Preta Gil, a singer, entrepreneur, and iconic figure in Brazilian culture, passed away at 50 on July 20, 2025, in the United States, after battling cancer. The daughter of Gilberto Gil, one of Brazil’s greatest musical legends, left a legacy that transcends her artistic career, marked by deep family ties and a support network that stood by her until her final days. The Gil family, renowned for its cultural and musical influence, was central to her journey, with siblings, children, nephews, and close friends sharing moments of joy, challenges, and celebrations. This text delves into the history of this family, highlighting the bonds that shaped Preta’s life and her contribution to Brazil’s cultural scene. The following narrative celebrates family unity, recalling stories and names that were part of her journey, based on reliable information and recent accounts.
The Gil family is a mosaic of musical talents, affection, and stories spanning generations. From childhood, Preta was immersed in an environment where music and art were the foundation of family life. Gilberto Gil, her father, is a global MPB icon, while her mother, Sandra Gadelha, brought cultural roots connecting Preta to her Northeastern heritage. The artist was also shaped by her siblings, nephews, and her only son, Francisco Gil, who followed the family’s musical path.
- Key figures in the Gil family:
- Gilberto Gil, father, MPB icon, and former Minister of Culture.
- Sandra Gadelha, mother, a cultural and emotional influence.
- Francisco Gil, son, member of the trio Os Gilsons.
- Bela Gil, sister, chef, and TV presenter.
- Bem Gil, brother, musician, and producer.
Preta’s connection with her family was always public, with frequent tributes on social media and TV shows. In 2020, during the program “Tamanho Família” on Rede Globo, she was moved to tears while talking about her siblings and nephews, emphasizing the love that united them.
Musical roots of the Gil family
Music is the thread that binds the Gil family, and Preta inherited this legacy naturally. Gilberto Gil, with a career spanning over six decades, influenced not only Preta but also her siblings and nephews. Bem Gil, for instance, is a recognized musician and producer, while José Gil, another sibling, also pursued an artistic path. The new generation, represented by Francisco Gil and his cousins João and Flor Gil, keeps the musical tradition alive through the trio Os Gilsons, blending MPB, samba, and contemporary influences.
Preta was involved in the musical world from an early age. Her professional debut in 2001 with the album “Prêt-à-Porter” marked the start of a career that combined axé, pop, and MPB. Gilberto Gil’s influence was evident, but Preta carved out her own identity with lyrics about love, diversity, and resilience. In interviews, she highlighted how her father encouraged her to find her voice without being limited by the weight of the family name.
- Key moments in Preta’s musical career:
- Release of “Prêt-à-Porter” in 2001, with hits like “Sinais de Fogo.”
- Performances at festivals like Rock in Rio and Rio’s Carnival.
- Collaborations with artists like Ivete Sangalo and Anitta.
- Creation of Mynd, an agency for artist management.
Beyond music, Preta stood out as an entrepreneur. Her agency, Mynd, represented names like Luísa Sonza and Juliette, solidifying her influence in the cultural market.
Bonds of affection and family support
The Gil family was a vital support network for Preta, especially during her cancer battle, diagnosed in 2023. After a 20-hour surgery to remove an intestinal tumor, Preta relied on the constant presence of family and close friends. Her son, Francisco, was by her side in the U.S., where she sought experimental treatment. In an emotional post, Francisco shared a photo with his mother, highlighting her strength as an inspiration for his own lifestyle changes, adopting habits like boxing and yoga.
Bela Gil, Preta’s sister, was also a constant presence. Known for her work as a chef, Bela shared moments of joy with Preta, such as gatherings with nephews in New York. Flor Gil, Bela’s daughter, at 16, is emerging as a musical talent, while Bento and Dom, Bem Gil’s children, complete the new generation of artists.
- Figures who supported Preta during treatment:
- Francisco Gil, who accompanied his mother in the U.S.
- Bela Gil, with messages of affection and frequent visits.
- Gilberto Gil, who publicly celebrated his daughter’s strength.
- Friends like Carolina Dieckmann and Gominho, who moved to be with her.
The closeness with friends like Gominho, who left his job to be with Preta, and Carolina Dieckmann, who traveled to the U.S. during a TV shoot, shows that Preta’s family extended beyond blood ties.
Tributes that marked her journey
Preta Gil was known for publicly celebrating her family and friends. In 2020, on Siblings’ Day, she shared a video from “Tamanho Família,” where she was moved by surprises from her siblings. In 2023, she honored her brother José Gil on his birthday, emphasizing their special bond. That same year, Gilberto Gil dedicated verses from his song “Realce” to celebrate what seemed to be Preta’s recovery, though the cancer returned in 2024 with metastasis.
Friends also reciprocated her affection. On July 20, 2025, hours before her passing, Gominho posted an emotional tribute, calling Preta “mother, sister, family, and inspiration.” Carolina Dieckmann, in another post, described her friend as “my haven and the keeper of my haven,” highlighting the depth of their bond.
- Notable tributes received by Preta:
- Gominho’s post on Friendship Day, praising her strength.
- Carolina Dieckmann’s message, emphasizing their sisterhood.
- Gilberto Gil’s dedication with verses from “Realce.”
- Comments from celebrities like Ivete Sangalo and Sabrina Sato.
These public displays show how Preta was seen as a figure of light and inspiration by both family and friends.
Cultural and family legacy
Preta Gil’s legacy extends beyond her music and entrepreneurship. She represented the strength of a Black woman who faced prejudice and health challenges with courage. Her agency, Mynd, was a pioneer in promoting diversity in the artistic market, while her performances at Rio’s Carnival and on shows like “Nesse Canto Eu Conto” on Multishow showcased her versatility. The Gil family, with its new generation of musicians, continues to expand this legacy, keeping Preta’s essence alive.
Francisco Gil, for instance, is part of Os Gilsons, a group that has gained recognition with songs like “Meu Xodó.” The song, released in 2021, reflects the spirit of family unity that Preta always valued. Flor Gil, Preta’s niece, is also beginning her musical journey, performing at venues like City Winery in New York.
- Preta’s contributions to Brazilian culture:
- Promoting diversity through Mynd.
- Iconic performances at Carnival and festivals.
- Appearances on TV shows like “Domingão com Huck.”
- Inspiration for the new generation of Gil family artists.
Preta’s story is inseparable from the family that shaped her and that she, in turn, helped strengthen.
Support network and emotional impact
Preta’s cancer battle mobilized not only her family but also a legion of fans and friends. In 2023, when she announced her diagnosis, she thanked her fans, whom she called “family.” Social media posts from artists like Ivete Sangalo and Duda Beat reinforced admiration for her strength. Her time in the U.S. for treatment was marked by moments of joy, such as gatherings with nephews and family musical performances.
Preta’s death on July 20, 2025, caused widespread grief. Gilberto Gil, upon hearing the news, experienced a blood pressure spike, while friends like Carolina Dieckmann expressed shock and sadness. The family has yet to issue an official statement, but one is expected soon.
- Reactions to Preta’s passing:
- Gilberto Gil required medical attention after the news.
- Carolina Dieckmann mourned the loss of her friend.
- Fans flooded social media with messages of affection.
- Artists like Sabrina Sato and Duda Beat highlighted Preta’s legacy.
Despite the pain, the Gil family remains a symbol of resilience and unity, with a legacy that will continue to inspire.