Heartbreaking news is hitting the headlines as reports claim Rihanna‘s father, Ronald Fenty, has passed away at 70. His death comes just days after the singer and her brother Rajad were spotted at a Los Angeles hospital, where their dad was reportedly battling an illness. The family is now said to be gathering in the same city to celebrate Ronald’s life following his demise.
Rihanna’s Father Reportedly Passes Away at 70
According to TMZ, Ronald Fenty passed away in Los Angeles on Saturday, May 31. While the official cause of his death hasn’t been confirmed, sources close to the situation say Ronald had been dealing with health issues. Photos obtained by the outlet show Rihanna’s brother, Rajad Fenty, pulling up to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center on Wednesday, May 28. It’s believed that Rihanna was also in the car, but she stayed out of sight.
The ‘Diamonds’ singer and her dad had a tight bond over the years, with Ronald Fenty often by her side at red-carpet events, always giving off that proud dad energy. The Barbados native leaves behind Rihanna and her siblings Rajad and Rorrey from his relationship with their mom, Monica Braithwaite. Additionally, he leaves behind his other kids, Kandy, Samantha, and Jamie.
Rihanna hasn’t spoken out about her dad’s passing as of yet, but we’re keeping her and the Fenty family in our prayers during this difficult time. Per Page Six, her family is currently gathering in Los Angeles to commemorate Ronald’s life.
Ronald Fenty Previously Gushed About Rihanna’s First Pregnancy
Rih-Rih’s loss hits extra hard as she is currently expecting her third child with A$AP Rocky. Ronald couldn’t contain his excitement when Rih was expecting her firstborn, RZA, in 2022. In the chat with Page Six, he spilled about how thrilled he was to see his daughter finally step into motherhood.
“I’m ecstatic,” he said. “Rihanna always said she wanted children, she loves kids. She’s going to be a good mom.”
Ronald even shared how Rih broke the news, sending him ultrasound pics that had him “over the moon.” He gushed, “She’s beautiful inside and out.”
Social Media Reacts To Ronald Fenty’s Passing
As Rihanna navigates losing her dad, Ronald Fenty, while preparing to welcome another bundle of joy, her fans are sending her messages of strength and support. On X (formerly known as Twitter), this is what they’re saying:
@MsAnjaliB wrote, “Oh no. Our condolences. Sending love and strength to Rihanna and her family. ”
@ClaudiaKite wrote, “Losing your dad is the worst pain ever. Sending her my love. ”
@thecityismine_x shared, “Oh no, that’s such sad news to hear. My heart goes out to Rihanna and her family during this difficult time.”
@stonecolekam wrote, “So close to fathers day and a new grandbaby my heart hurts for the family”
@rockstar82vansh shared, “while she’s pregnant too? prayers to her family ”
@asunsweetj commented, “70 years is a life well lived. Praying for comfort and peace for Rihanna and her family as they navigate this loss”