Preta Gil Biography: Parents, Death, Age, Husband, Net Worth, Children, Height, Songs, Siblings

Priscilla Annabelly Alcantara, known professionally as Preta Gil, is a Brazilian singer, actress, and entrepreneur celebrated for her eclectic blend of samba, axé, and MPB (Música Popular Brasileira) that captures the spirit of Rio de Janeiro’s cultural scene.

Born into musical royalty as the daughter of Gilberto Gil, she carved her own path with hits like “Sinais de Fogo,” released in 2003, which showcased her soulful voice and dynamic stage presence.

Beyond music, Preta has built a multifaceted career through acting, hosting, and her fashion brand, establishing herself as a prominent advocate for body positivity and Afro-Brazilian culture, with a fanbase drawn to her authenticity and infectious energy.

Profile

• Full Name: Priscilla Annabelly Alcantara
• Stage Name: Preta Gil
• Born: 8 August 1974
• Age: 51 years old
• Birthplace: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Nationality: Brazilian
• Occupation: Singer, Actress, Entrepreneur
• Height: 1.60m
• Parents: Gilberto Gil and Sandra Gadelha
• Siblings: Pedro Gil, Maria Gil, Bem Gil
• Spouse: Rodrigo Godoy (m. 2015–2023)
• Children: Francisco Gil
• Relationship: Single
• Net Worth: $4 million

Early Life and Education

Priscilla Annabelly Alcantara was born on August 8, 1974, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to Gilberto Gil, a legendary musician and former Minister of Culture, and Sandra Gadelha, a nurturing figure in their artistic household.

Raised alongside siblings Pedro, Maria, and Bem Gil, Preta grew up immersed in Brazil’s rich musical heritage, surrounded by samba and bossa nova influences.

She attended local schools in Rio but prioritized her creative passions over formal higher education, gaining early experience in theater and music through family connections and community events.

She is of mixed Afro-Brazilian and Portuguese, her religion is unknown.

Career

Preta Gil began her career in the 1990s as a backing vocalist and actress, leveraging her family’s musical legacy to perform at local Rio venues and appear in small theater productions.

Her breakthrough came in 2003 with her debut album Prêt-à-Porter, featuring the hit “Sinais de Fogo,” which blended samba, funk, and axé to gain radio play and festival slots across Brazil.

Her vibrant performances at events like Rio’s Carnival established her as a rising star, with early tours showcasing her ability to connect with audiences through soulful covers and original tracks rooted in love and celebration.

The 2000s saw Preta expand her discography with albums like Noite Preta (2012) and Bloco da Preta (2017), the latter tied to her famous Carnival street block that draws thousands annually to Rio’s streets.

Collaborations with artists like Ivete Sangalo and Anitta, plus hits such as “Estéreo” and “Vacilão,” solidified her crossover appeal, blending MPB with pop influences to chart on Billboard Brazil.

Her television work, including hosting Vai Que Cola and judging on The Masked Singer Brasil, broadened her visibility, while her advocacy for inclusivity earned her awards like the Troféu Raça Negra for cultural impact.

Preta’s recent work includes the 2024 single “Você Não Vive Pra Me Ver Feliz,” reflecting her resilience after personal challenges, including a 2023 cancer diagnosis and recovery.

Her entrepreneurial ventures, such as a plus-size fashion line and event production for Bloco da Preta, complement her music career, while her performances at festivals like Rock in Rio continue to inspire.

As a cultural influencer, she champions Afro-Brazilian representation and body positivity, leaving a lasting legacy in Brazil’s entertainment landscape through her music and social activism.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @pretagil
• Facebook Handle: Preta Gil
• Twitter Handle: @pretagil

Personal Life

Preta Gil married diving instructor Rodrigo Godoy in 2015 in a high-profile Rio ceremony, but the couple amicably divorced in 2023 following her health challenges.

She has one son, Francisco Gil, born in 1995 from an earlier relationship with actor Carlos Henrique Blecher.

Unfortunately, she passed away on July 20, 2025, in New York City, U.S. Her death was due to complications from colorectal cancer (often referred to in media as colon or rectal cancer), after a prolonged battle with the disease.

Discography

• Prêt-à-Porter (2003)
• Noite Preta (2012)
• Bloco da Preta (2017)
• Sinais de Fogo (2003)
• Estéreo (2010)
• Vacilão (2015)
• Você Não Vive Pra Me Ver Feliz (2024)

Net Worth

Preta Gil has an estimated net worth of $4 million, primarily earned through music sales and streaming royalties from albums like Noite Preta, revenue from her iconic Bloco da Preta carnival events, and her fashion brand targeting inclusive sizing.

Her television appearances and endorsements further contribute to her financial success.