The entertainment world is in mourning following the sudden death of Léo Blanco, a celebrated choreographer from the Brazilian edition of Dancing With The Stars. He was 47 years old.
Details of the Choreographer's Sudden Passing
According to reports from The Sun, Blanco was discovered unresponsive at his residence in Curitiba, Brazil, on January 9. The precise cause of his death remains unknown at this time, leaving colleagues and fans seeking answers.
Blanco was a prominent figure on Danca dos Famosos, the local version of the globally popular celebrity dance competition. His work behind the scenes helped shape the performances of many famous contestants over the years.
Tributes from a Grieving Star
Among those paying heartfelt tribute is Brazilian actress Mariana Xavier, who was partnered with Blanco on the show in 2017. In a moving post translated from Portuguese, she remembered him as far more than just a teacher.
"Leo Blanco was my dance teacher on Dancing with the Stars in 2017, but more than that: he was the best partner I could have had in realising that dream, which was his dream too," Xavier wrote.
She described him as "one of the sweetest and most generous people" she had ever met, a person who left a permanent mark on her heart. Xavier recalled a touching tradition they shared, centred on the first song they ever danced to on the programme.
"From time to time, when one of us heard it by chance, we would send a message to the other to say, 'I'm here, I remembered you, you're important to me,'" she shared. Their last meeting was at Carnival in 2025 in Salvador, a joyful reunion where they revelled in the music that defined their partnership.
A Legacy of Passion and Partnership
The shocking news has sent waves of grief through Brazil's entertainment and dance communities. While the investigation into his untimely death continues, the focus for many remains on the vibrant legacy he leaves behind.
Léo Blanco is remembered not only for his choreographic talent but for the profound personal connections he forged. His ability to be both a guide and a genuine partner to stars like Mariana Xavier underscores the profound impact he had on those he worked with, both on and off the glittering dance floor of Danca dos Famosos.
