The Federal Public Prosecutor's Office (MPF) has launched an investigation into possible torture practices in the reality show BBB 26, broadcast by TV Globo. The move follows complaints highlighting risks to participants' physical and psychological integrity. Prosecutor Julio Araujo signed the procedure, emphasizing that editorial freedom does not excuse violations of fundamental rights.
The Federal Public Prosecutor's Office (MPF) has started an investigation into TV Globo's reality show BBB 26, targeting complaints of practices that could amount to torture. The inquiry was ordered by regional deputy prosecutor for Citizen Rights, Julio Araujo, based on reports indicating unnecessary exposure of confined participants to health risks.
Among the cited cases is that of Henri Castelli, who suffered convulsive crises during the edition's first endurance test. The complaint filed with the MPF argues that the program's dynamics, such as Breno's exile in the house's external area, subject participants to dangerous situations for entertainment purposes, representing a 'direct affront to human dignity'.
Another contested element is the White Room, described as a 'torture chamber' by international media. The Special Commission on Political Death and Disappeared Persons (CEMDP) sent an open letter to the MPF criticizing the game's entry dynamic, stating that it evokes psychological suffering practices linked to past authoritarian regimes.
In Rafaella's case, the participant fainted after more than 120 hours in isolation in the White Room, where she was required to stand on a pedestal of reduced dimensions, which complainants classify as degrading treatment.
In justifying the inquiry, Araujo stressed that broadcasters' editorial freedom does not serve as a 'safe-conduct' for violating fundamental rights. As public service concessionaires, TV networks must uphold constitutional principles ensuring human dignity and the social values of the person and family.
TV Globo responded that it provides permanent medical monitoring for participants, including mobile ICU support and protocols for hospital referrals when needed. The network stated that Henri Castelli received proper care and was taken to external health facilities on two occasions. As an initial step, the MPF requested detailed clarifications from Globo on the issues raised by the CEMDP.
