Could Taylor Russell Play Rihanna? The Pop Star Spills Her Biopic Casting Choice

Rihanna is the youngest self-made female billionaire in America. Photo: CNN.

Rihanna recently dropped an unexpected name for the actress she’d cast to play herself in a hypothetical biopic. At the Fenty Hair launch event, Rihanna was asked who she would want to “pretend to be me” if a movie about her life ever came to fruition. 

Without missing a beat, she named Taylor Russell, a rising star in Hollywood known for her award-winning performance in Bones and All (2022).

“Taylor Russell,” Rihanna confidently told E! News. “You know why? ’Cause she got, like, a nice forehead. She’s, like, fly. And I feel like I want to be her, so I want her to pretend to be me. I want people to see me in that light.”

Rihanna’s choice has already sparked excitement among fans. Taylor Russell, 27, has made waves in the film industry, winning the Marcello Mastroianni Award for Best Young Actor at the Venice Film Festival. She’s known for her ability to bring emotional depth to her roles, a quality that would be vital in portraying someone as multifaceted as Rihanna.

Taylor Russell Photo: Getty Images

Russell’s ability to capture an audience’s attention aligns with Rihanna’s magnetic presence. Besides, with her recent projects and the recognition she’s received, Russell could indeed carry the weight of portraying Rihanna’s rise to fame, from music superstar to billionaire business mogul.

For Rihanna, the idea of a biopic is not far-fetched, given her extraordinary journey. From releasing her debut album Music of the Sun in 2005 to building an empire with Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty, Rihanna has crafted a legacy that goes beyond music.

Her story is one of resilience, reinvention, and breaking barriers, and it’s easy to see why fans are eager to see it on screen.

The singer’s admiration for Russell may stem from a recognition of her versatility. Rihanna herself has successfully worn many hats—singer, actress, fashion icon, entrepreneur, and now mother.

Russell, who once dreamed of becoming a ballet dancer, has also navigated diverse interests before finding her footing in acting, making her a fitting choice to play the multifaceted Rihanna.

While the biopic is hypothetical at this stage, Rihanna’s mention of Russell has fans buzzing with excitement. Russell, currently in pre-production for a Korean thriller title Hope, has yet to respond publicly to Rihanna’s shoutout. However, her connection to Rihanna’s world isn’t entirely new.

Russell, who has previously been linked romantically to pop icon Harry Styles, has also shown her musical side. In an interview with W Magazine, she reminisced about singing a Destiny’s Child song in front of her school at 13—a moment she described as both terrifying and unforgettable.

Rihanna’s career has shown no signs of slowing down, even as she juggles multiple roles. Recently, she donned a T-shirt that cheekily declared “I’m Retired,” causing a stir among fans who have been eagerly awaiting new music. Rihanna quickly clarified that her break from music was necessary to focus on her other ventures.

Russell at the 2024 Met Gala in New York City last month. ANGELA WEISS/AFP/Getty Images

On the red carpet, she told Entertainment Tonight, “I have been working on the album for so long that I kinda just put all that stuff aside. And now I’m prepared to go back in the studio. So now I’m prepared.

So I’m gonna start. So don’t, you know…[bug me about it].” These words reignited hope for fans longing for new music, suggesting that Rihanna is ready to dive back into the studio.

As Rihanna moves forward with her plans, it’s clear that Taylor Russell could be a strong contender for portraying her life on screen. Russell’s acting chops and poised demeanor make her a compelling choice, while her experience in both acting and music adds another layer of compatibility. Her journey parallels Rihanna’s in many ways, as both women have achieved success in unconventional paths and aren’t afraid to take risks.

While there’s no official confirmation of a Rihanna biopic, her casting choice gives fans a glimpse into how she sees herself and what qualities she values. Her admiration for Russell reflects a mutual respect for artistry, versatility, and strength.

Rihanna’s story—filled with ambition, creativity, and reinvention—would indeed make for an unforgettable film, and Taylor Russell could very well be the one to bring it to life.

For now, fans can only imagine what a film like that would look like. But with Rihanna’s recent hint at new music, they won’t have to wait long to see what else she has in store. Whether it’s in a recording studio or on the silver screen, Rihanna continues to captivate audiences worldwide.