Biographie
Handsome, talented, and a man who defined a generation through his presence and acting in movies and TV series, Lauro Corona was truly one of a kind. His life was cut short too soon, but he left a lasting impression on his fans through his brief career.
Born on July 6, 1957, in Rio de Janeiro, Corona started working at 16 as a salesman in his mother’s boutique. By the late 1970s, he was acting in plays and caught the attention of actor Paulo José and a renowned theater director who recognized his talent and potential. Soon after, he landed his first TV role in the hit show Dancin’ Days (1978), playing Beto. This marked his debut in soap operas and television, quickly making him a popular figure and a heartthrob. From that point onward, he became a regular on TV, appearing in several shows including Marina (1980) and Baila Comigo (1981).
Corona made his film debut as one of the leads in Sergio Rezende’s O Sonho Não Acabou (1982), a portrayal of Brasília’s youth in the early 1980s during the final years of the military regime, capturing the era’s sex, drugs, and rock ’n’ roll culture. One of the film’s most striking moments features Corona alongside guards of President João Figueiredo, filmed candidly with real politicians and soldiers unaware of the shoot—a daring move by the director, crew, and actor. He later starred in only one other film, Swingin’ Betty (1984), which became a major hit and remains one of the works most associated with him.
His career highlights also include the miniseries Memórias de um Gigolô (1986) and the TV series Direito de Amar (1987). In addition, he hosted Globo de Ouro, a musical program that showcased artists performing classic hits or new releases, allowing him to display his talents as a charismatic host.
Corona’s final role was as the Portuguese Manuel Victor in Vida Nova (1988). During the show’s run, he was diagnosed with AIDS but kept his condition secret from the network, as disclosing it at the time would have ended his career. He simply informed them that he was very ill and needed to leave the show. Out of concern for his health, the creators crafted an alternate ending for his character despite the series still being in progress. In a memorable scene, his character bids farewell to his love interest with a kiss, enters a car, recites an off-screen poem by Fernando Pessoa, and returns to his homeland.
A few days after his 32nd birthday, Corona passed away from AIDS-related complications. His family chose not to disclose the cause immediately. He was among the first well-known figures in Brazil to succumb to the disease. Fans and nostalgic TV enthusiasts remember him with deep affection, love, and admiration.
