Biography
Selton Figueiredo Melo, known as Selton Mello (born December 30, 1972) one of Brazil’s most respected actors and directors, has built a remarkable career spanning four decades. From his beginnings as a child actor to his status as a celebrated artist, Mello has consistently demonstrated his passion for storytelling and connection with audiences. Born in Passos, Minas Gerais, Mello began acting in Brazilian television soap operas during the 1980s. His talent quickly earned him recognition, leading to his transition to cinema. In the 1990s, he gained acclaim with films such as Lavoura Arcaica (To the Left of the Father) and O Auto da Compadecida (A Dog’s Will). The latter remains a cultural classic, with Mello’s role as Chicó highlighting his comedic timing and depth. Mello’s versatility as an actor is evident in his diverse filmography, including Meu Nome Não É Johnny (My Name Ain’t Johnny)* and Jean Charles, a poignant portrayal of a Brazilian immigrant’s tragic story. In Ainda Estou Aqui (I’m Still Here), directed by Walter Salles, Mello delivered a powerful performance as Rubens Paiva, a congressman disappeared during Brazil’s military dictatorship. Beyond acting, Mello has excelled as a director. His 2011 film O Palhaço (The Clown), which explores themes of identity and purpose, received widespread acclaim and numerous awards. His second directorial work, O Filme da Minha Vida (The Movie of My Life), further showcased his storytelling ability, earning accolades at the Rome Film Festival. A member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Mello plays a key role in promoting Brazilian cinema internationally. With over 40 years in the industry, Selton Mello remains a significant figure, celebrated for his contributions as an actor, director, and cultural embassador.
Acted in 67
2020s
- 2026
La Perra
Duda
The Rogue's Trial (TV Series)
Chicó · 4 episodes
- 2025
Bury Your Dead
Edgar Wilson
- 2024
- 2023
The Long Voyage of the Yellow Bus
Movie
- 2021
- 2020
Babenco: Tell Me When I Die
Banquet Attendee
2010s
- 2018
- 2017
Treze Dias Longe do Sol
Saulo Garcez · 10 episodes
Lino
Lino (voice)
Soundtrack
Cris
- 2016
My Hindu Friend
Common Man
- 2014
- 2013
Rio 2096: A Story of Love and Fury
Abeguar / Balaio / Cau / JC (voice)
- 2012
Billi Pig
Wanderlei
Kings & Rats
Troy Somerset
- 2011
The Clown
Benjamim / Palhaço Pangaré
The Invisible Woman
Pedro · 13 episodes
- 2010
Federal
Dani
Lope: The Outlaw
Marqués de las Navas
Reflections of a Blender
Liquidificador (voz)
Miracle Hands
Dimas Bevilláqua · 9 episodes
2000s
- 2009
Jean Charles
Jean Charles
The Herb of the Rat
Ele
The Invisible Woman
Pedro
- 2008
Slightly Out of Tune
Dico - young
My Name Ain't Johnny
João Guilherme Estrella
- 2007
O Sistema
Matias Cadore / Matt · 6 episodes
Sete Vidas
voz do Gato
- 2006
Drained
Lourenço
Tarantino's Mind
Friend #2
- 2005
O Coronel e o Lobisomem
Pernambuco Nogueira
Dry Movie
Bob
- 2004
Os Aspones
Tales · 7 episodes
Nina
Amigo de Ana
- 2003
Girls from ABC
Salesiano
Lisbela and the Prisoner
Leléu
- 2001
Caramuru: Brazil Reinvented
Diogo Álvares, Caramuru
To the Left of the Father
André
Os Normais
Nilo, Bernardo · 1 episode
- 2000
A Invenção do Brasil
Diogo Álvares, o Caramuru · 3 episodes
Making of O Auto da Compadecida
Movie
1990s
- 1999
O Auto da Compadecida
Chicó · 4 episodes
- 1997
Guerra de Canudos - Minissérie
Tenente Luís da Gama · 4 episodes
The Battle of Canudos
Tenente Luís da Gama
- 1995
- 1994
Lamarca
Ivan
- 1993
- 1992
- 1990
Uma Escola Atrapalhada
Renan
1980s
- 1986
- 1984
- 1983
No release date
The Alienist
Simão Bacamarte
Produced 11
2020s
- 2026
The Rogue's Trial (TV Series)
Associate Producer
- 2024
2010s
- 2017
Soundtrack
Co-Producer
- 2013
Rio 2096: A Story of Love and Fury
Associate Producer
- 2012
Kings & Rats
Associate Producer
- 2011
The Clown
Co-Producer
2000s
- 2008
December
Co-Producer
- 2006
Drained
Associate Producer
Quando o Tempo Cair
Producer
Directed 8
2010s
- 2017
- 2012
- 2011
The Clown
Director
The Invisible Woman
Director
2000s
- 2008
December
Director
- 2007
O Sistema
Director
- 2006
Quando o Tempo Cair
Director
No release date
The Alienist
Director
Wrote 4
2010s
- 2017
- 2011
The Clown
Screenplay
2000s
- 2008
December
Screenplay
- 2006
Quando o Tempo Cair
Screenplay
Edited 3
2010s
- 2011
The Clown
Editor
2000s
- 2008
December
Editor
- 2006
Quando o Tempo Cair
Editor
Art department 1
2020s
- 2023
Tá Roxeda
Art Department Coordinator
Appearances8
2020s
- 2025
Tributo: Francisco Cuoco
Self
- 2021
You Were Never Alone
Self · 7 episodes
2010s
- 2018
Você Não Sabe Quem Eu Sou
Self
- 2017
- 2016
- 2014
Diário de Novas Lembranças
Narrator
- 2012
Aperana Street 52
Self
2000s
- 2005
Câmera, Close!
Himself