Rihanna is back in the music spotlight — but this time, she’s gone blue. The multi-hyphenate mogul, who’s spent the past few years dominating beauty and fashion through her FENTY empire, is returning to the studio with “Friend Of Mine,” a brand new track featured in the upcoming Smurfs film.
Premiered in the animated movie’s latest trailer, “Friend Of Mine” is set for release on Friday, May 16, marking Rihanna’s first original song since 2022’s Oscar-nominated “Lift Me Up” from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. This latest track is part of a star-studded soundtrack that also features “Higher Love” by DESI TRILL, DJ Khaled, and Cardi B.
In a rare return to acting, Rihanna also lends her voice to Smurfette, starring alongside an A-list cast including John Goodman, James Corden, Nick Offerman, and Sandra Oh. The Bajan superstar has described the project as “a fun journey,” revealing in a 2023 interview that she recorded much of the voice work while pregnant with her second son, Riot.
“I got to imagine, I got to show up in my pajamas in my third trimester, and be a blue badass,” she joked.
And the surprises keep coming. Rihanna recently confirmed her third pregnancy, making a show-stopping appearance at the 2025 Met Gala alongside partner A$AP Rocky. The couple’s growing family has only added to the wave of support and love they’ve received from fans.
“She’s glowing, we’re happy, and that’s what matters,” A$AP Rocky said in a recent interview, adding, “Love is love.”
As for “Friend Of Mine,” fans are already bracing for a comeback moment — even if it’s tied to a blue animated franchise. With Rihanna’s signature emotional depth and star power, it’s clear that even in a Smurf suit, she can steal the spotlight.
Watch the trailer now and get ready for the return of Rihanna this Friday.
