Paolla Oliveira crowned Imperatriz Leopoldinense drum queen

Actress Paolla Oliveira was officially crowned the new drum queen (rainha de bateria) of the Imperatriz Leopoldinense samba school during a celebration in Ramos, Rio de Janeiro. The ceremony, which took place on Saturday, saw Oliveira receive the crown and sash from singer Iza, who previously held the position.

The event, known as ‘CarnaPaolla’, featured musical performances by Jorge Aragão, Xande de Pilares, and Iza. During the transition, Oliveira and Iza shared a brief, affectionate kiss, which was described by Iza as a spontaneous expression of their friendship and intimacy.

Oliveira’s move to Imperatriz marks a new chapter in her Carnival career following a seven-year tenure with the Grande Rio samba school. She clarified that her departure from Grande Rio was a personal choice and not a rejection of the institution, noting that Grande Rio already had a confirmed queen for the upcoming cycle when she decided to join Imperatriz. Oliveira is set to lead the Imperatriz drums for the 2027 Carnival season.