Renata Spallicci made her emotional return to the Carnaval festivities as the queen of drums for the Águia de Ouro samba school, opening the second night of the Special Group parades at the Anhembi sambadrome on March 1, 2025. After stepping away from the vibrant scene due to her battle with intestinal cancer, her comeback is not only significant for her but is being celebrated as her "Carnaval of healing".
Spallicci, who previously graced the stages with well-known samba schools like Acadêmicos do Tatuapé and Barroca Zona Sul, was announced as the queen for Águia de Ouro at the end of the previous year. Her return has been filled with emotions, reflecting her considerable dedication to both her health and to the legacy of Carnaval. "Being the queen of drums for Águia de Ouro is a cause for pride. It’s a privilege to be part of this passionate and dedicated community. I’m confident the school can win its second title as champion of Carnaval São Paulo," she expressed before the parade began.
This year, the Águia de Ouro samba school took to the streets under the theme Em Retalhos de Cetim, a Águia de Ouro do Jeito Que a Vida Quer, honoring celebrated singer-songwriter Benito di Paula. Renata noted how deeply personal this Carnaval is for her, stating, "This Carnaval, for me, was about overcoming, sacrifice, and health." Her words echo not only her own struggles but also resonate with many who face challenges of their own.
To prepare for her return, Spallicci shared the intense physical regimen she undertook. She had previously been active as a bodybuilder and after undergoing treatment, she faced the reality of having been away from performing. "It was truly shocking when I returned and realized how out of shape I had become. It was frightening! I had only stopped training during my treatment, but samba during Carnaval is incredibly intense cardio. At the first rehearsals, I was genuinely out of breath," she recounted. To combat this, she underwent extensive training to regain her endurance and condition for the Samba parade.
Her preparation highlighted the importance of being physically present and engaged with the samba school. "It’s fundamental to participate, know the samba, and understand the story being told on Avenida," she noted, emphasizing her commitment to embracing her role fully.
Renata's performance this Carnaval symbolizes more than just her status as queen; it stands as testimony to her resilience and determination. The audience, dizzy with excitement, cheered her enthusiastic return, underscoring the support of the sambadrome community. Her presence was met with admiration as she donned traditional attire accented by roses, radiantly embodying the spirit of the celebration.
Fans and fellow performers alike reflected on her inspiring comeback and the heartwarming message weaving through the festivities this year. The atmosphere was charged with excitement, as the Águia de Ouro samba school kicked off their parade, aiming for creative storytelling and artistic expression central to the Carnaval experience.
Renata Spallicci's experience is emblematic of many individuals who face dire health challenges. Her return to the dazzling lights of the sambadrome signifies hope, strength, and community. The joy visible on her face resonates beyond the carnaval community, offering inspiration to anyone who watches her story of triumph.
The Carnaval 2025 is not just another event; it becomes more than just sequined costumes and rhythmic drums. It highlights stories of healing, resilience, and the collective spirit of overcoming obstacles, all of which Renata has become the face of this year. With the passion and dedication of every samba dancer, the scene is set for what promises to be a memorable celebration.
Renata closed her reflections on this significant occasion by expressing her gratitude to the communities supporting her throughout her challenges. This Carnaval serves as both her debut and her declaration of victory against adversity. The festivities this year, illuminated by the wisdom of her experience, truly shape the narrative around Carnaval 2025.