Presenter Xuxa Meneghel bared her soul in a recent interview, revisiting one of the most significant chapters of her life: her romance with legendary driver Ayrton Senna. In an emotional account, she revealed that the relationship, marked by intensity and deep connection, did not progress due to her choice to prioritize her career at a crucial moment. The decision, according to Xuxa, brought regrets that linger to this day, especially after Senna’s tragic death in 1994. The presenter, then at the peak of her television career in Brazil, detailed how her focus on work prevented her from valuing her relationship with the three-time Formula 1 world champion, whom she affectionately called “Beco.”
The romance between Xuxa and Senna, which took place between 1988 and 1989, was one of the most talked-about relationships of the time. The presenter, then in her early 20s, hosted wildly successful children’s programs on Rede Globo, while Senna shone on the racetracks, establishing himself as one of the greatest drivers in history. Despite their evident chemistry, Xuxa admitted she was not emotionally ready to invest in the relationship. “All I thought about was work. He was the right person at the wrong time,” she stated, emphasizing that her immaturity and intense dedication to her career pushed the relationship to the background.
Senna’s death, the result of a fatal accident during the Imola Grand Prix in Italy, was a turning point for Xuxa. The grief over the driver’s loss led her to rethink her priorities and recognize the importance of valuing personal relationships. “When I lost him, I realized I hadn’t given myself the chance to live something special. It was a shock that made me look inward,” she declared. This moment of reflection marked the beginning of a personal transformation, later reflected in her relationship with her daughter, Sasha, and her marriage to musician Junno Andrade.

A love interrupted by fate
The relationship between Xuxa and Ayrton Senna began during a period of meteoric rise for both. While Xuxa captivated children’s audiences with her charisma and programs like “Xou da Xuxa,” Senna dominated Formula 1, winning his first world championship in 1988. The relationship, though brief, was intense. Xuxa described Senna as someone who helped her see her own femininity, something she neglected at the time in favor of work. “He showed me how important my womanly side was, and I didn’t value it,” she revealed.
The presenter also shared personal memories that highlight the special connection they shared. According to her, Senna had a “scent” that enchanted her, a memory that still moves her today. However, her packed schedule and career demands made building a future together difficult. “I didn’t have time for myself, let alone for a relationship. I saw simple, happy couples and felt unhappy for not having that,” she confessed, recalling a moment when, passing by a bus stop, she envied the simplicity of a passionate couple.
Senna’s death at age 34 not only shocked the world but also left a profound mark on Xuxa. The Imola accident, broadcast live to millions, abruptly ended any possibility of reconciliation or a new chapter for their story. “It was as if he was torn from my life, by fate and by myself,” she lamented.
The impact of career on personal life
Xuxa’s trajectory in Brazilian television is one of the most successful in entertainment history. In the 1980s and 1990s, she became a cultural icon, hosting programs that shaped generations and expanding her brand into film, music, and international markets. However, this success came at a high cost. The presenter revealed that her total dedication to work left her emotionally distant from herself. “I wasn’t doing anything for me, only for others. I didn’t have time to think about what I wanted,” she stated.
This grueling routine included daily recordings, tours across Brazil and abroad, and advertising commitments. Xuxa recalled that, even at the height of her fame, she felt an emptiness. “I saw people living simple loves and thought, ‘I want that for myself.’ But I didn’t allow myself to stop,” she said. The pressure to maintain a relentless work pace was intensified by Rede Globo, which saw the presenter as one of its biggest stars.
Reflection on the impact of her career came late, after Senna’s death. Xuxa began to question whether professional success was worth sacrificing personal relationships. “Everything I achieved came at a cost. You can’t have it all without paying a price,” she pondered. This realization led her to seek greater balance in her life, especially after the birth of Sasha in 1998, who became her top priority.
- Key milestones in Xuxa’s career in the 1980s and 1990s:
- Debut of “Xou da Xuxa” in 1986, reaching millions of viewers daily.
- Release of children’s films, such as “Super Xuxa Against Low Spirits” (1988).
- Recording albums in English and Spanish, expanding her career to Latin America.
- International tours, with shows in countries like Argentina and Spain.

Transformation after loss
Senna’s death was a turning point in Xuxa’s life. The grief led her to reassess her choices and seek purpose beyond fame. “Losing Beco made me realize I needed to love and be loved. That changed everything,” she stated. This emotional awakening materialized with the arrival of Sasha, born from her relationship with actor Luciano Szafir. Motherhood gave new meaning to the presenter’s life, who began prioritizing her daughter above all.
