Preta Gil has died. The Brazilian singer died on July 20 “after a long and courageous” cancer battle, according to a statement posted on her Instagram account. She was 50.
Gil, who had been battling colon cancer since January 2023, was receiving treatment in New York prior to her death, Daily Mail reported.
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According to the outlet, Gil was on her way to the airport to return to Brazil when she became ill. She was quickly taken to a medical facility, where she died, the outlet reported.
“At this time, there is no date set for the body’s repatriation to Brazil,” the Instagram post read. “The wake will be held in Rio de Janeiro, where family, friends, and the public will be able to pay their last respects. As soon as the date, time, and location are confirmed, we will announce them here.”
The Instagram statement concluded, “We thank you, once again, for all the affection, respect and understanding from everyone.”
Preta Gil’s Family Speaks Out After Her Death
In a statement posted to his Facebook page, Gil’s father, Gilberto Gil, spoke out about his daughter’s death.
“We ask for the understanding of so many dear friends, fans and media professionals as we go through this difficult time as a family,” the statement read. “We will release information about the farewells as soon as possible.”
Gil’s stepmother, Flora Gil, posted about her daughter’s death on Instagram. The elder Gil shared a photo that showed her holding her daughter’s hand.
“Love is eternal. Together always. Together until the end of the journey,” she wrote. “You lit up the world. I love you.”
Gil shared her final Instagram post just one week before she died. In the silly video, Gil’s loved ones danced in front of her as she laid in bed.
Gil released her first album, Prêt-à-porter, in 2003. Three more albums followed: Preta in 2005, Sou Como Sou in 2012, and Todas as Cores in 2017. Gil, a noted feminist and LGBTQ advocate, was also an actress, as well as a talk show host.
She is survived by her adult son, Francisco Müller.
Photo by PABLO PORCIUNCULA/AFP via Getty Images
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