Heavily criticized for the lack of black people in its cast as the story takes place in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil - the city with the largest black population outside of Africa. Rede Globo was sued by a black NGO regarding the series' lack of representation.
Herson Capri was originally cast as Nestor but was deemed to young opposite Arlete Sales and José de Abreu. Francisco Cuoco was cast in the role.
Taís Araújo was initially meant to star as Luzia, but refused due to her commitments with series Mister Brau. Giovanna Antonelli was previously cast as Karola but ultimately was given the main role when Araújo passed on it.