Right now, Rihanna is going through one of the toughest periods in her life.
While she’s joyfully expecting her third child, she’s also grappling with the sudden and painful loss of her father, Ronald Fenty.
Even though their relationship was complicated over the years—with ups and downs, arguments, and moments of reconciliation—this loss has hit the superstar hard.
An insider close to Rihanna shared with DailyMail.com that the mix of pregnancy hormones, legal issues involving her partner ASAP Rocky, and now her father’s declining health has been an emotional roller coaster for her.
“Even when you know it’s coming, losing a parent still feels like a crushing blow,” the source explained.
They added that, despite everything, Rihanna found some peace in forgiving her dad before his passing, reconnecting as a loving father and daughter.
A Painful but Healing Journey Through a Complex Relationship
Rihanna’s bond with her father was far from simple. For years, they had a strained relationship that occasionally made headlines.
Back in 2009, she opened up publicly about how they hadn’t spoken for over a year, revealing she had tried to mend fences but felt let down by him.
She once shared how her father embarrassed her during her tour by disrespecting people on her bus, which led her to distance herself.
Things worsened after her highly publicized assault by then-boyfriend Chris Brown when Ronald spoke to the media about private family matters—something that deeply disappointed Rihanna.
Despite these challenges, the two had moments of reconciliation.
For instance, Rihanna quietly funded a rehab program for Ronald to help him avoid jail after a 2013 arrest.
However, there were still tough times, like when he was asked to leave her Diamond Ball in 2014 after embarrassing behavior.
Family Matters and Legal Battles
Their rocky relationship also involved legal disputes. In 2019, Rihanna sued her father for using the Fenty name for his company and for falsely claiming to be her agent.
She eventually withdrew the lawsuit in 2021, suggesting they had reached a settlement.
Ronald’s personal struggles with addiction and heavy drinking also weighed on their relationship.
Rihanna has spoken openly about witnessing domestic violence during her childhood, including her father physically abusing her mother.
Moments of Support and Connection Despite Difficulties
Even with the ups and downs, there were signs of care and support between them.
When Ronald contracted COVID-19 early in the pandemic, he credited Rihanna with being there for him, checking in daily and even sending medical equipment to help him fight the illness from afar.
He once told The Sun how much he appreciated her support and love during those scary moments, showing a softer side to their complicated bond.
Remembering Ronald Fenty and Looking Ahead
Ronald Fenty passed away over the weekend in Los Angeles after a brief illness.
The official cause and exact date of death haven’t been released.
News of his passing comes as Rihanna prepares to welcome her third child with partner ASAP Rocky, adding a bittersweet note to this chapter in her life.
Ronald was one of six children and had three kids with Rihanna’s mother Monica Braithwaite, including Rihanna herself and her brothers Rajad and Rorrey.
Rihanna’s brother Rajad was recently spotted arriving at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, reportedly with Rihanna by his side.
Reflections on Fatherhood and Family Legacy
Despite all the struggles, Ronald expressed his happiness when he first learned Rihanna was starting her own family.
In interviews, he praised her love for children and his admiration for ASAP Rocky, who he called “a very cool guy.”
Hearing about Rihanna’s pregnancy made Ronald “jump for joy,” showing how, even in difficult times, family ties and love endure.
This loss, while heart-wrenching, highlights just how important family remains for the superstar as she steps into motherhood once again.