Published: July 14, 2025
Rihanna is stepping into a Smurf-tastic new role — and she couldn’t be more excited for her children to see it.
The 37-year-old superstar, who lends her voice to Smurfette in the new animated Smurfs movie, is bubbling with joy as the film prepares for its global release on July 18. Speaking to Extra, Rihanna shared her excitement about finally watching the completed movie — not just as a voice actor, but as a mom.
“We get to watch the movie together for the first time,” she said of her sons RZA, 3, and Riot, 23 months. “I get to watch it in its full completion. So, that should be interesting. It’s finally being birthed.”
A Long-Awaited Release
Rihanna admitted the film felt like a distant dream when she first began working on it years ago — but now, the premiere is finally here.
“We’ve been working on it for so long, like a few years now, actually. And it’s happening… You start working on something and 2025 feels so far away, and then we’re here.”
Introducing the Boys to Smurf Village
Interestingly, despite all her hard work behind the scenes, Rihanna said her sons weren’t aware she’s the voice of Smurfette — yet.
“The boys know nothing,” she joked. “They’re being introduced to Smurf Village right now, the blue carpet, and next is going to be me watching their reaction when they realise my voice is coming out of the screen. I can’t wait for that one.”
A Childhood Dream Come True
For Rihanna, this project wasn’t just another Hollywood gig — it was personal. The Smurfs held a special place in her heart growing up, making her casting feel like fate.
Ramsey Naito, President of Paramount Animation and Nickelodeon Animation, recently shared how Rihanna’s enthusiasm made her the ideal choice.
“When we first met with her, we learned that The Smurfs was her favourite show growing up, and from that moment, everything just clicked.”
“It felt completely natural to reimagine the Smurfs for today’s audience with Rihanna as Smurfette because her genuine love for the franchise made her the perfect fit.”
A Voice Full of Love
Rihanna brought more than just star power — she brought heart. According to Naito, her passion lit up the entire production.
“I think when you’re refreshing a beloved franchise like The Smurfs, the secret ingredient is love… Rihanna brought that passion, and it shines through in every part of the film.”
Joining Rihanna in this whimsical reboot are James Corden, Sandra Oh, Jimmy Kimmel, Octavia Spencer, Alex Winter, and Hannah Waddingham, rounding out a stellar ensemble.
As fans of all ages prepare to head back to Smurf Village, one thing’s certain: with Rihanna leading the way, the Smurfs are about to shine like never before — and her boys are in for the bluest surprise of their lives.
