Fans all over Brazil and the world are grieving the sad loss of singer Vanessa Rios, who died at only 42 years old after a long and brave battle with cancer.
The cherished star, who had performed just this summer in the U.S., passed away on October 25 at a hospital where she was receiving treatment for a rare and aggressive type of lung cancer.
From local talent to national star
Vanessa was born and raised in Jaboatão dos Guararapes, which is part of Brazil's Greater Recife area, and her rise to fame was truly amazing.
Her journey started in 2010 when she joined the Brasília-based group Encosta Neu. Two years later, she made it big with her first hit song, “Lençol Vermelho” (Red Sheet), as a member of the band Boa Toda.
In 2014, Vanessa gained national fame after winning a TV competition to become the new lead singer of Kitara, taking over from the group's previous vocalist.
Her lively stage presence and amazing singing made her super popular, and soon she was performing with other famous forró bands like Forró do Muído and Capim com Mel.
“She brightened up every stage she stepped on,” a fan posted on social media. “Her voice expressed both happiness and sadness — she made you feel every word.”
Dream beyond Brazil
Vanessa's last concert in Brazil happened on April 12, at the Playlist Festival in Olinda, where she teamed up with the famous forró band Limão com Mel for a special live DVD recording.
During the show, she shared laughs with fans and yelled, “Make some noise if you're happy!” Later, she told the audience, “What a joy to be here with you, my loves.”
But that wasn't her final performance. Just two months later, in June 2025, she took the stage one last time at a Saint John's Day celebration in Florida, USA.
Her American husband, Joe Ridenhour, confirmed that this performance was her last before her health got worse. Vanessa had been living in the U.S. with Joe, trying to grow her career internationally while still getting treatment for her illness, according to G1.
Fierce fight against a rare cancer
Vanessa's fight against cancer started years ago. In 2019, doctors found a sarcoma in her leg, which she managed to beat after treatment. She celebrated her recovery publicly, proudly declaring she was “100% cured.”
But in 2023, tragedy hit again when she was diagnosed with pulmonary synovial sarcoma, a very rare and aggressive cancer that mostly affects young adults.
Even with the tough news, Vanessa didn't let go of her love for music. She kept performing, even while going through chemotherapy, inspiring her fans with her courage and hope.
In her last Instagram post in late September, she shared:
“It's not what we have in life, but who we have in our lives that matters. That's what truly matters – family is the anchor that keeps us steady through life's storms.”
Since then, her words have received thousands of comments from fans, friends, and fellow artists honoring her memory.
A farewell full of love
On Tuesday, October 28, Vanessa was cremated at Guararapes Memorial Cemetery in her hometown, surrounded by her family, friends, and fans.
Vanessa leaves behind her 16-year-old daughter, Larissa, whom she often referred to as her “greatest blessing and reason to smile.”
Larissa, her daughter, spoke through tears during the memorial:
“We can't measure the love we have for her. The pain will always be there, but I feel relief knowing she's no longer suffering. She's in a better place now — and she'll always be in our hearts.”
Vanessa's mother, Ana Nelma Alves Piedade, also shared her feelings:
“Our hearts are heavy, but we can't be selfish. She suffered so much. We thank God for taking her to rest. My little warrior will shine in heaven.”
Even her father talked about how Vanessa had asked for peace in her last days:
“She told us she wanted to be free from the pain. It's heartbreaking, but we find comfort in knowing she's finally resting.”
Her legacy lives on
Vanessa Rios's voice played a big role in shaping a generation of Brazilian brega and forró music.
Throughout her 15-year career, she performed with some of the most famous bands in the country — and gained a loyal fan base of over 680,000 followers on Instagram.
Her bravery, kindness, and thankfulness made a lasting impression on everyone who met her.
As one fan commented on her last post:
“You sang even when it hurt. You showed us what true strength is. Heaven just got the most amazing voice.”
It's really sad when someone so young is taken away from their family because of cancer. 💔 No one should have to experience that kind of suffering.
I'm sending all my love, strength, and sympathy to Vanessa Rios's family and her daughter, Larissa, during this really tough time. May her light and music shine on forever. 🕊️💐
