In a devastating announcement that has sent shockwaves through the entertainment world, global superstar Rihanna has heartbreakingly confirmed the passing of her father, Ronald Fenty, at the age of 70. The tragic news was shared just 30 minutes ago via Rihanna’s official social media accounts, accompanied by a heartfelt message that left millions of fans in tears.

According to early reports, Ronald Fenty passed away peacefully at his home in Barbados after a brief but serious illness. While the family has not officially disclosed the exact cause of death, sources close to the Fenty family have revealed that Ronald had been quietly battling complications related to a chronic respiratory condition, which worsened significantly over the past few weeks.

A Complicated Yet Unbreakable Bond

Though Rihanna and her father had a famously complicated relationship, marked by years of estrangement and public controversies, the singer never stopped acknowledging the deep, irreplaceable bond they shared. Ronald Fenty, a former warehouse supervisor and fashion designer, played a significant role in Rihanna’s early life and upbringing in Saint Michael, Barbados.

Back in 2020, Rihanna made headlines for reuniting with her father after he tested positive for COVID-19, ensuring he received private medical care and support despite their rocky past. In a 2019 interview with Vogue, the Grammy-winning artist admitted, “We have our issues, but at the end of the day, he’s still my dad.”

Today, that father-daughter connection met its heartbreaking conclusion.

Rihanna’s Emotional Statement

At 11:00 AM local time, Rihanna took to Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) to share the somber news. The post featured a black-and-white photo of a young Rihanna sitting on her father’s lap, smiling brightly — a memory frozen in time.

The caption read:

“Daddy, no words can explain how shattered I am right now. Thank you for being the first man I ever loved, for your laughter, your stubbornness, your lessons. We didn’t always see eye to eye, but you were always my heart. Rest now, pops. Love you forever. 💔🕊️”

The message immediately went viral, with over 10 million likes and 500,000 comments within minutes. Fellow celebrities, fans, and public figures flooded Rihanna’s page with messages of support, condolences, and prayers.

Tributes Pouring In

Notable figures from the entertainment industry have already shared their condolences. Beyoncé, A$AP Rocky, Drake, and Nicki Minaj each posted heartfelt tributes to the late Ronald Fenty and expressed solidarity with Rihanna during this painful time.

A$AP Rocky, Rihanna’s partner and father of her two young sons, posted a simple yet poignant message:

“You were loved, Pops. Thank you for raising a queen.”

Even Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, issued an official statement expressing sorrow on behalf of the nation:

“Barbados mourns with Robyn Rihanna Fenty today. Ronald Fenty was a proud Bajan and his memory will live on through his family and this country’s heart.”

A Private Funeral to Be Held

Sources close to the Fenty family confirmed that funeral arrangements are underway and will likely be a private, family-only ceremony held in Bridgetown, Barbados later this week. While fans and well-wishers are urged to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult period, a public memorial may be organized in the coming months.

A Life Remembered

Though often embroiled in controversies over the years, Ronald Fenty was also a charismatic figure known for his infectious sense of humor, love for Caribbean music, and deep pride in his daughter’s success. Despite their turbulent relationship, insiders reveal that Ronald remained one of Rihanna’s biggest supporters behind the scenes.

His death marks the end of a complicated chapter in Rihanna’s life — one filled with both pain and profound love.

The World Stands with Rihanna

As news continues to spread, social media remains flooded with the hashtag #RIPRonaldFenty, as fans around the world express their grief and support for the pop icon. For many, this moment serves as a reminder of Rihanna’s humanity behind the fame, fortune, and celebrity persona.

In times of loss, even the world’s biggest stars are just daughters mourning their fathers.

Rest in peace, Ronald Fenty. 1955-2025.