Marco Paulo, Legendary Portuguese Singer, Passes Away at 79 After Long Battle with Cancer

Marco Paulo, one of Portugal‘s most beloved and enduring singers, passed away on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at the age of 79. Born João Simão da Silva on January 21, 1945, in Mourão, Portugal, Marco Paulo was a stalwart figure in Portuguese music for over five decades.

Known for his powerful and distinctive voice, Marco Paulo was the interpreter of numerous iconic songs, including “Eu Tenho Dois Amores,” “Taras e Manias,” “Sempre que Brilha o Sol,” and “Joana.” His career was marked by immense success, with over 70 albums released and more than five million copies sold, earning him 140 gold, platinum, and silver awards, as well as a diamond award.

Marco Paulo’s health had been a concern for several years as he battled various forms of cancer. He had been diagnosed with colon cancer in 1996, breast cancer in 2020, and more recently, tumors in his lung and liver. Despite these challenges, he continued to perform and engage with his audience through his weekly program “Alô Marco Paulo” on SIC, which he co-hosted with Ana Marques.

The singer’s impact on Portuguese music and culture was widely acknowledged. He was honored with the title of Comendador da Ordem do Infante D. Henrique by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa in 2022 and received a Golden Globe award. His legacy extends beyond his music to his work as a television presenter, including shows like “Música no Coração” and his recent series on SIC and the OPTO platform.

President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Prime Minister Luís Montenegro expressed their condolences, highlighting Marco Paulo’s significant contribution to Portuguese music and his enduring presence across generations.

Daniel Oliveira, the director-general of SIC, also paid tribute to Marco Paulo, praising his unwavering spirit and dedication to his craft despite his health struggles. Oliveira noted that Marco Paulo’s program on SIC brought him immense joy and a sense of connection with his audience until the very end).