Years later, now more mature, Xuxa found in musician Junno Andrade the partner she always wanted. Married to him since 2012, the presenter emphasizes that their current relationship is the result of greater clarity about what she values in a partner. “With Ju, I knew what I wanted: someone who loved me and whom I could call mine,” she said. Her relationship with Junno, according to her, is marked by lightness and partnership, contrasting with the intensity and conflicts of her youth.
The presenter also spoke about how her experience with Senna helped her reconnect with her essence. “He made me realize I could be more than the ‘Queen of the Little Ones.’ I could be a woman, a mother, a partner,” she reflected. This transformation was gradual but essential for Xuxa to find balance between her public and personal lives.
Memorable moments of the romance
The romance between Xuxa and Senna was short but filled with moments etched in the presenter’s memory. They met at a promotional event, and the connection was immediate. “It was something different. He had an energy, a way of looking that marked me,” Xuxa recalled. Despite the chemistry, the relationship faced logistical challenges: Senna traveled constantly for races, while Xuxa was immersed in recordings and commitments.
One of the most striking episodes, according to the presenter, was realizing that Senna made her feel things she had never experienced before. “I loved his scent, the way he looked at me. It was special,” she revealed. However, her lack of time and immaturity made it difficult to sustain the relationship. “I wasn’t ready to give him what he deserved. And he had his life, his races, his world,” she admitted.
The breakup, though amicable, left its mark. Xuxa revealed that, even after the end, she held a special affection for Senna. When he passed away, the presenter was in a transitional moment in her career, and the news deeply shook her. “It was like losing a part of me. I didn’t realize how much he still meant,” she confessed.
- Curiosities about Xuxa and Senna’s romance:
- They met in 1988 at an event in Rio de Janeiro.
- Senna called Xuxa “Xuxinha,” and she called him “Beco.”
- The couple was rarely photographed together, due to their discretion.
- After the breakup, Senna began dating Adriane Galisteu, with whom he was at the time of his death.
Senna’s legacy in Xuxa’s life
Ayrton Senna’s influence on Xuxa’s trajectory goes beyond their romance. The presenter highlighted that the driver helped her see the importance of living authentically. “He was so intense, so genuine. That marked me,” she stated. This lesson became even clearer after Senna’s death, when Xuxa began seeking a greater purpose in her life.
Motherhood was one of the fruits of this transformation. Sasha, now 26, is Xuxa’s greatest pride, and she often speaks about her daughter’s importance in her journey. “She was my great love, my reason to change. Everything I did afterward was for her,” she declared. Her relationship with Junno Andrade also reflects this new phase, marked by greater serenity and self-awareness.
Xuxa also acknowledges that Senna’s impact transcends her personal story. The driver, a global icon, left a legacy of determination and humanity. “He was more than a driver. He was someone who inspired people to be better,” she said. This legacy lives on through the Ayrton Senna Institute, founded in 1994, which promotes education for children and youth across Brazil.
A career of achievements and sacrifices
Xuxa’s trajectory is an example of resounding success but also personal challenges. In the 1980s, she revolutionized Brazilian television with a unique style, combining charisma, spontaneity, and closeness with her young audience. “Xou da Xuxa” became a cultural phenomenon, achieving audience ratings few programs could match. Films, records, and tours solidified her position as one of Brazil’s biggest stars.
However, the frenetic pace of work took its toll. Xuxa revealed that, for many years, she lived to meet others’ expectations. “I didn’t stop. It was recordings, shows, trips, ads. I didn’t have time for myself,” she recounted. This dedication led her to forgo personal moments, like her relationship with Senna, which could have changed her emotional path.
Now, at 62, Xuxa reflects on her journey with maturity. “Everything I achieved was incredible, but I learned that what matters most is what you carry in your heart,” she stated. Her career, though marked by ups and downs, remains active, with appearances on TV programs, musical projects, and a segment on Rede Globo’s “Fantástico.”
- Milestones in Xuxa’s career after the 1990s:
- Launch of “Xuxa Park” (1994-2001), aimed at children.
- Debut of “Planeta Xuxa” (1997-2002), targeting youth and teens.
- Participation in reality shows like “Dancing Brasil” (2017-2019).
- Segment on “Fantástico” in 2024, marking her return to Globo.
