The world of music and entertainment was shaken on May 31, 2025, with the news of Ronald Fenty’s passing at age 70 in Los Angeles, following a brief illness. As the father of global superstar Rihanna, Ronald’s life was marked by personal triumphs, struggles, and a complicated relationship with his daughter that captured public attention. This blog delves into Ronald Fenty’s life, his impact on Rihanna’s journey, the circumstances of his death, and the legacy he leaves behind, offering a comprehensive look at a man whose story intertwines with one of music’s biggest icons.
Ronald Fenty’s Life: From Barbados to Global Recognition
Born on January 18, 1953, in Bridgetown, Barbados, Ronald Fenty grew up in modest circumstances, shaping his resilient and entrepreneurial spirit. A Barbadian of African, Irish, English, and Scottish descent, he worked as a warehouse supervisor and later ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing a chain of beauty salons and retail stores in Barbados during the 1980s. His business acumen earned him respect in his community, and he was known for supporting local charities, reflecting a commitment to giving back.
Ronald’s personal life, however, was fraught with challenges. He married Monica Braithwaite, an Afro-Guyanese accountant, and together they raised three children: Robyn Rihanna Fenty, born February 20, 1988, and her younger brothers, Rorrey and Rajad. Ronald also had three children from previous relationships—Samantha, Kandy, and Jamie. His struggles with alcoholism and crack cocaine addiction strained his marriage, leading to a divorce when Rihanna was 14. Rihanna later shared that her childhood was deeply affected by her father’s substance abuse and physical abuse toward her mother, Monica, including an incident where he broke her nose. Despite these hardships, Rihanna described Ronald as a loving father who taught her valuable life lessons.
A Tumultuous Father-Daughter Relationship
Rihanna’s relationship with Ronald was complex, marked by periods of estrangement and reconciliation. In a 2011 Vogue interview, she described their dynamic as “strange,” grappling with his absence and erratic behavior during her childhood. She recounted witnessing domestic violence and even trying to intervene in fights between her parents. A particularly painful moment came in 2009 when Ronald spoke to the press about Rihanna’s assault by then-boyfriend Chris Brown without her consent, further straining their bond.
Despite these challenges, moments of healing defined their journey. In 2012, Rihanna told Oprah Winfrey she had repaired her relationship with Ronald, acknowledging his flaws as a husband but cherishing his role as a father. In 2013, she funded a $58,000 rehab program in Malibu to help him overcome addiction, a gesture that highlighted her desire to support him. By 2020, when Ronald contracted COVID-19, Rihanna sent a ventilator to Barbados and checked on him daily, underscoring their renewed connection. Ronald expressed gratitude, saying, “I love you so much, Robyn,” referring to Rihanna by her birth name.
However, tensions resurfaced in 2019 when Rihanna sued Ronald for allegedly exploiting her name through his talent agency, Fenty Entertainment, which he founded in 2017. She claimed he falsely posed as her manager and attempted to profit from her Fenty brand, which includes Fenty Beauty and Savage x Fenty. The lawsuit, dropped in 2021 before trial, was a low point, though Ronald later claimed they had reconciled. His joy at becoming a grandfather to Rihanna’s sons, RZA (born 2022) and Riot Rose (born 2023), further signaled mended ties, as he described Rihanna as an “overprotective mother.”
Ronald Fenty’s Passing: A Family Gathers in Grief
On May 31, 2025, Ronald Fenty passed away in Los Angeles at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center after a brief illness, as first reported by Barbados-based Starcom Network News. While the official cause of death remains undisclosed, sources indicate he was surrounded by family, including Rihanna and her brother Rajad, who were photographed visiting the hospital on May 28. The timing of his death adds a poignant layer to Rihanna’s life, as she is currently expecting her third child with partner A$AP Rocky, a pregnancy she announced at the 2025 Met Gala. Rihanna has not yet publicly commented on her father’s passing, and her representatives have not responded to inquiries.
The news sparked an outpouring of condolences on platforms like X, with fans and outlets expressing sympathy for Rihanna and her family. Posts described Ronald as a significant figure in Rihanna’s life, despite their rocky history, and highlighted the emotional weight of his loss during her pregnancy. The family’s gathering in California to honor his memory underscores their efforts to come together in this moment of grief.
Ronald’s Legacy: Beyond Rihanna’s Shadow
While Ronald Fenty was often known as “Rihanna’s dad,” his life extended beyond his daughter’s fame. His entrepreneurial ventures in Barbados, from beauty salons to retail, showcased his determination to provide for his family despite early hardships. His philanthropy, supporting local causes, earned him recognition as a respected figure in Barbadian society. Ronald’s pride in Rihanna’s achievements was evident, particularly when he gifted her his first platinum LP and celebrated her motherhood.
His struggles with addiction and their impact on his family were public, but so was his resilience. Ronald’s efforts to overcome his challenges, supported by Rihanna’s interventions, highlighted a man striving for redemption. His joy at being a grandfather and his hope for Rihanna’s future—commenting in 2022 that she wanted three children—reflected a softer side that endeared him to those closest to him.
Rihanna’s Journey Forward
Rihanna, now 37, stands as one of the world’s most successful artists and entrepreneurs, with a net worth of $1.4 billion, driven by her music (250 million units sold globally) and Fenty brands. Her father’s passing comes at a transformative time, as she prepares for her third child and continues to expand her empire. Her 2023 Super Bowl halftime performance, 2020 NAACP Image Awards President’s Award, and ongoing work with the Clara Lionel Foundation reflect her multifaceted legacy. Ronald’s influence, both challenging and nurturing, undeniably shaped her resilience and drive.
Fans can honor Ronald’s memory by reflecting on Rihanna’s music, which often carries the emotional weight of her upbringing. Her 2025 projects, including potential new music and Fenty expansions, will likely carry a deeper personal resonance. To stay updated, follow Rihanna on Instagram, where her 155 million followers engage with her journey, or check Bandsintown for future tour announcements.
Conclusion
Ronald Fenty’s death at 70 marks a somber moment for Rihanna and her family, closing a chapter filled with love, conflict, and reconciliation. His life as a Barbadian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and complex father figure leaves a legacy intertwined with Rihanna’s rise to stardom. As fans mourn with the Fenty family, they’re encouraged to share their favorite Rihanna songs or memories in the comments, celebrating the music that carries Ronald’s influence. For those moved by this story, consider supporting Rihanna’s Clara Lionel Foundation or following her on social media to stay connected to her evolving journey. Ronald Fenty’s passing reminds us of the human stories behind the spotlight, where love and loss shape even the brightest stars.
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