Lucélia worked as a receptionist in a weight-loss clinic. before starring in productions of the plays "The Rocky Horror Show" and "Transe no 18", Due to her early stage success, Lucélia was invited to star in the film "Paranóia" in 1976, at the age of 19. After three other small roles in unsuccessful films, that same year she landed the leading role in "Escrava Isaura", which tells the story of the struggle of a white-skinned black slave to find happiness during the Brazilian Empire. The telenovela, based on the novel of the same name by 19th century abolitionist writer Bernardo Guimarães, is the most dubbed program in the history of world television, according to a research conducted by "Good Morning America". Prior to being invited for the leading role by writer Gilberto Braga and director Herval Rossano, Lucélia had been turned down by Globo several times. She even landed a role in "Estúpido Cupido", but that was wrapped up due to financial reasons.