Tragic News: Rihanna’s Father Ronald Fenty Passes Away at 70

In a somber development, Ronald Fenty, the father of global superstar Rihanna, has been reported to have died at the age of 70. The news was confirmed early Saturday morning in Los Angeles, according to reports from Starcom Network News, a prominent radio station based in Barbados, Rihanna’s homeland.

Details Surrounding His Passing

While the exact cause of death has not been officially disclosed, sources indicate that Fenty succumbed after battling a brief illness. Family members and close friends have gathered in California to honor his memory and celebrate his life, reflecting the impact he had on those around him.

Public Response and Rihanna’s Silence

As of now, Rihanna has not issued a public statement regarding her father’s passing. Her representatives have also refrained from commenting to the media. Meanwhile, photographs obtained by Page Six show Rihanna’s brother, Rajad Fenty, arriving at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles earlier this week to visit their father. It is believed that Rihanna was present in the vehicle with her brother during the visit, although she was not visible in the images.

Family Visits and Support

Images captured by paparazzi depict Rajad Fenty entering the hospital to be with his father, highlighting the family’s ongoing efforts to support each other during this difficult time. Rihanna’s absence from the photos has sparked curiosity, but her current whereabouts remain private.

Rihanna’s Personal Life Amidst the Loss

This heartbreaking news coincides with Rihanna’s exciting personal milestone-her pregnancy with her third child, announced earlier this month at the Met Gala. The singer revealed her growing baby bump publicly, sharing her joy with fans worldwide.

Complex Family Dynamics

Rihanna, born Robyn Rihanna Fenty, has had a tumultuous relationship with her father over the years. Reports suggest that Ronald Fenty struggled with alcohol and substance abuse, which contributed to tensions between them. Notably, he divorced Rihanna’s mother, Monica Braithwaite, when Rihanna was just 14 years old, further complicating their relationship.

Historical Strains and Reconciliation

In a 2011 interview with Vogue, Rihanna described her relationship with her father as “definitely complicated,” explaining that growing up with him was a mix of love and confusion. She recounted her disbelief when she learned of his questionable actions, which challenged her perception of family loyalty. Despite these issues, she later revealed in 2012 that they had begun to mend their bond, acknowledging that she learned to distinguish her father’s role from his shortcomings as a husband.

However, by 2019, their relationship appeared to have deteriorated again, leading Rihanna to take legal action against her father. She sued him over allegations that he was using her name for financial gain through his fashion company, Fenty Leisure, which he claimed was associated with her brand. This legal dispute marked a setback in their ongoing efforts to reconcile.

Reflections on Their Relationship

Rihanna has openly discussed the complexities of her relationship with her father. In a 2011 interview, she described it as “definitely queer,” emphasizing the emotional rollercoaster they experienced. She expressed her initial belief that her father would never behave inappropriately toward her, only to be confronted with harsh realities that strained their connection.

Despite past conflicts, Rihanna has spoken about her efforts to forgive and move forward. She has highlighted her ability to separate her father’s personal flaws from her love for him, especially after their reconciliation in 2012. Yet, their relationship has remained fragile, with legal disputes and personal differences surfacing over the years.

Legacy and Family Bonds

Ronald Fenty, who faced his own struggles with addiction, was a significant figure in Rihanna’s life. Despite their rocky history, he expressed pride in his role as a grandfather, especially after Rihanna welcomed her son RZA in May 2022 with her partner, A$AP Rocky. Ronald shared that Rihanna had brought her son back to Barbados twice, describing her as a “very protective mother” who is deeply loving and committed to her family.

Final Thoughts

The loss of Ronald Fenty marks a poignant chapter in Rihanna’s life, reminding fans and followers of the complex tapestry of family, fame, and personal resilience. As she navigates her grief, the world continues to celebrate her achievements and her unwavering strength in the face of adversity.