Cancer victim Preta Gil dies at age 50
Singer and businesswoman Preta Gil died this Sunday (20) after battling cancer. Preta Gil had been in the United States since May undergoing treatment.
On social media, the family released a statement, lamenting the artist's death and stating that they are now taking care of the procedures to bring her to be buried in Brazil.
Related news:"It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Preta Maria Gadelha Gil Moreira in New York, where we are currently processing the procedures for her repatriation to Brazil. We ask for the understanding of so many dear friends, fans, and media professionals as we navigate this difficult time as a family. As soon as possible, we will release information about the farewells," said the statement, published on the profile of her father, fellow musician Gilberto Gil.
She discovered she had colon cancer in early 2023. The diagnosis prevented her Carnival group, Bloco da Preta, from performing that year. "I spent the last six days hospitalized at the São Vicente Clinic in Gávea, in Rio's south zone, due to discomfort I had been experiencing, and thank God, today I received a definitive diagnosis. I have adenocarcinoma in the final portion of my intestine," she said in January of that year.
Daughter of singer Gilberto Gil and Sandra Gadelha, Preta Maria Gadelha Gil Moreira would have turned 51 in a few days, on August 8th. She leaves behind a son, Francisco Gil.
Possessing an infectious laugh and a talent she carried in her blood, she released her first album, Prêt-à-Porter, in 2003. The cover, featuring her nude and with parts of her body covered only by Senhor do Bonfim ribbons, caught the attention of the national media. But her voice and music eventually prevailed, and she launched a career with four albums and shows throughout Brazil, as well as participation in Carnival parades.
CondolencesPresident Lula also expressed his condolences on social media for Preta Gil's passing. He was full of praise for the singer, whom he called "talented and a fighter in everything she did."
"Preta was a deeply loved and admired person by the public and by those fortunate enough to spend time with her. The stages and carnivals she so enlivened will miss her," said Lula. The president also stated that, as soon as he heard the news, he called Gilberto Gil to offer words of comfort. Gilberto Gil served as his Minister of Culture from 2003 to 2008.
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