How a Brazilian ᴅʀuԍ Lord Helped Michael Jackson Film ‘They Don’t Care About Us’

Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, was known for his groundbreaking music videos, but one of his most controversial and intriguing productions was the 1996 video for They Don’t Care About Us. Directed by Spike Lee, part of the video was filmed in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and involved the indirect help of a powerful local ᴅʀuԍ lord, Márcio Amaro de Oliveira, known as Marcinho VP.

The Challenging Setting

Favelas are poor, densely populated neighborhoods in Brazil, often controlled by criminal organizations. In the 1990s, these areas suffered from severe poverty, discrimination, and police brutality. The government largely ignored their residents, and criminal groups like Comando Vermelho stepped in to provide essential services funded by ᴅʀuԍ trafficking.

Marcinho VP was a key figure in Comando Vermelho, overseeing the Dona Marta favela, where part of the video was filmed. Despite his criminal status, he played an unexpected role in ensuring the success of Jackson’s music video.

The Role of Marcinho VP

When Jackson and Spike Lee’s team expressed interest in filming in a favela, Marcinho VP influenced the decision to choose Dona Marta over other locations. He had connections in the Brazilian production company Skylight and used his influence to push for his favela as the setting.

Since filming in favelas could be dangerous due to rival gang activity and police interventions, Marcinho VP guaranteed safety for Jackson and the production crew. He assured that no one would touch the film equipment, even making a bold claim that a million dollars could be left on the streets without being stolen. He even organized 50 security personnel, with 30 being his own men, to ensure smooth operations.

Filming and Community Impact

On the day of filming, Marcinho VP remained hidden to avoid police detection but closely monitored the process. He arranged for a house to serve as Jackson’s dressing room, making sure it was renovated for the star’s comfort. The filming itself was a joyous event for the community, with many residents excited to see Jackson perform in their neighborhood.

Despite the criminal context, Marcinho VP used the opportunity to highlight the struggles of favela residents. He even spoke in an interview about his views on social justice, police corruption, and drug trafficking, acknowledging the harm of drugs but justifying his role in the system. His words painted a complex picture of a man who, despite his criminal activities, saw himself as a protector of his community.

The Aftermath

Just eight days after filming, Marcinho VP was arrested. He attempted to bribe the police but failed and was later imprisoned. His involvement with the music video increased his notoriety, making him a more significant target for law enforcement. Meanwhile, They Don’t Care About Us became a massive hit, shedding light on the harsh realities of life in Brazil’s favelas.

Although much of the money from the production was used for local improvements, such as funding daycare centers and a medical facility, the renovations made for Jackson’s comfort were short-lived. Air conditioning units were removed, and the house quickly deteriorated.

A Legacy That Lives On

Despite the challenges, They Don’t Care About Us remains one of Jackson’s most impactful music videos, surpassing one billion views on YouTube by April 2023. It not only showcased his artistry but also brought global attention to the struggles of Brazil’s favela communities.

This fascinating behind-the-scenes story demonstrates how unexpected alliances—between a global pop icon and a local drug lord—can create powerful moments in history. It remains a testament to the power of music as a tool for social awareness and change.