Marco Paulo became one of Portugal’s most popular singers
Portuguese singer Marco Paulo has died at the age of 79, following a long battle against cancer.
The beloved artist, known for his iconic voice and hugely popular songs, had been battling different bouts of cancer since 1996, when he was diagnosed with colon cancer. He underwent surgery and treatment, overcoming the disease at the time. However, nearly two decades later, he faced another devastating diagnosis –this time breast cancer. After surgery and further treatment, he once again triumphed over the illness.
Another cancer diagnosis followed in 2022, however, when metastases were discovered in his lungs and his liver. Despite undergoing chemotherapy, the singer succumbed to the illness this Thursday (October 24).
Over his lengthy career, Marco Paulo became a beloved figure in Portuguese music, lending his voice to many hit songs, some of which became ingrained in Portuguese culture, such as ‘Maravilhoso Coração’, and perhaps his most notable of all, ‘Eu Tenho Dois Amores’ (I Have Two Loves).
In recognition of his contributions to Portuguese culture, Marco Paulo received several awards, including being named a Commander of the Order of Infante D. Henrique, an honour bestowed upon him by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.
In the final years of his career, Marco Paulo took on a new role as the host of Alô Marco Paulo on SIC, alongside Ana Marques, every Saturday.
His death has been lamented by Portugal’s two most important political figures.
Prime Minister, Luís Montenegro, took to X to pay tribute to the singer.
“I pay a heartfelt tribute to Marco Paulo, a big reference of Portuguese culture who left us today. He leaves a strong musical legacy behind, which spans generations and unites Portugal,” the PM wrote, sending his and the government’s condolences to the singer’s family and friends.
Meanwhile, President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, took to the presidency’s official website to release a statement lamenting the singer’s passing.
“The President of the Republic was saddened by the news of the passing of singer Marco Paulo, who was a part of Portugal’s musical life for many decades, and expresses his condolences to his family, friends, and admirers,” the statement reads.
Speaking to journalists this morning, he elaborated on his relationship with the singer, whom he considered his friend: “He is remembered by many Portuguese, and in that sense, as one of those Portuguese and as his friend, I receive the news of his passing with sorrow, though it was almost expected”.
