Former star of The Voice Kids, Karen Silva, has died at the age of 17 after spending days in hospital following a haemorrhagic stroke

A former star of The Voice Kids has died aged just 17 after suffering a stroke. Karen Silva died in the early hours of Thursday morning after days in hospital.

Her death was caused by a haemorrhagic stroke due to bleeding into the brain by the rupture of a blood vessel.became

Karen became known to the public following her bid for success on The Voice Kids in Brazil. In 2020, aged just 12 at the time, she made it through to the semi-final stage of the talent contest.

Her spokesperson said: “More than just a promising artist, Karen was a symbol of empowerment. Especially for young black girls who found in her an inspiration and the strength to dream.”

They added: “Her music, her message, and her joy leave a lasting mark on all who knew her and followed her journey.”

Karen died aged 17 ( 
Image:
Jam Press)
She is said to have died in Volta Redonda, northwest of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, according to NeedToKnow. Karen is survived by her parents and her boyfriend, Marcelo.

Speaking of the tragedy, her dad Sérgio da Silva told local media that the singer hadn’t shown any signs of illness before her stroke. He said: “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.”

Renowned Brazilian singer and percussionist, Carlinhos Brown, who was a judge on The Voice Brasil, was among those paying tribute to the teen online.

On Twitter/X the star’s translated post read: “This morning, we were all taken by surprise by the sudden departure of Karen Silva, who walked into the stages of The Voice, was part of our teams and will leave memories of the utmost importance to us all.

Tributes poured in for Karen ( 
Image:
Jam Press)
“Karen Silva shined in our show and in life — always happy and willing to learn more in music. Today, with feelings and condolences to his family, we bid farewell to this powerful person.”

“What we have left is hope in the sacred.
We don’t know God’s designs and how He acts on souls. I fully believe she is the chosen one to reaffirm in us the desire to win. May God bless your spirit and put you in a good place.”

Karen’s first vocal coach, Lana Netto, also said: “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.”