Singer Anderson Leonardo, from Grupo Molejo, died this Friday (26), in Rio de Janeiro. The confirmation was made through a publication on the pagode group’s social networks. Anderson was facing cancer. He was 51 years old and was admitted to the Unimed-Rio Hospital.
“Our warrior Anderson Leonardo fought bravely, but unfortunately was defeated by cancer, but he will always be remembered by all his family, friends and his immense legion of fans, for his genius, strength and love of the stage and Molejo”, wrote the group.
“Your presence and joy were a light that illuminated the lives of everyone around you, and you will be deeply missed and never forgotten, we love you”, completes the publication.
Hospitalizations
The singer, songwriter and music producer had been facing inguinal cancer since 2022, which manifested itself in the groin area. In November and December 2022, he even appeared in videos on social media stating that he was cured.
However, in 2023 Anderson had to undergo several hospitalizations. In September last year, he left the hospital, but was never released for presentations or to receive visitors.
On February 27, 2024, he was hospitalized again to continue immunotherapy treatment and pain medication. On March 19, Anderson was medically discharged after undergoing the hypogastric nerve plexus block procedure to alleviate the pain. Six days later, he returned to the hospital in serious condition. He underwent treatment for an infectious condition with antibiotics.
On the 8th, it was reported that the singer was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) at Hospital Unimed-Rio. The information provided by the group’s advisors was that he was suffering from kidney failure, but was lucid and breathing without the help of equipment.
On the 22nd, Grupo Molejo made an appeal on social media for blood donations and reported that the artist was not expected to be discharged. He was accompanied by doctor Luiz Fernando Nogueira Simvoulidis.
Career
Born on August 18, 1972, Anderson was from Abolição, a suburb of Rio de Janeiro, and had contact with music since he was a child, especially due to the influence of his father, music producer Bira Haway.
The artist had one of the best-known and liveliest voices in the pagoda, especially in the 90s. The timbre was mixed with laughter that accompanied the singer in presentations and interviews. He was successful with songs such as Cilada, Brincadeira de Criança and Dança da Vassoura.
In 2016, to celebrate more than 30 years of career, the group released the album Molejo Club, investing in the modernization of its songs, while maintaining the high-spirited classic repertoire.
Anderson leaves four children: Leozinho, Alessa Crystine, Rafael Phelipe and Alice.
Repercussion
On social media, Leozinho published a farewell to his father. “I’m in your lap today, always, and forever. That’s my feeling. Love you,” he wrote.
The samba school Mocidade Independente de Padre Miguel referenced a piece of music from the pagode group to pay homage to Anderson. “It will always be good to be happy with Molejão.”
“Unfortunately, this is not child’s play and Estrela is devastated by the death of Anderson Leonardo”, lamented the school. “His voice, alongside my Andrezinho, marked an entire generation that grew up having fun with Molejo”. Andrezinho, one of the members of Molejo, is the son of the legendary master André, from the Mocidade drums.
Singer Xande de Pilares posted a video in which he plays and sings alongside Anderson. “Thank you for the opportunity to share many great moments with you, you were a giant. Rest in peace, my friend, my brother!!! We will be together for eternity,” he said goodbye.
Singer Dudu Nobre also wrote a message of condolence. “My brother, my friend, my partner. You were one of the most incredible guys I met, keep faith, my friend. We will always remember your joy and what a fantastic person you were.”
*Extended text at 5:20 pm to provide additional information
