Anitta named Grande Rio drum queen for 2027 Carnival

The samba school Acadêmicos do Grande Rio has announced singer Anitta as its new ‘rainha de bateria’ (drum queen) for the 2027 Carnival. The 33-year-old artist will succeed influencer Virginia Fonseca, who held the position for the 2026 Carnival.

Anitta stated that her friendship with actress Paolla Oliveira influenced her decision to accept the role. Anitta noted that she inquired whether Oliveira had been invited to return to the position first, describing the actress as a ‘spectacular queen.’ Oliveira expressed her support for Anitta on social media, wishing her success in the role.

The announcement drew attention due to the absence of Virginia Fonseca at the traditional crown-passing ceremony. Fonseca’s representatives clarified that the lack of a ceremony was due to a specific request from Anitta herself, which the school chose to honor. The team emphasized that Fonseca remained respectful and responsible in all her commitments to the institution.