Renata Spallicci made a spectacular return to the São Paulo Carnival as the queen of the Águia de Ouro samba school on March 1, 2025, after bravely battling cancer diagnosed in 2023. The moment marked not just her return to the carnival but also signified her victory over personal challenges and the beginning of a renewed chapter in her life.
At 42 years old, Renata, who is not only an executive and writer but also a former bodybuilder, opened the second night of the carnival's Group Special with boundless energy and enthusiasm, referring to it as her "Carnival of healing." The evening was steeped with emotion as she paraded down the Sambódromo do Anhembi, reflecting on her arduous months of treatment and recovery. "Passa um filme na minha cabeça, superação, estou feliz, mentalizando tudo de lindo que quero viver na avenida," she expressed, illustrating the joy and relief of being back where she belongs.
Renata's fight against cancer involved surgery and chemotherapy, necessitating her temporary withdrawal from the vibrant samba scene she loves dearly. Throughout her treatment, she maintained her passion for samba, using it as a beacon of strength. Motivated by her desire to return stronger than ever, she adopted a disciplined training regimen and strict dietary plan. On the day of the event, she consumed six meals consisting of 15 rice cakes and 30 grams of raisins, alongside preparing with intense cardio workouts to regain her stamina: "Foi um choque quando voltei e perceber como não tava condicionada, foi um susto. Não parei de treinar, só no período do tratamento. Mas o samba é um cardio intenso, estava sem fôlego," she admitted, highlighting the challenges faced during her recovery phase.
The Águia de Ouro's opening night brought the theme "Em retalhos de cetim, a Águia de Ouro do jeito que a vida quer," honoring singer Benito di Paula, who significantly influenced Renata's youth. Her elaborate costume, adorned with 300 roses, celebrated her resilience and artistry. Reflecting on this connection, she stated, "Cresci ouvindo Benito, ele tem uma descendência cigana que me conecta às minhas raízes," indicating how deeply intertwined her life experiences are with her cultural heritage.
Her return was not just personal; it represented the collective spirit of the carnival community, rallying around her as she embraced her new health and well-being. "Sinto que a comunidade me abraçou como pessoa, não só como rainha," she noted, emphasizing the warmth and support she has felt from her peers. This sense of belonging has served as both inspiration and motivation, reinforcing her love for samba.
With her fierce dedication and passion for the carnival, Renata prepared rigorously for her role as queen. She engaged the help of fitness trainers and even incorporated beauty treatments focusing on post-recovery health. "Sou vaidosa, mas quero mostrar que somos humanas," she remarked, illustrating her acknowledgement of imperfection amid societal pressures for perfection.
The carnival spectacle of 2025 not only showcased samba performances but also served as the stage for stories of hope and resilience like Renata's. Her vibrant spirit, woven with the pulse of the samba and her unwavering contributors, painted her story of triumph.
The schedule for the São Paulo Carnival featured numerous schools over various nights, with Águia de Ouro entering the spotlight as one of the favorites poised for victory, fueled by the strength of its performances and the loyalty of its community. The carnival calendar began on February 22, 2025, and culminated with the champions' parade on March 2, allowing Renata to reclaim her heartfelt stance within this cherished tradition.
This exhilarating return to the Anhembi symbolizes much more than just samba for Renata. It's about embracing life fully, overcoming adversity with courage, and proving to herself and others the power of resilience. By sharing her story, she hopes to inspire many following similar paths, reminding them of the boundless possibilities of renewal and strength.
Renata Spallicci’s return to the carnival is not merely about reviving her role as queen; it serves as a beacon for all those who face their challenges. Her story exemplifies the spirit of the São Paulo Carnival, where strength, community support, and art combined create lasting memories and legacies.