Karen Silva Cause of Death: The Voice Kids Star Dies at 17

Karen Silva, a former semi-finalist on The Voice Kids Brazil, has tragically passed away at the young age of 17. The talented singer died on Thursday morning at approximately 5am following a haemorrhagic stroke, caused by a ruptured blood vessel that led to bleeding in the brain.

Karen was admitted to São João Batista Hospital in Volta Redonda and spent several days under intensive medical care before her untimely passing. A heartfelt statement released on her official Instagram page confirmed the news, “It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of the young singer Karen Silva, aged 17, occurred after days of hospitalization at São João Batista Hospital, in Volta Redonda, as a result of a hemorrhagic stroke.”

Karen rose to national fame in 2020 when she captured hearts across Brazil during her run to the semi-finals of The Voice Kids at just 12 years old. With a voice well beyond her years, she left a lasting impact on audiences and judges alike,“Karen enchanted Brazil with her powerful voice and striking presence even in childhood, when she participated in The Voice Kids in 2020. Since then, she has followed a luminous path, uniting talent, charisma and representation at every step,” the statement continued.

More than a rising star, Karen became a symbol of empowerment for young Black girls across the country. Her presence in the spotlight served as a source of inspiration and pride, “More than an up-and-coming artist, Karen was a symbol of empowerment, especially for Black girls who found in her inspiration and strength to dream. Her music, her message and her joy leave a deep mark on all who met her and followed her journey.”

“In this moment of great pain, we send our solidarity to their parents, Manoella and Fernando, with friends, family and fans. May the memory of your light continue to guide us.”

Karen’s passion for music began early. At just eight years old, she started vocal training to sing Edward Hawkins’ Oh Happy Day. Her first coach, Lana Netto, remembers the moment she knew Karen was destined for something special, “After just a few lessons, she sang the song and enchanted everyone with her striking voice. From that day on, Karen never stopped singing and captivating people.”

Karen is survived by her parents, Manoella and Fernando, and her boyfriend, Marcelo. Her father, Fernando Sérgio da Silva, expressed his heartbreak to local media, “She left home to have lunch on Friday, and three hours later she was in a coma. For this year, 2025, we had big plans. For her, her clothing brand, new songs for her album. To know my daughter passed like this, it hurts so much. It still hasn’t sunk in.”

Her cousin, Thais Silva, also paid tribute: “She was such an incredible girl, really perfect, you know? Funny, charismatic, spontaneous. Wherever she went, she won everyone over.”

Karen Silva’s death has left a void in the hearts of many who followed her journey. Her light, however, continues to shine through her music, her message, and the lives she touched.