Preta Gil, renowned Brazilian singer, entrepreneur, and activist, passed away at 50 on Sunday, July 20, 2025, in New York while attempting to return to Brazil. The daughter of Gilberto Gil had been battling colorectal cancer since January 2023 and sought experimental treatment in the United States starting in May 2025. During the journey to the airport, the artist fell ill in an ambulance, was rushed back to the hospital, but did not survive. The news, confirmed by her family and team, shocked fans and friends who celebrated her resilience and legacy in music and activism. The transfer of her body to Brazil is being arranged, with details about funeral ceremonies to be announced. Preta’s journey, marked by struggle and transparency, inspired thousands.
Her battle with cancer began over two years ago when she was hospitalized in Rio de Janeiro with severe symptoms, including bleeding and intestinal discomfort. Diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, a malignant tumor in the lower intestine, she immediately began intensive treatment. Her journey was openly shared on social media to reduce the stigma around the disease and encourage early diagnosis.
- Initial steps: Diagnosis in January 2023 after emergency hospitalization.
- Early treatment: Chemotherapy and radiotherapy in Brazil, followed by surgery.
- Cancer recurrence: In 2024, new tumors were detected in four parts of her body.
- Seeking alternatives: Trip to the US in May 2025 for experimental therapies.
Journey through cancer battle
Preta Gil’s fight against colorectal cancer was marked by ups and downs. In January 2023, after experiencing intestinal discomfort, she was hospitalized and diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer affecting the digestive tract and the second most common among women in Brazil, behind breast cancer. She began chemotherapy and radiotherapy at Sírio-Libanês Hospital in São Paulo and, in August 2023, underwent a 14-hour surgery to remove the tumor and her uterus. The procedure was successful, and Preta announced remission in December 2023, though under medical monitoring for five years.
However, in August 2024, routine exams revealed cancer recurrence, spreading to two lymph nodes, the peritoneum, and the ureter. A second surgery in December 2024, lasting 21 hours, removed the tumors but required a permanent colostomy bag. Preta faced the procedure with optimism, sharing her adaptation to the new reality and encouraging acceptance of medical devices. After months of chemotherapy in Brazil yielded limited results, she sought experimental treatments in the United States.
Experimental treatment in the United States
In May 2025, Preta Gil arrived in New York to begin a new treatment phase at the Virginia Cancer Institute in Washington and the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, a global leader in oncology. The decision followed the exhaustion of therapeutic options in Brazil. She participated in experimental protocols focusing on immunotherapy and drugs in late-stage trials. Staying in an apartment provided by friends, she split her time between New York and Washington for treatments.
- Experimental protocols: Use of immunotherapy and drugs in final testing phases.
- Family support: Visits from Gilberto Gil, Bela Gil, Flora Gil, and friends like Regina Casé.
- High costs: Estimated treatment expenses reached around $7 million.
- Intense routine: Frequent travel between New York and Washington for appointments.
Preta shared optimistic updates on social media, emphasizing the importance of support from fans and family. In a June 2025 post, she wrote: “As I grow stronger physically and spiritually, I receive so much love. You all heal me.” Despite initial progress, her health deteriorated rapidly in her final days, culminating in the fatal incident during her attempt to return to Brazil.
Musical and activist legacy
Born on August 8, 1974, in Rio de Janeiro, Preta Maria Gadelha Gil Moreira grew up in a culturally rich environment as the daughter of Gilberto Gil and goddaughter of Gal Costa. Her career began behind the scenes as a producer before releasing her debut album Prêt-à-Porter in 2003, featuring hits like “Sinais de Fogo.” She also stood out as an entrepreneur, leading the Bloco da Preta, one of Rio’s largest Carnival blocks, and as an activist, fighting against racism, fatphobia, and homophobia.
Preta used her platform to combat prejudice, becoming a powerful voice for female empowerment and diversity. Her authenticity and courage in sharing her cancer journey inspired thousands to seek prevention and early diagnosis.
- Musical career: Albums like Prêt-à-Porter and performances at major events.
- Social activism: Advocacy against prejudice and promotion of diversity.
- Bloco da Preta: A cultural icon of Rio’s Carnival.
- Transparency: Using social media to raise awareness about health and cancer.
Reactions to Preta Gil’s death
The news of Preta Gil’s passing sparked widespread grief across Brazil. Artists like Carolina Dieckmann, Daniela Mercury, and Anitta posted emotional tributes, highlighting the singer’s strength and joy. Fátima Bernardes, who learned of the news during a trip, wrote: “No matter how tough the fight was, I always believed in her recovery. She was steadfast, courageous.” Fans are organizing vigils in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, and networks are planning special programs to honor her legacy.
Preta’s family, including her father, Gilberto Gil, and son, Francisco Gil, requested privacy while arranging the transfer of her body to Brazil. Her team stated that details about the wake and burial will be shared soon. The 2026 Carnival is expected to feature tributes to the Bloco da Preta, a cornerstone of Rio’s culture.
Importance of colorectal cancer prevention
Colorectal cancer, which affected Preta Gil, is treatable when detected early. In Brazil, it is the second most common cancer among women, with thousands of cases annually. Preta emphasized the importance of recognizing symptoms like rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, and bowel changes.
- Early detection: Exams like colonoscopy can identify polyps before they become malignant.
- Risk factors: Family history, high-fat diets, and sedentary lifestyles.
- Treatment: Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy are effective in early stages.
- Awareness: Public campaigns encourage regular screenings starting at age 45.
The singer advocated for overcoming the stigma around exams like colonoscopy, which can save lives. Her public fight inspired many to seek medical care and adopt healthier habits.
Final days and impact of her passing
In the days leading up to her death, Preta Gil maintained a routine of appointments and tests, traveling between New York and Washington. Friends like Ivete Sangalo, Claudia Raia, and Sabrina Sato visited her, offering emotional support. In her final post, she expressed gratitude and hope, making her passing even more shocking.
The attempt to return to Brazil, planned for July 2025, was halted by the sudden worsening of her condition. During the journey to the airport, Preta fell ill in an ambulance and was rushed back to the hospital, where she passed away. The news caught fans and family by surprise, especially after her hopeful messages.
Preta Gil’s death leaves a void in Brazilian music and social activism. Her courage in facing the disease, combined with her legacy as an artist and advocate for diversity, ensures her impact endures. Brazil awaits details of the tributes to be held in her memory, as fans and friends celebrate a woman who turned adversity into inspiration.
