Babu Santana (born Alexandre da Silva Santana, 1979) is a Brazilian actor and singer. Born in Vidigal, Rio de Janeiro, he began acting in school plays at the age of 12 and joined the theater group Nós do Morro at 17. He made his film debut in 2002 with City of God and Something in the Air. He is also the vocalist of the band Babu Santana e Os Cabeças de Água-Viva, whose music blends samba, reggae, soul and funk.
Early career
Santana developed his interest in performance during his school years, taking part in plays from the age of 12. His membership in the Nós do Morro theater group, which he joined at 17, gave him experience in a company rooted in the community of Vidigal. His first film roles followed in 2002, when he appeared in City of God and Something in the Air, two titles that brought him to wider attention in Brazilian cinema.
Music and television
Alongside acting, Santana fronts the band Babu Santana e Os Cabeças de Água-Viva, which combines samba, reggae, soul and funk. He is the father of two daughters and one son. In 2020 he took part in the reality show Big Brother Brasil 20 as one of the housemates, finishing in fourth place, which brought his work to a larger public.