Elizabeth Savala (from the original series) was considered for the role of Machadão, but Roberto Talma felt she did not fit the character. Since she had been starring Walcyr Carrasco's dramas since 2001, Carrasco and Talma briefly clashed over Talma's decision.
Cláudia Raia, Alessandra Negrini and Flávia Alessandra all turned down the role of Zarolha, which went to Leona Cavalli.
The casting of Maria Machadão turned out difficult. Regina Duarte was originally cast but dropped out due to schedule conflicts. Elizabeth Savala (from the original series) was to replace her, but she ended up turned down by director Roberto Talma. Lucélia Santos turned down the role, while Susana Vieira and Betty Faria were considered but were ultimately not cast. Creator Walcyr Carrasco then offered the role to singer Ivete Sangalo, who accepted.