Businessman Sérgio Mattos, who discovered Gisele Bündchen and Cauã Reymond, dies at 62 in Rio de Janeiro Por Luís Henrique Costa
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Sérgio Mattos, founder of the 40 Graus Models agency, passed away this Wednesday (15) at age 62 in Rio de Janeiro. The Bahian businessman, based in the city since childhood, was hospitalized due to renal complications. His death occurred hours after the agency debunked rumors about his health on social media.
The 40 Graus Models team confirmed the passing in an official statement. The note highlighted the support received from friends and fans during the difficult period. Mattos built a career spanning over three decades in the fashion industry, working as a booker and public relations professional.
He began his career in 1988 at the Elite agency, traveling across Brazil to scout new talent. Later, he worked at Next in New York, securing international contracts for Brazilians. In 2004, he founded his own agency, focused on boosting careers abroad.
His last public appearance was in September, during the filming of the “Vale Tudo” remake, in the wedding scene of Odete Roitman and César Ribeiro. The episode marked a symbolic return to television, where Mattos had indirectly contributed through models cast in productions.
Early career at Elite Models
Mattos moved from Bahia to Rio at age seven and enrolled in journalism at UFRJ in the 1980s. His shift to fashion came in 1988 as a public relations professional at Elite Models. He traveled extensively across Brazil, identifying potential in cities like Porto Alegre and São Paulo.
These trips led to the discovery of faces for national campaigns. Mattos managed schedules and negotiations, prioritizing versatile profiles for local and global markets. His practical approach accelerated the recognition of emerging talents.
In New York, starting in the 1990s, he expanded contacts with foreign agencies. This phase lasted four years and paved the way for partnerships for Brazilian models in international runways.
Discoveries that shaped global fashion
The founding of 40 Graus Models in 2004 marked the peak of his professional independence. The agency focused on national talents with global appeal, securing contracts in Milan and Paris. Mattos prioritized authentic profiles, avoiding rigid standards set by fleeting trends.
Among his discoveries, Gisele Bündchen emerged in 1994 during a scouting trip in Rio Grande do Sul. Mattos connected her to bookers in São Paulo, starting a career that led to Vogue covers. Cauã Reymond had his first book under his guidance, opening doors to film and TV.
Other highlights include Isabelli Fontana, Ana Beatriz Barros, and Alessandra Ambrosio, who moved to Victoria’s Secret. Raica Oliveira and Carol Ribeiro also received early support, with a focus on diversity in skin tones and regional origins.
- Gisele Bündchen: Discovered at 14, became a global icon with multimillion-dollar contracts.
- Cauã Reymond: First book in 2002, transitioned to acting in Globo soap operas.
- Isabelli Fontana: Launched in 1999, first Brazilian on the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover.
Tributes from artists and colleagues
Cauã Reymond expressed himself on social media about his close relationship with Mattos. The actor highlighted the support since his first book and recent conversations. Daniella Sarahyba thanked him for early career support, describing it as crucial for her success.
Susana Werner recalled their professional partnership, emphasizing his kindness in daily interactions. Kiko Mascarenhas, from the advertising industry, praised his impact on lives and fashion careers. Thalita Rebouças noted his constant charisma at events.
The 2018 exhibition “30 Years of Fashion — Sérgio Mattos” featured 50 photographs and documents. Held in Rio, it showcased composites and letters illustrating key negotiations. Family and staff are keeping funeral details private.
Legacy in shaping Brazilian talent
Mattos influenced generations by mentoring young bookers at 40 Graus. The agency trained over 200 professionals since 2004, emphasizing technical skills. He encouraged posture and language courses, preparing models for auditions in London and Tokyo.
His vision integrated fashion with entertainment, casting talents in soap operas and films. Projects like Studio Galleria in São Paulo aimed at multifunctional spaces for shoots. Sustainability became a focus in the 2010s, with eco-friendly campaigns.
The agency’s generational transition is underway, with the team managing daily operations. Existing partnerships ensure the continuity of contracts.
Mattos’ passing marks the end of an era for visionary bookers in Brazil. His network of contacts remains in 40 Graus archives, serving as a reference for newcomers.
