Popular Brazilian singer and actress, Preta Gil, passed away on July 20, 2025, at the age of 50. She was known not only for her powerful singing but also as the daughter of legendary Brazilian musician Gilberto Gil. Preta Gil had been bravely fighting a long battle with cancer for over two years.
Preta Gil’s Strong Family Background
Preta Gil belonged to a famous musical family in Brazil. Her father, Gilberto Gil, is a big name in the Brazilian music world and has also been involved in politics. Preta had two siblings — her sister Maria Gil and her brother Pedro Gil, who sadly passed away in 1990.
Preta’s mother, Sandra, was also a strong personality and was known for her bold statements in public. Preta’s family was full of artists, musicians, and people connected with Brazil’s cultural roots.
Preta Gil’s Marriages & Children
Preta Gil married twice in her lifetime. Her first husband was actor Otavio Muller, whom she married in 1994, but the marriage ended soon in 1995. From this marriage, she had a son named Francisco, born in 1995.
Later, she found love again and married Rodrigo Godoy in 2015. Rodrigo was a basketball player and fitness trainer. Sadly, this marriage also ended in 2023, the same year Preta Gil was diagnosed with cancer.
How Preta Gil Got Her Unique Name ‘Preta’
The story behind Preta’s unique name is also very interesting. In Portuguese, ‘Preta’ means black. Her father, Gilberto Gil, wanted to give her this name despite opposition. Officials refused to register it at first, but Gilberto protested by saying:
“If there are people named Branca (White), Clara (Clear), and Rosa (Rose), then why not Preta (Black)?”
Finally, he succeeded in naming his daughter Preta.
Preta Gil’s Tough Cancer Journey
Preta Gil’s cancer battle started in 2023. She went through various treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Even after all the efforts, her cancer returned. She also faced personal struggles during this difficult time.
Preta was hospitalised for 55 days in 2025 before being discharged. Later, she decided to explore advanced treatment options in the USA. She sought help from top hospitals like Memorial Sloan Kettering and the Virginia Cancer Institute.
Preta was open about her health on social media and shared her journey with fans, creating a community of people who admired her bravery. Sadly, she passed away in her US residence during an experimental treatment.
Conclusion
Preta Gil’s passing is a big loss not just to Brazil’s music industry but also to her fans worldwide who admired her talent and strength. From her bold name to her bold fight against cancer, Preta Gil lived a life full of challenges, music, and love. Her story is a reminder of how courage, family, and passion define a person more than fame.
FAQs
Who was Preta Gil?
Preta Gil was a popular Brazilian singer and actress, daughter of musician Gilberto Gil.
How did Preta Gil pass away?
She passed away after a long fight with cancer at the age of 50.
What was special about her name ‘Preta’?
Her father named her ‘Preta’, which means ‘Black’ in Portuguese, despite initial objections from officials.
How many times was Preta Gil married?
She was married twice — first to Otavio Muller and then to Rodrigo Godoy.
Did Preta Gil have children?
Yes, she had one son, Francisco, from her first marriage.