Tyla responds after viral Rihanna ‘ignore’ video sparks social media debate

South African music star Tyla has addressed social media speculation after a viral clip appeared to show Rihanna ignoring her during a recent interaction.

The discussion gained traction online after X account @BlackMedia shared a video suggesting the Grammy-winning singer had been snubbed by Rihanna.

Now, Tyla has responded directly to the backlash and cleared up what really happened.

“Everyone knows I love Ri”

Speaking about the encounter, Tyla explained that she first met Rihanna last year and insisted there was no bad blood between them.

“Everyone knows I love Ri,” Tyla said.

“So I met her last year, and she was cool. But I think she was occupied.”

According to Tyla, she greeted the Fenty Beauty founder, who greeted her back before mentioning that “my baby daddy is calling me.”

Rihanna is currently in a relationship with rapper A$AP Rocky, with whom she shares children.

Tyla says she felt awkward approaching Rihanna again

Tyla also addressed the now-viral moment from this year’s Met Gala after fans noticed her standing near Rihanna in the background of a clip circulating online.

“I was waiting for my car, and she was right there,” Tyla explained while referencing the photo fans had been discussing online.

The singer admitted she chose not to approach Rihanna because she did not want to interrupt her.

“I didn’t want to go up because I felt like she was busy. You know what I mean. The last time she was busy,” she said.

Tyla added that if they do properly connect in future, she wants the interaction to happen naturally.

“I want it to be calm so we can vibe and talk nicely.”

Social media reacts to Tyla’s honesty

The moment quickly sparked debate online, with fans divided over whether Rihanna intentionally ignored the singer or was simply occupied at the time.

Others praised Tyla for handling the situation honestly and avoiding unnecessary drama.

The exchange also drew attention because Tyla has openly spoken about her admiration for Rihanna in previous interviews, often naming her as one of her inspirations.

Tyla’s global rise continues

Despite the online chatter, Tyla’s international rise continues gaining momentum following the global success of hits like:

• Water
• Truth or Dare
• Jump

The Johannesburg-born singer has rapidly become one of South Africa’s biggest international music exports, regularly appearing at major global events including the Met Gala and international fashion campaigns.

Meanwhile, Rihanna remains one of the world’s most influential entertainment and beauty figures through both her music legacy and the continued success of Fenty Beauty.

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