Vinicius Junior was recently pictured with Hollywood star Terry Crews in Rio de Janeiro. Although the pair met in person for the first time, they have a shared history tracing back to the recently concluded FIFA 2026 World Cup.
Credit – Instagram
After a tumultuous season with Real Madrid, Vinicius re-established his credentials as one of his generation’s finest with a brilliant campaign in the Americas. The number seven made his mark with five goals and three assists in just five games.
However, it was not enough to take Brazil past the Round of 16. Facing Norway, the Seleccion succumbed 2-1 courtesy of a late Erling Haaland brace.
The Manchester City striker was the talk of the internet along with Vinicius in the run-up to the fixture, but not for expected reasons. A meme featuring the duo’s faces morphed onto a scene from the cult classic comedy White Chicks, featuring Crews and Marlon Wayans, went viral earlier this month.
The video elicited comments from both Haaland and Vinicius. In fact, Crews himself in the aftermath excitedly offered to teach the duo how to do an actual enactment of the scene from the movie released over two decades ago.
Nearly three weeks since, the entire episode has now come full circle.
Vinicius, who looks a lot different, has been spending time in his home country alongside girlfriend Virginia Fonseca before the new season begins. And recently, they were joined by an unexpected visitor in the form of Crews.
The trio were captured going to church together and offering prayers before heading to Christ the Redeemer’s statue. On the balcony at the monument, Crews effortlessly lifted a giggling Vinicius onto his back as the duo shared some light-hearted moments.
Credit – Vini on Instagram
Crews, a former American Football player himself with 32 caps in the NFL, even posted pictures on his story of working out together alongside Vinicius. The 57-year-old then crowned it all off with a moving caption showcasing love to his new-found football friend.
The very first time I met @vinijr—and it happened at Christ the Redeemer in Rio! What a moment. What a blessing. A true dream come true.
Vini is one of the greatest and most exciting footballers in the world. His talent, speed, athleticism, and everything he does on the field are absolutely incredible. I have been such a huge fan—but meeting him in person, I was just as impressed by his heart, his spirit, and the love he carries for Brazil.
And yes… the first time we met, Vini jumped right on my back! 😂💪🏾
Even though this was our first meeting, it felt like I was reconnecting with a little brother and a lifelong friend. The love and mutual respect were immediate and real. I truly believe this is the beginning of a friendship that will last forever.
I am still in awe of Vini, in awe of Brazil, and so grateful to have shared this unforgettable moment in such a powerful and beautiful place.
Love you, Vini!
Terry Crews on IG
The internet was unsurprisingly gob smacked by the unexpected collaboration as two entertainment universes collided.
“Great crossover! Terry Crews and Vini Jr. at Christ the Redeemer is pure vibes 🇧🇷⚽🤍 Hope this friendship brings more fun moments like the piggyback ride.”
Some compared the scene to something out of Brooklyn 99 itself or one of Crews’ Hollywood comedy flicks. Others drew parallel with Brazilian cinema.
“Terry Crews meeting Vini at Christ the Redeemer is such a Brazilian movie scene 😂🔥. Two icons, one legendary location — the internet needed this crossover.”
What moved fans was the mutual respect Vinicius and Crews seemed to share for each other and their surroundings, despite meeting for the first time.
“Terry Crews’ post is a beautiful expression of heartfelt love for Vinícius Jr. and his home country, Brazil. 💛🤍💝 Sometimes, genuine love and respect go beyond borders, and this is one of those beautiful moments. 🇧🇷❤️”
The incident also symbolizes the growing appeal of football in America as Hollywood becomes more and more involved with the beautiful game.
“This is bigger than football. Two legends sharing a genuine moment.”
The only thing missing from the moment was Haaland, who is due to return to action soon for pre-season with City.
“@Erling was missing from this fun @vinijr 🤣🤣🤣🤣”
Vinicius would hope all the positivity augurs well for him as the 2026/27 season draws closer, and with it another chance for him to make a surge for the elusive golden ball.
“Terry Crews about to flex Vini into winning the Ballon d’Or.”
The Brazilian youngster has already undergone significant changes by opting for a chin-reduction non-surgical procedure following elimination from the World Cup.
However, his focus will undoubtedly be on producing the goods on the field for the Los Blancos. They are slated to play a couple of friendlies before their La Liga season kicks off against Espanyol on August 22.