The search for balance
Maturity has brought Xuxa a new perspective on life. After decades of an intense career, she now values time with family and simple moments. “Today, I know what I want. I want to be with those I love, to live lightly,” she stated. This shift in mindset is evident in her relationship with Junno Andrade, with whom she shares moments of partnership and support.
The presenter also dedicates herself to social causes, such as animal protection and support for educational projects. Her foundation, the Xuxa Meneghel Foundation, established in 1989, promotes initiatives for children and teens in vulnerable situations. “I want to leave a legacy beyond TV. I want to help those in need,” she declared.
Her story with Senna, though part of the past, remains an essential piece of her narrative. Xuxa does not hide the impact the driver had on her life but prefers to look forward with gratitude. “Everything I’ve lived brought me here. I’m thankful for every moment, even the hardest ones,” she stated.
Timeline of the relationship and impact
- 1988: Xuxa and Ayrton Senna meet at an event in Rio de Janeiro and begin dating.
- 1989: The relationship ends due to their busy schedules.
- 1994: Senna dies in an accident at the Imola Grand Prix, deeply affecting Xuxa.
- 1998: Birth of Sasha, Xuxa’s daughter with Luciano Szafir, marking a new phase.
- 2012: Xuxa begins her relationship with Junno Andrade, with whom she remains married.
A life of lessons
Xuxa Meneghel’s trajectory is a blend of triumphs and personal challenges. Her story with Ayrton Senna, though brief, serves as a reminder of how choices can shape the future. The presenter acknowledges that her dedication to her career led her to forgo a love that could have been transformative but also believes every experience made her who she is today.
Today, Xuxa lives a phase of balance, dividing her time between professional projects and dedication to family and social causes. Her story with Senna remains an unforgettable chapter, but she prefers to focus on the present. “I learned to value what truly matters. Love, family, simple moments,” she stated.
The presenter also reflects on her impact on Brazilian cultural history. “I was part of so many people’s childhoods. That’s a huge responsibility, but also a joy,” she said. Her programs, films, and music continue to inspire generations, and her media presence maintains her relevance.
- Memorable moments in Xuxa’s life:
- Television debut with “Clube da Criança” (1983) on Rede Manchete.
- Consolidation as a children’s icon with “Xou da Xuxa” (1986-1992).
- International expansion with programs and albums in Spanish (1990).
- Return to Globo with special segments in 2024.

Presenter Xuxa Meneghel bared her soul in a recent interview, revisiting one of the most significant chapters of her life: her romance with legendary driver Ayrton Senna. In an emotional account, she revealed that the relationship, marked by intensity and deep connection, did not progress due to her choice to prioritize her career at a crucial moment. The decision, according to Xuxa, brought regrets that linger to this day, especially after Senna’s tragic death in 1994. The presenter, then at the peak of her television career in Brazil, detailed how her focus on work prevented her from valuing her relationship with the three-time Formula 1 world champion, whom she affectionately called “Beco.”
The romance between Xuxa and Senna, which took place between 1988 and 1989, was one of the most talked-about relationships of the time. The presenter, then in her early 20s, hosted wildly successful children’s programs on Rede Globo, while Senna shone on the racetracks, establishing himself as one of the greatest drivers in history. Despite their evident chemistry, Xuxa admitted she was not emotionally ready to invest in the relationship. “All I thought about was work. He was the right person at the wrong time,” she stated, emphasizing that her immaturity and intense dedication to her career pushed the relationship to the background.
Senna’s death, the result of a fatal accident during the Imola Grand Prix in Italy, was a turning point for Xuxa. The grief over the driver’s loss led her to rethink her priorities and recognize the importance of valuing personal relationships. “When I lost him, I realized I hadn’t given myself the chance to live something special. It was a shock that made me look inward,” she declared. This moment of reflection marked the beginning of a personal transformation, later reflected in her relationship with her daughter, Sasha, and her marriage to musician Junno Andrade.

A love interrupted by fate
The relationship between Xuxa and Ayrton Senna began during a period of meteoric rise for both. While Xuxa captivated children’s audiences with her charisma and programs like “Xou da Xuxa,” Senna dominated Formula 1, winning his first world championship in 1988. The relationship, though brief, was intense. Xuxa described Senna as someone who helped her see her own femininity, something she neglected at the time in favor of work. “He showed me how important my womanly side was, and I didn’t value it,” she revealed.
The presenter also shared personal memories that highlight the special connection they shared. According to her, Senna had a “scent” that enchanted her, a memory that still moves her today. However, her packed schedule and career demands made building a future together difficult. “I didn’t have time for myself, let alone for a relationship. I saw simple, happy couples and felt unhappy for not having that,” she confessed, recalling a moment when, passing by a bus stop, she envied the simplicity of a passionate couple.
