Legal Action Over Song Use in Bolsonaro Biopic
Pop star Beyoncé’s team has launched a legal challenge regarding the unauthorized use of her song “Survivor” in the teaser trailer for a new film titled “Dark Horse.” This movie delves into the life of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, according to Brazilian media reports.
“Dark Horse” is written and produced by Mario Frías, a member of Bolsonaro’s Liberal Party and a current Brazilian lawmaker. The film features American actor Jim Caviezel, best known for his roles in “Sound of Freedom” and as Jesus in Mel Gibson’s “The Passion of the Christ.”
Filming will take place in both Brazil and the United States, under the direction of Cyrus Nowrasteh, with a release date set for 2026. The initial trailer, which debuted recently, highlights pivotal moments from Bolsonaro’s political journey, including his time as a lawmaker and his unsuccessful marriage to former first lady Michelle Bolsonaro. It also touches on an assassination attempt he survived during the 2018 presidential election.
The trailer incorporates scenes that feature Beyoncé’s “Survivor,” but it appears the song was used without the necessary permissions. Anderson Nick, who leads the Brazilian branch of Beyoncé’s charity, BeyGOOD, mentioned on Instagram that they are taking immediate legal steps to have the trailer removed.
In his Instagram Story, Nick expressed gratitude to those who alerted him about the song’s inclusion, stating, “Clearly, this song has been used without permission, and legal action has already been initiated to ensure its removal.” He added a note of thanks to his followers.
Jair Bolsonaro served as Brazil’s president from 2019 until 2022, losing a close election to current leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Presently, the 70-year-old Bolsonaro is facing a 27-year prison sentence tied to controversial accusations of “crimes against democracy.” This also bars him from running for office for 35 years, which would mean his eligibility would only come when he turns 105.
Brazil’s highest court, the Federal Supreme Court, has consistently denied Bolsonaro’s requests for humanitarian house arrest. Although he has multiple health issues, including skin cancer and serious injuries from the 2018 assassination attempt, the court has not reversed its decisions.
