Influencer Karol Eller, Bolsonaro supporter, dies at age 36

Conservative influencer Karol Eller, who supported Jair Bolsonaro’s (PL) candidacy in the 2018 elections, passed away on Thursday night (12) in São Paulo. Confirmation of the death was made by São Paulo state deputy Paulo Mansur (PL). The influencer worked in the parliamentarian’s office.

“It is with great sadness that we confirm the passing of Karol Eller. The pain is inexplicable. We just ask for prayers for your family at this time”, says the deputy’s note.

Karol, who has remained a supporter of the former president since Bolsonaro’s election, participated in his campaign in 2019 defending that Bolsonaro was not homophobic. At the time, she claimed to be a lesbian and took photos and recorded videos that were broadcast on the former president’s social networks with messages countering that Bolsonaro was prejudiced against homosexual people.

In January, she was dismissed from the position she had held since the end of 2019 at the Brazilian Communications Company (EBC) for participating in the events on January 8th. Despite this, the influencer recorded a video on the day of the events condemning the violence of the protests. “He lost control of the situation. It’s not cool. I’m walking here now to talk to you. They’re breaking there,” she said.

Bolsonaro, Tarcísio and conservative parliamentarians mourn death

This Friday morning, Bolsonaro published a black and white photo on social media with Karol’s face. The governor of São Paulo, Tarcísio de Freitas (Republicans) also released a statement lamenting his death, as did several right-wing parliamentarians and influencers who were close to Karol.

“I write this practically without strength, but unfortunately Karol Eller died. May the Lord comfort the lives of your family members”, said federal deputy Nikolas Ferreira (PL-MG).

“I received with great sadness the news of Karol Eller’s death, a person with a gigantic heart, a great woman. I ask for respect for Karol’s story and prayers for her soul and everyone’s comfort. May God receive her”, published senator Flavio Bolsonaro (PL-RJ).

“It is with great sadness that I receive the sad news of the passing of my friend and conservative activist, Karol Eller. Today, unfortunately, she died after battling depression that she had been facing in recent years. My condolences to the fans, followers and the entire family”, declared deputy Marcelo Álvaro Antônio (PL-MG).

Other influential figures on the right, such as Michelle Bolsonaro, Eduardo Bolsonaro (PL-SP), Zoe Martínez and Carla Zambelli (PL-SP), also expressed their regret over his death.