Biography
Vinicius Ferreira Machado is an internationally recognized Brazilian actor, writer, producer, emerging director, and a humanitarian whose work has reached global audiences across film, television, and voice media. With a career shaped by standout performances, high-level industry collaborations, and a reputation for versatility and excellence, Vinicius has built a distinguished legacy in entertainment. Today, however, his life and creative mission are defined by something far greater: his unwavering commitment to glorifying Jesus Christ through every platform entrusted to him.
Once known primarily for his accomplishments in front of the camera, Vinicius has experienced a profound personal transformation through his journey as a born-again Christian, a transformation that has fundamentally reshaped both his purpose and his artistic direction. Alongside his wife, Anastasia Machado, Vinicius now leads 1130 Ministries LLC, a faith-centered organization dedicated to advancing the Gospel through media, ministry, humanitarian service, and culture-shaping storytelling. Their shared mission is clear: to proclaim the message of Jesus Christ and to impact lives and nations for the glory of God.
Vinicius is the son of Antônio Carlos de Oliveira Machado, a former professional soccer player turned entrepreneur, and Sueli Ferreira Machado, a celebrated Carnival Queen, two figures who deeply influenced his upbringing with a legacy of discipline, public excellence, and performance artistry. At the age of ten, he began training in Capoeira, igniting a passion that would later become the foundation for his unique presence as both an athlete and performer. After immigrating to Orlando, Florida with his family in 1994, Vinicius pursued soccer and the performing arts with equal intensity, ultimately graduating from Dr. Phillips High School, a renowned magnet program recognized for producing exceptional talent in the performing arts.
He began his professional career at Universal Studios Orlando, where he quickly gained attention for his charisma, athleticism, and dynamic versatility as a performer. During this formative season, he had the opportunity to work alongside globally recognized figures such as Steven Spielberg and Eddie Murphy, experiences that accelerated his development and positioned him for broader industry success.
In 2005, Vinicius relocated to Los Angeles and, within weeks, secured representation rapidly booking a breakout role on Nickelodeon's Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide. He went on to build an impressive resume spanning major network and studio productions, including The Shield, CSI: Miami, NCIS, General Hospital, and feature films such as Monster, Get Smart, and Beautiful and Twisted, among others. His performance as Nomar in STARZ's hit series Power earned notable recognition for his ability to embody emotionally complex and intense characters with authenticity and power. Additionally, his work on HBO's True Detective further demonstrated his capacity to perform at the highest level alongside acclaimed talent including Colin Farrell and Rachel McAdams.
While his career includes significant milestones and industry recognition, Vinicius' story is equally marked by seasons of adversity that forged resilience and ultimately anchored him in faith. He survived a near-fatal car accident, endured homelessness, and faced painful experiences of bullying. Later, a difficult divorce became a defining turning point, one that compelled deeper reflection on his identity, influence, and spiritual condition. It was through these valleys that Vinicius encountered the redeeming love, authority, and transforming power of Jesus Christ. Today, he boldly proclaims Jesus as his Lord and Savior, acknowledging that every breath, every opportunity, and every platform belongs to Him and is meant to honor His name.
Now remarried to Anastasia whom he calls his better half and the greatest gift of his life after God, Vinicius lives with profound gratitude for the restoration and joy he has found in both family and calling. Together, they have five children Pablo, Israel, Isabella, Eric, and Ezra and share their home with two beloved rescue mutts. Faith, family, and ministry are the foundation of their lives and the driving force behind their work.
Beyond the screen, Vinicius has established a respected presence in voice acting, producing, and storytelling, including executive producing film projects and narrating the award-winning audio book The Man from Lisbon. Today, his primary creative focus is writing, crafting original stories and screen-based narratives designed not only to captivate audiences, but to carry truth, conviction, and eternal impact. Through 1130 Ministries LLC, Vinicius and Anastasia are committed to using media as a modern mission field reaching hearts across cultures with hope, healing, and the uncompromising message of salvation in Christ.
His philanthropic contributions include service with organizations such as Feed the Children, World Vision, and The Red Tie, and he was honored with the People of Distinction Humanitarian Award in 2015. Yet Vinicius remains steadfast that true wealth is not measured by accolades, influence, or financial success, but by obedience to God's call, devotion to family, and the privilege of serving others with humility and purpose.
Looking ahead, Vinicius is dedicated to developing film, media, and ministry initiatives that do more than entertain: projects that inspire transformation, awaken faith, and point people to the Gospel with clarity and power. His testimony and career reflect a singular truth: no talent, no trial, and no platform is too small or too great when fully surrendered to the glory and obedience of Jesus Christ.
