Beth Andrade, iconic figure of Rio's Mocidade samba school, dies at 75

Beth Andrade, born Elizabeth Costa de Andrade da Silva, died on Friday at the age of 75. She was a celebrated former star of the Mocidade Independente de Padre Miguel samba school, appearing prominently in the opening cars of the school's parades during the 1980s and 1990s.

Andrade was the daughter‑in‑law of famed carnival patron Castor de Andrade, having been married to his son Paulinho Andrade, who was assassinated in 1998. Beyond her on‑stage role, she helped create the school's children’s samba group, the Estrelinha da Mocidade, and remained a respected figure in the carnival community. The school posted a tribute on its social media, noting that the show on Friday and the upcoming parade would honor her memory.