Paulo Barbosa Villaça, a renowned Brazilian actor and theatre director, was born in 1933 in Bauru, São Paulo, and passed away in 1992 in Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro.
Prior to his successful acting career, Villaça worked as a Literature professor, journalist, and advertising manager, ultimately achieving recognition as an actor in the 1960s.
He gained prominence by starring in the lead role of Rogério Sganzerla's 1968 film "The Red Light Bandit".
During the 1970s, Villaça was married to the esteemed Brazilian actress Marília Pêra.
Throughout his illustrious career, he appeared in over 20 films, becoming a recognizable figure in the Brazilian Cinema Marginal movement of the 1960s and 1970s.
In addition to his film work, Villaça had a distinguished career in theatre, acting with the Teatro Oficina company and performing in numerous notable plays, such as "Navalha na Carne", "Fala Baixo Senão eu Grito", and "Grande e Pequeno".
On television, he appeared in various programs, including Rede Globo's "O Bofe" and Rede Bandeirante's "Os Adolescentes", as well as limited series like "Quem Ama Não Mata" and "Chapadão do Bugre", and soap operas such as "Helena" and "Vale Tudo".
His final film, 1992's "Perfume de Gardênia", paid homage to his iconic role as The Red Light Bandit.
Sadly, Villaça passed away in Rio de Janeiro due to HIV-related health issues and was laid to rest in São Paulo.
