fernanda montenegro is 'brazil's great dame of brazilian drama.' - one of rio de janeiro's most illustrious theatrical superstars, she has been a regular face in theatre, cinema, and national television ever since her debut in 1950.

with a portfolio of over 25 feature films, she is best known for her leading role in 1998's central station, for which she was nominated as best actress at the academy awards.

in 1999, montenegro was awarded the brazilian grand cross of the national order of merit, for outstanding work in brazilian theatrical arts, the highest award that a civilian can be awarded from the presidency of brazil.