Barbados Declares Rihanna a National Hero After Removing Queen Elizabeth II

On Monday, Barbados finally gained political independence from England and established itself as a republic. This means that Queen Elizabeth II ceases to be the nation's monarch and gives space to Dame Sandra Mason as the new representative and current president of the island. However, at the milestone's celebration event, the person who really stole the spotlight was Rihanna.

For those who don't know, the singer and businesswoman was born in Barbados's Saint Michael parish in the capital city of Bridgetown. Of course, Rihanna could not miss the long-awaited ceremony, which also served to name her as the nation's hero. By 2019, she had already been named an Honorary Ambassador for Youth and Culture by then Prime Minister David Thompson.

For the evening, the 33-year-old star opted for an orange dress with a satin finish and bare shoulders from Bottega Veneta. The country's current Prime Minister, Mia Mottley, delivered an emotional speech saying, “On behalf of a grateful nation, but an even more proud people, we present to you Barbados' designated national hero, Ambassador Robyn Rihanna Fenty. May you continue to shine like a diamond and honor your nation through your words, your actions, and giving credit wherever you go.”

Besides her, Prince Charles also made an appearance on behalf of Queen Elizabeth, who, due to health problems and advanced age, is no longer partaking in international travel.