Juliana Paes, a renowned Brazilian actress, made a notable comeback to Sapucaí after a 17-year hiatus, showcasing a striking costume adorned with stones from the Italian brand Dolce & Gabbana. Her return was met with excitement, as she helmed the role of 'rainha de bateria' for the Viradouro samba school. Amidst her return, she expressed that while the role may not have a formal score, it holds the important mission of spreading joy during Carnival festivities. Paes reflected on the anticipation leading up to her performance, describing a mix of emotions including dryness in her mouth and a racing heart, highlighting the excitement of being back on the Sambadrome stage.

During interviews prior to how passage down the runway, Paes told reporters about her mixed feelings, jokingly noting that the nervousness was part of the experience, which she embraced. She felt honored by the public's positive reception to her return. When asked about whether she would remain in the role of rainha de bateria for subsequent years, she remained non-committal, stating, "It’s too early to say anything. What brought me back was this theme in homage to Ciça and love for my school." This reflects her deep connection not only to the Carnival tradition but also to the samba school that has been a part of her identity for many years, further emphasizing the cultural significance of her role in the event.