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Rihanna Gets Official Title After Barbados Removes Queen Elizabeth II As Head Of State

Rihanna Gets Official Title After Barbados Removes Queen Elizabeth II As Head Of State

The singer was told to keep shining like a diamond and 'bring honour to your nation by your works, by your actions'.

Stewart Perrie

Stewart Perrie

Pop star Rihanna has been given an official title after her home country of Barbados became a republic.

The Caribbean island nation has ditched Queen Elizabeth II as their head of state and has ushered in a new era on the 55th anniversary of their independence from the UK.

During the ceremony, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley declared Rihanna is a 'national hero', which is a title she gets to now wear with pride.

Alamy

The Prime Minister said: "On behalf of a grateful nation, but an even prouder people, we therefore present to you the designee for national hero for Barbados, ambassador Robyn Rihanna Fenty.

"May you continue to shine like a diamond and bring honour to your nation by your works, by your actions."

She was recognised for her incredible career in the music industry, her game changing Fenty beauty and lingerie range and for being an incredible ambassador for the country.

The title means that she is now able to call herself The Right Honourable Robyn Rihanna Fenty.

The 'Umbrella' singer is the 11th person in Barbados to be given the 'national hero' title and only the second woman.

Prince Charles was there on behalf of the British monarchy to see Barbados officially cut ties with them.

He delivered a speech during the ceremony that congratulated them on embarking on a new future while also highlighting the UK and Barbados' near 400 year bond.

Alamy

"From the darkest days of our past, and the appalling atrocity of slavery, which forever stains our histories, the people of this island forged their path with extraordinary fortitude," he said.

"Emancipation, self-government and independence were your way-points. Freedom, justice and self-determination have been your guides."

The republic ceremony also saw the inauguration of President-elect Sandra Mason, who has previously been the country's Governor-General and representative for Barbados with the Queen.

It's the first time a country has ditched the Queen has their head of state in nearly 30 years.

While Barbados will still remain part of the Commonwealth, some commentators believe the country's move to become a republic could create a 'domino effect' and see other nations replace the monarch.

Featured Image Credit: Alamy

Topics: Entertainment, Rihanna