, the group released "Chuva de Like" in 2016 as the lead single from their self-titled debut album. This track, composed by Suede with collaborators, incorporates tecnobrega and Latin dance influences, aiming for a vibrant, flirty vibe that resonated in digital platforms.^[81][77] In 2019, Suede contributed multiple tracks to the soundtrack of the biographical film Minha Fama de Mau, where he portrayed Roberto Carlos. Promotional singles from this project include "Minha Fama de Mau," "Devolva-me" (featuring Malu Rodrigues), "Festa de Arromba," and "Eu Sou Terrível," among others, released as part of the film's original soundtrack.^[82] No peak chart positions or certifications were recorded for these releases in major Brazilian charts. Suede has not issued additional solo singles as of November 2025, with musical contributions primarily tied to acting roles in films.^[83]

Awards and nominations

Acting awards

Chay Suede has received numerous accolades for his performances in Brazilian television, particularly in telenovelas, recognizing his breakthrough roles and character depth. His awards highlight contributions from early career revelations to more mature antagonistic portrayals, with wins spanning major industry honors like Melhores do Ano and Prêmio APCA. The following table enumerates his key acting awards and nominations, focusing on verified honors for television and film performances up to 2025:

Music awards

Chay Suede's early music career, stemming from his participation in the talent show Ídolos and his role in the band Rebeldes, earned him recognition in Brazilian youth-oriented awards ceremonies. As a member of Rebeldes, the group won the Capricho Awards for National Band in 2011, highlighting the popularity of their soundtrack album from the telenovela Rebelde.^[95] In 2012, Suede received the Prêmio Jovem Brasileiro for Best Young Singer, acknowledging his rising profile as a performer following his time on Ídolos and with Rebeldes.^[96] That same year, he won the Capricho Awards for National Singer, further cementing his status in the pop music scene.^[96] Suede's solo work, including his 2013 single "O Nome Dela é Você," did not yield major award wins, though it contributed to his nominations in youth categories at events like the Capricho Awards from 2011 to 2013. His later projects, such as the duo Aymoré (2016–2018) and sporadic solo releases up to 2025, received no notable music-specific honors in MPB or pop genres based on available records.^[96]