Preta Maria Gadelha Gil Moreira, popularly known as Preta Gil, was a celebrated Brazilian singer, actress, presenter, and entrepreneur. She was born on August 8, 1974, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and passed away on July 20, 2025, in New York, USA, at the age of 50 due to complications from rectal cancer. Known for her powerful voice and outspoken activism, Preta left behind a lasting legacy in Brazilian culture, music, and social justice.
Preta Gil Wiki/Bio
| Full Name | Preta Maria Gadelha Gil Moreira |
| Date of Birth | August 8, 1974 |
| Date of Death | July 20, 2025 |
| Age | 50 (at the time of death) |
| Profession | Singer, Actress, Presenter, Entrepreneur |
| Known For | Music, Activism, Mynd Agency |
| Birthplace | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil |
| Last Residence | New York, USA |
| Nationality | Brazilian |
| Zodiac Sign | Leo |
| Social Media | Instagram: @pretagil, X (Twitter): @PretaGil |
Preta Gil Early Life & Background
Preta was born into a prominent musical family—her father is the legendary Gilberto Gil, and her godmother was iconic singer Gal Costa. Her early life was filled with creativity, imagination, and social awareness. She spent time in Salvador and briefly lived in Los Angeles, where she absorbed American pop culture. Even as a child, she displayed a bold personality and love for performance.
Her name, “Preta,” meaning “black” in Portuguese, was initially resisted during registration due to racial bias, but she wore it with pride throughout her life.
Preta Gil Family Details
| Field | Details |
| Father | Gilberto Gil |
| Mother | Sandra Gadelha |
| Siblings | Bem Gil, Bela Gil, Nara Gil, Maria, Pedro (deceased) |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouses | Otávio Müller, Carlos Henrique Lima, Rodrigo Godoy |
| Children | Francisco Gil (b. 1995) |
| Grandchildren | Sol de Maria (b. 2017) |
Preta had one son, Francisco, a musician with the band Gilsons, and one granddaughter, Sol de Maria. Her family was a pillar of support during her battle with cancer.
Preta Gil Career Highlights
Preta began her professional journey as a producer and publicist, working during Salvador’s Carnival and in media agencies. She stepped into the music world at 28 with her debut album Prêt-à-Porter (2003). The album’s cover stirred controversy due to her nude photo, but it became symbolic of her artistic freedom.
She went on to lead Bloco da Preta, one of Rio’s biggest Carnival blocks, attracting over 2 million fans. As an entrepreneur, she co-founded Mynd, a major influencer marketing agency managing stars like Anitta and Luísa Sonza.
In 2024, Preta released the EP “De Volta ao Sol” and her memoir “The First 50”, reflecting on her life, activism, and cancer journey.
Controversies & Public Issues
- Cancer Journey (2023–2025): Diagnosed with rectal cancer in early 2023. Despite initial remission, the disease returned in 2024, leading her to undergo experimental treatments in the USA. Her public journey inspired many.
- Divorce (2023): She divorced Rodrigo Godoy after reports of infidelity during her cancer treatment, which became a major media topic.
- Album Cover (2003): Her nude album cover stirred controversy but she defended it as a symbol of rebirth and freedom.
- Activism: Preta spoke out against racism, homophobia, and fatphobia. While praised for her courage, she also faced backlash from conservative critics.
Recent Updates
2024
- Cancer Recurrence: In August, her cancer returned and spread.
- New Work: Released EP “De Volta ao Sol” and memoir “The First 50”.
- Major Surgery: Underwent a 20-hour surgery in December.
2025
- Hospitalization: Admitted multiple times between January and May. In February, discharged after 55 days.
- Final Days: Fell ill while preparing to fly home from New York and passed away on July 20.
- Tributes: Tributes from Gilberto Gil, Ivete Sangalo, and fans filled social media and news channels.
Legacy
Preta Gil leaves behind a vibrant and fearless legacy. She broke taboos, empowered women, and celebrated marginalized voices. Her influence on Brazilian music, Carnival, and social activism will continue to inspire generations.
Her Bloco da Preta will likely feature heartfelt tributes in Carnival 2026, and her memoir stands as a final gift to her fans.
Preta Gil’s life was a celebration of music, identity, and the power of speaking out—bold, loving, and unforgettable.