Senna’s death at age 34 not only shocked the world but also left a profound mark on Xuxa. The Imola accident, broadcast live to millions, abruptly ended any possibility of reconciliation or a new chapter for their story. “It was as if he was torn from my life, by fate and by myself,” she lamented.
The impact of career on personal life
Xuxa’s trajectory in Brazilian television is one of the most successful in entertainment history. In the 1980s and 1990s, she became a cultural icon, hosting programs that shaped generations and expanding her brand into film, music, and international markets. However, this success came at a high cost. The presenter revealed that her total dedication to work left her emotionally distant from herself. “I wasn’t doing anything for me, only for others. I didn’t have time to think about what I wanted,” she stated.
This grueling routine included daily recordings, tours across Brazil and abroad, and advertising commitments. Xuxa recalled that, even at the height of her fame, she felt an emptiness. “I saw people living simple loves and thought, ‘I want that for myself.’ But I didn’t allow myself to stop,” she said. The pressure to maintain a relentless work pace was intensified by Rede Globo, which saw the presenter as one of its biggest stars.
Reflection on the impact of her career came late, after Senna’s death. Xuxa began to question whether professional success was worth sacrificing personal relationships. “Everything I achieved came at a cost. You can’t have it all without paying a price,” she pondered. This realization led her to seek greater balance in her life, especially after the birth of Sasha in 1998, who became her top priority.
- Key milestones in Xuxa’s career in the 1980s and 1990s:
- Debut of “Xou da Xuxa” in 1986, reaching millions of viewers daily.
- Release of children’s films, such as “Super Xuxa Against Low Spirits” (1988).
- Recording albums in English and Spanish, expanding her career to Latin America.
- International tours, with shows in countries like Argentina and Spain.

Transformation after loss
Senna’s death was a turning point in Xuxa’s life. The grief led her to reassess her choices and seek purpose beyond fame. “Losing Beco made me realize I needed to love and be loved. That changed everything,” she stated. This emotional awakening materialized with the arrival of Sasha, born from her relationship with actor Luciano Szafir. Motherhood gave new meaning to the presenter’s life, who began prioritizing her daughter above all.
Years later, now more mature, Xuxa found in musician Junno Andrade the partner she always wanted. Married to him since 2012, the presenter emphasizes that their current relationship is the result of greater clarity about what she values in a partner. “With Ju, I knew what I wanted: someone who loved me and whom I could call mine,” she said. Her relationship with Junno, according to her, is marked by lightness and partnership, contrasting with the intensity and conflicts of her youth.
The presenter also spoke about how her experience with Senna helped her reconnect with her essence. “He made me realize I could be more than the ‘Queen of the Little Ones.’ I could be a woman, a mother, a partner,” she reflected. This transformation was gradual but essential for Xuxa to find balance between her public and personal lives.
Memorable moments of the romance
The romance between Xuxa and Senna was short but filled with moments etched in the presenter’s memory. They met at a promotional event, and the connection was immediate. “It was something different. He had an energy, a way of looking that marked me,” Xuxa recalled. Despite the chemistry, the relationship faced logistical challenges: Senna traveled constantly for races, while Xuxa was immersed in recordings and commitments.
One of the most striking episodes, according to the presenter, was realizing that Senna made her feel things she had never experienced before. “I loved his scent, the way he looked at me. It was special,” she revealed. However, her lack of time and immaturity made it difficult to sustain the relationship. “I wasn’t ready to give him what he deserved. And he had his life, his races, his world,” she admitted.
The breakup, though amicable, left its mark. Xuxa revealed that, even after the end, she held a special affection for Senna. When he passed away, the presenter was in a transitional moment in her career, and the news deeply shook her. “It was like losing a part of me. I didn’t realize how much he still meant,” she confessed.
- Curiosities about Xuxa and Senna’s romance:
- They met in 1988 at an event in Rio de Janeiro.
- Senna called Xuxa “Xuxinha,” and she called him “Beco.”
- The couple was rarely photographed together, due to their discretion.
- After the breakup, Senna began dating Adriane Galisteu, with whom he was at the time of his death.
Senna’s legacy in Xuxa’s life
Ayrton Senna’s influence on Xuxa’s trajectory goes beyond their romance. The presenter highlighted that the driver helped her see the importance of living authentically. “He was so intense, so genuine. That marked me,” she stated. This lesson became even clearer after Senna’s death, when Xuxa began seeking a greater purpose in her life.
