You already know Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and Donald Duck. Some Disney characters are classics, part of many people’s lives, and need no introduction. But did you know there’s also a very Brazilian character among the studio’s creations? And not only that: he was created right here in Rio de Janeiro! Learn more about the story of Zé Carioca!
Walt Disney created Zé Carioca while staying at the Copacabana Palace
To talk about Zé Carioca, we have to go back to 1941. It was in that year that Walt Disney, the studio’s founder, arrived in Brazil alongwith his wife and his team of animators to create a character that would represent the country in one of his upcoming films.
At first, according to the BBC, the Brazilian character was supposed to be an armadillo. But everything changed when Mickey Mouse’s creator visited Rio de Janeiro.
Here, during his stay at the Copacabana Palace, he decided to change the character’s species and opted for a colorful and creative parrot, representing the image he had captured of the Brazilian people.
As for his source of inspiration, there are many stories. They say that Walt Disney was inspired by the samba musician Paulo da Portela, after a visit to the samba school’s headquarters in Madureira.
There is also a story circulating that Walt Disney created the character as a gift for cartoonist J. Carlos, who drew the Brazilian versions of Disney for the magazine O Tico Tico.
There are also records indicating that Zé Carioca was inspired by the musician and composer José do Patrocínio Oliveira, who even voiced the character in his first official appearance.
But whatever the story, one thing is certain: Disney’s most Brazilian character carries Rio de Janeiro in his name and in his history!
The character has appeared in films, almanacs, and fashion collections
Although Zé Carioca (or Joe Carioca, in the original) had few appearances in Disney works, the Brazilian public recognizes the friendly parrot from a mile away.
With his cheerful, mischievous, and welcoming manner, he first appeared in the 1942 film *Saludos Amigos*, released in the United States by Disney.
In the film, divided into four parts, Zé Carioca introduces Donald Duck to some Brazilian traditions, including cachaça and samba. After that, the character appeared in other studio productions, such as animated films and television series.
Here in Brazil, the character has also been the star of various publications, especially comic books and comic strips. In addition, he was once part of an exclusive almanac, which was published until May 2017.
Zé Carioca’s success led the parrot to become the theme of a fashion collection, appearing on shirts and pieces by the Rio-based brand FARM.
And since we’re talking about Disney…
…how about watching an ice show in June, featuring skating, aerial acrobatics, and reliving iconic stories that have been part of several generations? This is Disney on Ice: Family Celebration, coming to Rio de Janeiro to enchant the locals!
Zé Carioca won’t be there, but Elsa and Anna from Frozen , as well as Mirabel and the entire Madrigal family from Encanto , will be at this show celebrating family bonds!
And more: at the request of fans in South America, the show will also feature Stitch, who takes to the ice with his antics in a special, never-before-seen appearance !
Disney On Ice takes place from June 17 to 21 at the Farmasi Arena, and you can secure your tickets here!
