Global music icon and beauty mogul Rihanna has spoken out for the first time since the passing of her father, Ronald Fenty, who died on May 31, 2025, at the age of 70 following a brief illness.
The singer, who rarely shares personal grief publicly, opened up about her father’s death during the Los Angeles premiere of the upcoming Smurfs movie, where she reflected on his impact on her life and how his legacy continues to shape the way she parents her two sons.
In an emotional interview, Rihanna revealed how much she had hoped her father would get to experience life as a grandfather to her children, RZA and Riot, whom she shares with rapper A$AP Rocky.
“I’ve always wanted that and I’ve always dreamed of what type of grandfather he would be to them because of the favorite parts of my dad. I think it prepared me for having two boys,” she said, her voice laced with both sorrow and nostalgia.
Rihanna’s relationship with her father, though complicated in the past, had evolved into one of mutual love and understanding. She previously supported him during his battle with COVID-19 in 2020, sending a ventilator to his home in Barbados and ensuring he received the care he needed.
At the premiere, dressed in a radiant blue ensemble fitting for her Smurfs character debut, Rihanna revealed how her father’s adventurous nature influenced her parenting style. She credited him for instilling in her a zest for life that she now hopes to pass on to her boys.
“The adventure side of me, the outside side of me, the daredevil. It’s how I want to raise them and I want them to be outside and be in nature,” she noted.
Ronald Fenty, a Barbadian of Afro-Guyanese descent, was known for his lively spirit and charisma, traits Rihanna fondly remembers and associates with her most cherished childhood memories. As a fashion designer and father of six, he remained a figure whose life experiences and lessons deeply impacted Rihanna’s journey to stardom.
Fans and celebrities alike have since poured in tributes, celebrating Ronald’s life and offering support to Rihanna during this difficult time.
With her appearance at the Smurfs premiere marking a graceful return to the spotlight amid personal loss, Rihanna’s heartfelt reflections offered a rare glimpse into the emotional depth behind her larger-than-life public persona and reminded the world that even global superstars carry the weight of personal grief and family dreams unfulfilled.
