Anitta chosen as Grande Rio drum queen for 2027 Carnival

Singer Anitta has reportedly accepted an invitation to become the new drum queen (rainha de bateria) for the Acadêmicos do Grande Rio samba school for the 2027 Carnival. The official announcement is expected to take place on Saturday, August 22.

Anitta will succeed influencer Virginia Fonseca, who recently stepped down from the role to focus on her family and professional commitments. Before securing Anitta, the school of Duque de Caxias reportedly approached actress Paolla Oliveira to return to the position, but she declined the invitation.

Anitta has previous experience in the Rio de Janeiro Carnival, having performed as a muse for Mocidade Independente de Padre Miguel in 2016. The school aims to maintain high media visibility and engagement by selecting a high-profile personality for the role.