She was born as Ilka Hack Soares in Rio de Janeiro on 21 June 1932.

[2][3] She met Anselmo Duarte during the filming of Iracema, where the Brazilian actress played a title role, and married him shortly afterwards.

She had previously been hospitalized at São Vicente Clinic, and had been undergoing cancer treatment.

[5] Her death was confirmed by her grandson, who posted a tribute to his grandmother on his Instagram profile.

[6] l The following is a list of selected feature films and TV series which Soares appeared in.