A decade has passed since Rihanna released her acclaimed album, 'Anti,' a pivotal work that marked a shift from her earlier dance-pop sound to a more introspective style. While fans eagerly await new music, the superstar has been anything but idle, dedicating her immense talent and influence to a diverse array of projects. Her journey since 2016 showcases a remarkable evolution from a music sensation to a multifaceted global figure, establishing an impressive legacy across various industries and personal milestones.
Following 'Anti,' Rihanna briefly returned to music in 2017, collaborating with Future on 'Selfish.' Her acting career also saw a resurgence with a recurring role in 'Bates Motel,' where she portrayed a key character for two episodes. She continued her musical partnerships, notably on Kendrick Lamar's 'Loyalty,' which earned them a Grammy, and DJ Khaled's hit 'Wild Thoughts.'
Expanding her cinematic portfolio, Rihanna starred as Bubble, a shape-shifter, in Luc Besson's science fiction film 'Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets.' This period also marked her significant entry into the business world with the launch of Fenty Beauty in 2017. The brand revolutionized the cosmetics industry by offering an extensive range of foundation shades, catering to diverse skin tones and reflecting Rihanna's commitment to inclusivity. This venture signaled a major pivot towards entrepreneurship.
In 2018, Rihanna further diversified her business endeavors by introducing Savage x Fenty, a lingerie brand that quickly gained popularity for its inclusive sizing and body-positive messaging. The brand’s debut at New York Fashion Week was a major event. Concurrently, she joined an all-female ensemble cast in the film 'Ocean's 8,' and later featured in Donald Glover's musical film 'Guava Island.' In 2020, she made a musical appearance on PartyNextDoor's track 'Believe It,' and her personal life took a new turn as she began a relationship with A$AP Rocky.
The year 2021 was monumental for Rihanna, as she officially achieved billionaire status, becoming the wealthiest female musician globally. Her philanthropic and representational roles also deepened, with Barbados appointing her as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary in 2018, and later recognizing her as a national hero in 2021. Between 2022 and 2025, Rihanna embraced motherhood, welcoming three children with A$AP Rocky: RZA, Riot, and Rocki. Her second pregnancy announcement during the 2023 Super Bowl halftime show became an iconic cultural moment.
Rihanna's recent career highlights include her return to music as a lead artist in 2022 with songs for the 'Black Panther: Wakanda Forever' soundtrack, which subsequently earned her Oscar and Golden Globe nominations. Her highly anticipated performance at the Super Bowl halftime show in 2023 further cemented her status as a global icon, blending music, fashion, and personal announcements on a grand stage. Most recently, she voiced Smurfette and released a new song, 'Friend of Mine,' for the 2025 'Smurfs' movie, marking her foray into family entertainment.
From groundbreaking music to influential beauty and fashion enterprises, significant acting roles, and a burgeoning family, Rihanna's past decade demonstrates an unparalleled expansion of her professional and personal life. Her journey illustrates a powerful blend of artistic innovation, entrepreneurial vision, and cultural impact, inspiring millions worldwide.