Important Update
Key Points
- Preta Maria Gadelha Gil Moreira, widely recognized as Preta Gil, has passed away at the age of 50 due to colon cancer.
- She was diagnosed with the disease in January 2023.
- A public memorial service will be organized in Rio de Janeiro where family, friends, and fans can honor her memory.
The Brazilian music scene mourns the loss of Preta Gil, who died at the age of 50.
Preta Maria Gadelha Gil Moreira, popularly known as Preta Gil, succumbed to colon cancer on Sunday, July 20, after a valiant battle against the disease. Her passing was officially announced via her Instagram account on Monday, July 21.
At the time of her death, Gil was undergoing treatment in New York, as reported by the Daily Mail.
The arrangements for transporting her remains back to Brazil are still pending. “The wake will take place in Rio de Janeiro, where her family, friends, and the public can pay their respects. We will share details about the date, time, and venue as soon as they are finalized,” stated the announcement made in Portuguese.
Her father, Gilberto Gil, also confirmed her death through a statement on his Facebook page. The 83-year-old singer and ex-Minister of Culture of Brazil requested privacy during this challenging time for the family.
Additional Information
“We appreciate the understanding from our dear friends, fans, and members of the press during this difficult period for our family,” he said. Details regarding the funeral will be made available shortly.
According to the Daily Mail, Preta was diagnosed with colon cancer in January 2023.
Reports suggest that she was en route to Brazil but fell ill on her way to the airport and was urgently taken to a hospital where she passed away.
She had previously undergone chemotherapy and radiation treatments in Brazil and had a surgery in August 2024 to remove tumors that had spread to her ureter, peritoneum, and two lymph nodes.
Preta openly shared her diagnosis and treatment journey with the public.
In a heartfelt Instagram post on February 11, she posted a video where she was visibly moved as hospital staff surprised her with a celebration marking her discharge after 55 days in the hospital following her surgery.
“Finally discharged after 55 days in the hospital after my surgery!!! It’s been almost 2 months fighting and never stopped believing!!!” she expressed her gratitude and excitement to start anew at home, feeling stronger.
During her departure from the hospital, nurses lined up in the hallway, cheering her on with yellow and red balloons, celebrating her homecoming.
“Starting a new chapter at home, stronger than ever!” she shared enthusiastically.
Preta Gil leaves behind her son Francisco Müller, 30, from her previous marriage to Brazilian actor Otávio Müller de Sá, also known as Otávio Müller.
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