At just 7 years old, child actress Mari Lauredo makes her major debut playing Celeste in the Brazilian Netflix series “Emergência Radioativa” (Radioactive Emergency), inspired by one of the most significant episodes in the country’s history. Originally from Itapevi, the young actress has drawn attention for her sensitivity in bringing to life a character based on Leide das Neves, a symbol of the Cesium-137 accident, balancing innocence and dramatic weight in a performance that has moved audiences. In an interview, Mari and her family discuss the challenges of the role, the behind-the-scenes aspects of the production, and the beginning of a promising career in audiovisual media.
Mari, how did you feel when you heard the news that you would be playing Celeste in Radioactive Emergency? What did you feel at that moment?
At first, I was very happy, even without understanding that Celeste would be such an important character in the story! I just wanted to start filming, but then I realized she had a lot to say and I got even more excited.
Celeste is a very special and emotional character. What did you like most about her when you first learned her story?
What I truly loved most was my relationship with my fictional “mother” and the affection I felt for the doll Bruna. They were my companions and made everything seem very real on set.
Even though it was your first role, you were already part of a very important production. What was it like experiencing all of this for the first time?
It was my first time playing such a big role! I always enjoy doing everything, even the smaller parts, because I love being there. I give my heart to every scene and do everything as if it were the most important thing in the world.
During filming, was there any scene, moment, or memory from the set that stayed with you?
The part that affected me the most was the moment when Celeste was separated from her mother. It’s a powerful scene, isn’t it? I had to use my imagination a lot to feel what Celeste was going through at that moment.
Your character shows a lot of sweetness and innocence. How did you manage to get into Celeste’s personality?
I was exactly who I am in my day-to-day life. I brought my joy and my personality to the character, so everything felt very natural. Even in the sad scenes.
Filming a story inspired by an event that marked Brazil brings a different kind of responsibility. Even though it was a small project, did you feel that this work was special in a unique way?
Yes. Every day I asked my real mom for help. I wanted everything to turn out beautifully, exactly as Celeste deserved. We read the text together and she helped me understand every little bit of the story.
Your mother commented on how well the production team cared for you during filming. What made you feel safer and happier on set?
They played with me a lot, picked me up, and showered me with affection. I felt very cared for by everyone, especially by my “dad,” Alan, who was my amazing partner in scenes and playmates.
After playing Celeste and making your Netflix debut, what is your biggest dream for the future as an actress?
My dream is to play Thaís Araújo’s daughter in some project. My mother always showed me her work and taught me to admire everything she does. I’m a huge fan.
Follow Mari Lauredo on Instagram
