On May 31, 2025, the world learned of the passing of Ronald Fenty, father of global music icon Rihanna, at the age of 70. He died in Los Angeles following a brief illness, surrounded by family. Reports indicate that Rihanna and her brother, Rajad Fenty, were present at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in the days leading up to his passing.
A Complex Father-Daughter Relationship
Rihanna, born Robyn Rihanna Fenty in 1988, shared a complicated relationship with her father. Her childhood in Barbados was marked by Ronald’s struggles with substance abuse and domestic issues, leading to her parents’ divorce when she was 14. Despite these challenges, they experienced periods of reconciliation. In a 2012 interview with Oprah Winfrey, Rihanna spoke about coming to terms with her father’s flaws and appreciating the positive aspects of their relationship.
However, tensions resurfaced in 2019 when Rihanna filed a lawsuit against Ronald, accusing him of exploiting her name for his talent development company, Fenty Entertainment. The lawsuit was eventually dropped in 2021, and reports suggest they reconciled afterward.
A Time of Personal Transition
Ronald Fenty’s passing comes during a significant period in Rihanna’s life. She is currently expecting her third child with partner A$AP Rocky. Ronald had previously expressed joy in being a grandfather, praising Rihanna’s dedication to motherhood.
Remembering Ronald Fenty
Ronald Fenty is survived by his children: Rihanna, Rajad, Rorrey, and three others from previous relationships—Samantha, Kandy, and Jamie. While his relationship with Rihanna was marked by ups and downs, his passing is a poignant moment for the Fenty family. As they navigate this loss, the world extends its condolences to Rihanna and her loved ones.