Motherhood was one of the fruits of this transformation. Sasha, now 26, is Xuxa’s greatest pride, and she often speaks about her daughter’s importance in her journey. “She was my great love, my reason to change. Everything I did afterward was for her,” she declared. Her relationship with Junno Andrade also reflects this new phase, marked by greater serenity and self-awareness.
Xuxa also acknowledges that Senna’s impact transcends her personal story. The driver, a global icon, left a legacy of determination and humanity. “He was more than a driver. He was someone who inspired people to be better,” she said. This legacy lives on through the Ayrton Senna Institute, founded in 1994, which promotes education for children and youth across Brazil.
A career of achievements and sacrifices
Xuxa’s trajectory is an example of resounding success but also personal challenges. In the 1980s, she revolutionized Brazilian television with a unique style, combining charisma, spontaneity, and closeness with her young audience. “Xou da Xuxa” became a cultural phenomenon, achieving audience ratings few programs could match. Films, records, and tours solidified her position as one of Brazil’s biggest stars.
However, the frenetic pace of work took its toll. Xuxa revealed that, for many years, she lived to meet others’ expectations. “I didn’t stop. It was recordings, shows, trips, ads. I didn’t have time for myself,” she recounted. This dedication led her to forgo personal moments, like her relationship with Senna, which could have changed her emotional path.
Now, at 62, Xuxa reflects on her journey with maturity. “Everything I achieved was incredible, but I learned that what matters most is what you carry in your heart,” she stated. Her career, though marked by ups and downs, remains active, with appearances on TV programs, musical projects, and a segment on Rede Globo’s “Fantástico.”
- Milestones in Xuxa’s career after the 1990s:
- Launch of “Xuxa Park” (1994-2001), aimed at children.
- Debut of “Planeta Xuxa” (1997-2002), targeting youth and teens.
- Participation in reality shows like “Dancing Brasil” (2017-2019).
- Segment on “Fantástico” in 2024, marking her return to Globo.
The search for balance
Maturity has brought Xuxa a new perspective on life. After decades of an intense career, she now values time with family and simple moments. “Today, I know what I want. I want to be with those I love, to live lightly,” she stated. This shift in mindset is evident in her relationship with Junno Andrade, with whom she shares moments of partnership and support.
The presenter also dedicates herself to social causes, such as animal protection and support for educational projects. Her foundation, the Xuxa Meneghel Foundation, established in 1989, promotes initiatives for children and teens in vulnerable situations. “I want to leave a legacy beyond TV. I want to help those in need,” she declared.
Her story with Senna, though part of the past, remains an essential piece of her narrative. Xuxa does not hide the impact the driver had on her life but prefers to look forward with gratitude. “Everything I’ve lived brought me here. I’m thankful for every moment, even the hardest ones,” she stated.
Timeline of the relationship and impact
- 1988: Xuxa and Ayrton Senna meet at an event in Rio de Janeiro and begin dating.
- 1989: The relationship ends due to their busy schedules.
- 1994: Senna dies in an accident at the Imola Grand Prix, deeply affecting Xuxa.
- 1998: Birth of Sasha, Xuxa’s daughter with Luciano Szafir, marking a new phase.
- 2012: Xuxa begins her relationship with Junno Andrade, with whom she remains married.
A life of lessons
Xuxa Meneghel’s trajectory is a blend of triumphs and personal challenges. Her story with Ayrton Senna, though brief, serves as a reminder of how choices can shape the future. The presenter acknowledges that her dedication to her career led her to forgo a love that could have been transformative but also believes every experience made her who she is today.
Today, Xuxa lives a phase of balance, dividing her time between professional projects and dedication to family and social causes. Her story with Senna remains an unforgettable chapter, but she prefers to focus on the present. “I learned to value what truly matters. Love, family, simple moments,” she stated.
The presenter also reflects on her impact on Brazilian cultural history. “I was part of so many people’s childhoods. That’s a huge responsibility, but also a joy,” she said. Her programs, films, and music continue to inspire generations, and her media presence maintains her relevance.
- Memorable moments in Xuxa’s life:
- Television debut with “Clube da Criança” (1983) on Rede Manchete.
- Consolidation as a children’s icon with “Xou da Xuxa” (1986-1992).
- International expansion with programs and albums in Spanish (1990).
- Return to Globo with special segments in 2024.
