The legendary singer Diana Ross has bowed out as the godmother of Royal Caribbean’s newest Icon-class ship, Star of the Seas, just days before its much-anticipated naming ceremony.
Ross, who was officially announced as godmother back in June 2025, was set to preside over the August 20 christening in Port Canaveral, Florida a maritime tradition meant to bring good luck to the vessel and its future guests. The event was planned as a glittering celebration in the ship’s AquaDome, complete with music, VIP appearances, and a ceremonial bottle smash.
A Sudden Change of Plans
Royal Caribbean confirmed that Ross withdrew “due to unforeseen circumstances.” While the cruise line didn’t give further details, the singer’s U.S. “Beautiful Love” tour began on August 16 in California, suggesting a scheduling conflict may have played a part.
The cruise line released a statement expressing disappointment but emphasized that a new godmother will be revealed soon. With only days until the ceremony, the search is on to find someone who can match the star power Ross was set to bring.
Who Could Step In?
Royal Caribbean is keeping its shortlist under wraps, but history shows the cruise line has a knack for big-name surprises. Earlier this year, the Icon of the Seas made waves when global soccer star Lionel Messi served as godfather. Speculation is swirling that the replacement could be a high-profile entertainer, athlete, or even a figure tied to the ship’s family and adventure themes.
Some fans have even floated the idea of selecting a godparent with ties to animal welfare, inspired by the ship’s resident canine “Chief Dog Officer,” Sailor.
Diana Ross’s sudden withdrawal as godmother of Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas isn’t the first time a ship’s naming ceremony faced a last-minute shake-up. Over the years, several high-profile godmother announcements have been altered, delayed, or even replaced entirely
Kate Middleton – Royal Princess
When Princess Cruises named Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, as godmother to Royal Princess, the news brought global attention. But her attendance at the June 2013 ceremony was uncertain—she was in the final weeks of pregnancy with Prince George. Princess Cruises reportedly had contingency plans ready in case she couldn’t make the trip. In the end, Kate attended as planned, delivering a short speech and cutting the ceremonial ribbon just weeks before giving birth, making it one of the most memorable godmother appearances in cruise history.
Sophia Loren – Multiple MSC Ships
Sophia Loren has become synonymous with MSC Cruises, having christened more than a dozen of its ships over the years. But on at least two occasions, Loren was unable to attend the ceremony in person due to travel or scheduling conflicts. In those cases, MSC adapted by having her participate remotely through pre-recorded messages, while another high-profile figure handled the live hosting duties. It was a reminder that even the most enduring godmother relationships can face logistical challenges.
Paula Abdul – Carnival Sensation
In the early 1990s, Carnival Cruise Line announced singer Paula Abdul as godmother of Carnival Sensation. However, just before the ship’s debut, contractual and scheduling issues forced her to withdraw. Carnival quietly replaced her with another celebrity and moved forward without drawing much public attention to the change. While it lacked the drama of a public announcement, it showed that last-minute substitutions are sometimes the easiest way to keep a ceremony on track.
