Mocidade Independente de Padre Miguel, a well-known samba school in Brazil, has publicly expressed their displeasure regarding a low score awarded by a judge for their samba enredo dedicated to the renowned singer Rita Lee. The school believes the score was unfairly impacted by the judge's interpretation of calling Lee a 'patroness', a title she herself embraced. This decision has sparked significant debate and discontent among the school's members and supporters.

Prominent figures such as Anitta and Felipe Neto have voiced their support for Mocidade Independente, echoing the sentiment that Rita Lee's choice to be referred to as 'patroness' should not have led to score deductions. Many in the Brazilian entertainment industry have rallied behind the school, suggesting that the judge's decision reflects broader issues of artistic interpretation and respect for artists’ self-identification.

This controversy not only highlights the intense scrutiny samba schools face during competitions but also raises questions about the criteria judges use to evaluate creativity and cultural expression. The incident could potentially lead to discussions regarding changes in judging practices, fostering a more inclusive and understanding environment for all artistic expressions within the samba community.