Royal Caribbean Left Without Godmother After Diana Ross Cancels Last-Minute

Just days before Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas is set to make her grand debut, there’s been a shake-up – legendary Motown singer Diana Ross, announced in June as the ship’s official godmother, has withdrawn “due to unforeseen circumstances.”

The 81-year-old performer was described by the cruise line as the perfect choice to christen their second Icon-class vessel, and she shared her excitement at the time, calling the role “a perfect continuation” of her journey bringing people together through music.

The image is split into two halves. On the left, the massive “Star of the Seas” cruise ship is docked on calm water with colorful water slides and multiple decks visible under a clear blue sky. On the right, singer Diana Ross poses with voluminous curly hair and one hand on her forehead against a purple background with partial white text.

But with the naming ceremony scheduled for 20 August in Port Canaveral, the timing is tight — Ross has just wrapped a UK arena tour and is due to start her “Beautiful Love” US tour on 16 August, only four days before the event. Whatever the reason, Royal Caribbean is now racing to find a replacement to smash that champagne bottle against the hull.

Why a Godmother Matters

In cruise tradition, the godmother’s role is more than just ceremonial; she symbolically blesses the ship, its crew, and future guests for safe and prosperous voyages. The highlight is the champagne bottle smash against the bow, a ritual believed to bring good luck (and bad luck if it doesn’t break on the first try).

Godmothers are typically high-profile figures, from entertainers to philanthropists, chosen to represent the spirit of the ship. And while the title is usually given to women, there’s no rule against a male “godparent” — Lionel Messi, for example, took on the honour for Icon of the Seas.

Icon of the Seas

Who Could Replace Her?

With just days to go before the ceremony, Royal Caribbean hasn’t revealed who will step into the role, but the possibilities are wide open. Past choices have included Hollywood stars, world-famous athletes, and individuals recognised for charity or humanitarian work. Given that Star of the Seas has her very own Chief Dog Officer, a godparent connected to animal welfare wouldn’t be out of place.

Of course, the cruise line could follow Icon of the Seas’ example and go with a high-profile godfather instead. Until the announcement is made, it’s all speculation, but you can be sure Royal Caribbean will want someone who matches the ship’s star power.

What’s Next?

The naming ceremony for Star of the Seas is still set for 20 August at Port Canaveral, with celebrations planned in the ship’s striking AquaDome. Royal Caribbean has promised to reveal the new godmother, or godparent, before the big day, keeping fans and cruise watchers guessing in the meantime.

Whatever the outcome, the christening will mark the start of a new chapter for one of the world’s largest cruise ships, just ahead of her first official voyage. And you can bet we’ll be watching closely to see who gets the honour of sending Star of the Seas off in style.