Rihanna blasted for sexualizing religion in provocative cover (photos)

Rihanna is being accused of blasphemy and “religious mockery” after posing for risqué magazine cover photos believed to be sexualizing religion.

The photos causing consternation among religious devotees are on and in Interview. The singer, whose nickname is Bad Gal RiRi, is partially dressed as a nun but sporting bright red lipstick and an unbuttoned blouse, with her cleavage teasing anyone looking at the photos. 

Moreover, in the video portion of the photo shoot, Rihanna is casually caressing her left breast for added effect.

#Rihanna on the cover of Interview Magazine

What’s it giving ? pic.twitter.com/tHtNVkJqOp

— TeaWithTia (@RealTeaWithTia) April 9, 2024

Rihanna consents to the magazine that’s notorious for pushing boundaries

The publication, started in 1969 by artist and pop-culture provocateur Andy Warhol, began the story with the facetious headline, “Rihanna is ready to confess.” The reporter begins with, “OK. We’re going to start this f—ing interview.”

Many Rihanna fans and pop culture observers were offended by the startling images, according to X and The Daily Mail. 

“So tired with all this unholy imagery!!!!” a person penned.

A second user characterized the photos and video as “religious mockery.”

“I love Rihanna but I never understand why the obsession with sexualizing religious representations,” a third person said.

“Isn’t this blasphemy??” a fourth respondent asked rhetorically.

Terrible

— Tameka Gray (@Barbietieeee) April 9, 2024

It's honestly giving… a huge NO !

— Purple Skittle (@Blvd_Nights) April 9, 2024

It’s giving no thank you.

— Fawk Em. Free Tory. (@whoisteezy) April 9, 2024

Rihanna does have her defenders

The “Rude Boy” singer also has supporters. One fan surmised that “under every single person that has been a slutty nun for Halloween.”

Still, most took umbrage with the billionaire Barbadian beauty mogul, who consciously decided to participate in this provocative pictorial.

Another person believes it is “dehumanizing and degrading to see Christianity being continuously mocked and religious imagery being used for the wrong purposes.”