(Foxton News) — An enormous crowd packed Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach on Saturday as pop icon Lady Gaga delivered a spectacular free concert, drawing what officials estimated to be over two million fans.
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Eager attendees began lining up early in the morning to claim prime spots for the event, which was funded by local government. Organizers reported that the audience reached approximately 2.1 million people.
Speaking to CNN, a fan named Lucas said he believed the turnout may have even surpassed the crowd Madonna drew to the same beach a year earlier.
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“I think the city feels even more packed this time, but I’m thrilled,” said the filmmaker.
Many in the crowd—whom Lady Gaga affectionately calls her “Little Monsters”—came dressed in elaborate Gaga-inspired outfits, nodding to iconic songs like “Poker Face,” “Born This Way,” and “Bad Romance.”
Lady Gaga’s visit to Brazil is part of her worldwide tour promoting Mayhem, her latest album. The 39-year-old multi-genre singer and actress performed two shows in Mexico City just last week.
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On the eve of the Rio concert, Lady Gaga delighted beachgoers with an unexpected appearance on the Copacabana stage for a rehearsal performance.
“I’ve missed you so much,” she told the cheering crowd during what marked her first time performing in Brazil since 2012. “I know this isn’t the official show, just a rehearsal—but it feels like the real thing,” she added, before launching into her hit “Alejandro.”
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As she made her way toward the stage on Saturday night, Abril, a tourist from Argentina, shared her excitement with CNN Brazil, a CNN affiliate.
“The energy here in Copacabana is truly amazing,” she said. “Rio has this incredible vibe—it’s the perfect place for celebrations and unforgettable moments.”
