Selton Figueiredo Mello, born on December 30, 1972, is a Brazilian actor and filmmaker celebrated for his versatility across genres and mediums. He began acting in television as a child and rose to fame through his standout comedic roles in Brazilian cinema, particularly in A Dog’s Will (2000) and Lisbela and the Prisoner (2003), which cemented his status as a household name in Brazil. Known for his expressive style and strong screen presence, Mello quickly became one of the country’s most respected actors.
Expanding his artistic reach, Mello transitioned to directing with his 2008 debut December. His second feature, The Clown (2011), demonstrated his storytelling depth and emotional range, earning critical acclaim and serving as Brazil’s submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 85th Academy Awards. Though it did not receive a nomination, the film reinforced Mello’s reputation as a multifaceted creative force capable of crafting poignant, character-driven narratives.
In 2024, Mello achieved broader international acclaim for his performance as Brazilian congressman and political activist Rubens Paiva in I’m Still Here, directed by Walter Salles. The film, which won the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film, brought global attention to Mello’s dramatic capabilities. His portrayal of Paiva—a real-life figure tortured and disappeared during Brazil’s military dictatorship—was widely praised for its nuance and emotional gravity, further establishing Mello as one of Latin America’s most compelling performers.
