What Happened to Preta Gil? Beloved Brazilian Star Dies at 50 After Brave Cancer Battle

Brazil is mourning the loss of Preta Gil, a beloved singer, actress, and activist who passed away at the age of 50 on Sunday, July 20. Her death was confirmed by CNN Brasil. Preta had been fighting bowel cancer since January 2023 and, after a short remission, the disease returned in August 2024 and spread aggressively.

Born on August 8, 1974, in Rio de Janeiro, Preta was the daughter of legendary musician and former Culture Minister Gilberto Gil. Growing up surrounded by music and art, she carved out her own path and quickly became a cultural icon in Brazil.

What made Preta Gil such an important voice in Brazil?

Preta launched her music career in 2003 with her debut album Prêt-à-Porter. Over the years, she released several more albums and performed alongside famous artists like Ana Carolina, Ivete Sangalo, Anitta, and Lulu Santos. But Preta’s voice was more than just musical. She used her platform to speak up for causes close to her heart, including racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and women’s empowerment.

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Her television work also made her a household name. She starred in shows like Caminhos do Coração, Os Mutantes, and Ó Pai Ó, while making guest appearances as herself in Cheias de Charme and Pé na Cova. In 2010, she founded Bloco da Preta, a Carnival group that quickly became a Rio favorite.

How is her legacy being remembered?

Preta was more than an entertainer. She was an entrepreneur and co-founder of Mynd, a marketing agency centered around digital influencers. Her advocacy work inspired many, as she openly discussed her cancer journey to encourage others facing similar battles.

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She is survived by her son Francisco, now 28, and her granddaughter, 7-year-old Sol de Maria. Preta’s passing leaves a deep void in Brazilian culture, but her vibrant spirit and fearless advocacy will live on through her music, her family, and the movements she supported.