by Mary Spiller
August 16, 2025
Music legend Diana Ross has withdrawn, citing “unexpected circumstances,” only a few days earlier than Star of the Seas’ christening voyage.
Diana Ross will not function godmother for Royal Caribbean’s latest ship, Star of the Seas, after her crew introduced she would miss the extremely anticipated christening voyage attributable to “unexpected circumstances.”
“Resulting from unexpected circumstances, Diana Ross will probably be unable to seem,” a consultant for the 81-year-old music icon instructed Folks journal on Aug. 12.
Royal Caribbean responded with disappointment however mentioned plans to nominate a brand new godmother are already underway. “We’re upset however excited to call a brand new godmother quickly,” the corporate shared.
Ross was first revealed as godmother in June, with Royal Caribbean President and CEO Michael Bayley calling her an excellent match. “I couldn’t think about a extra becoming godmother for Star than Diana Ross,” Bayley mentioned in a earlier assertion.
The three-day showcase voyage, scheduled to depart Aug. 20 from Port Canaveral, Florida, was set to characteristic a ceremonial champagne christening and a cease at Royal Caribbean’s non-public island, Excellent Day at CocoCay.
In accepting the distinction earlier this summer time, Ross mentioned in a launch, “I’m actually honored to hitch the Royal Caribbean household. Having spent years creating lovely music and reminiscences and bringing folks collectively from all around the world, this looks like an ideal continuation of my journey as godmother of Star of the Seas.”
Talking additional to Folks in regards to the position, Ross mentioned, “I’ve at all times felt a deep connection to the ocean and the magic it represents — peace, journey, and awe. When Royal Caribbean reached out to ask me to be the godmother of Star of the Seas, I knew it was one thing actually particular.”
Ross had shared that her youngsters and grandchildren can be becoming a member of her on the christening voyage. “That’s actually what this ship is all about — pleasure and household enjoyable,” she mentioned.
The title of godmother carries a deep maritime custom, symbolizing blessings of security, prosperity, and safety for a brand new vessel. Royal Caribbean has beforehand chosen ladies of worldwide affect for the position, honoring figures reminiscent of Oprah Winfrey, Jennifer Hudson, Mariah Carey, and Whoopi Goldberg.
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