Diana Ross Cancels High-Profile Royal Caribbean Appearance at Last Minute

Diana Ross has canceled her planned appearance aboard Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas showcase cruise, days before she was scheduled to take part in festivities tied to the new Icon Class ship.

A representative for the 81-year-old singer confirmed the change to People, saying, “Due to unforeseen circumstances, Diana Ross will be unable to appear.”

Royal Caribbean also issued a statement: “We are disappointed that Diana Ross is unable to join us to be the godmother of Star of the Seas. We look forward to announcing our new godmother soon.”

The booking was initially announced in June, when Diana Ross was named the ship’s godmother. At the time, she told People that the honor resonated with her. “I’ve always felt a deep connection to the ocean and the magic it represents — peace, adventure, and awe,” she said, adding that “the family has been invited and all the grandkids. That’s really what this ship is all about: joy and family fun.”

Ross had been slated to help kick off the Star of the Seas’ three-day showcase sailing departing Port Canaveral, near Orlando, on August 20, with a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private destination.

The cancellation follows a busy stretch for Diana Ross, who wrapped a U.K. arena run in July and is set to start the U.S. leg of her Beautiful Love tour on August 16 in Saratoga, California.

Speaking about her current routine, Diana Ross said her focus is “Health and well-being,” noting, “my family is everything to me.” She added, “I like staying busy. Because I love what I do, it keeps me grounded. I’m swimming a lot lately to stay flexible. I must get my sleep which is important to me. I do my best to eat well, but I do like Häagen-Dazs ice cream.”

Star of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s newest ship, promoted as offering “adventures for all ages,” including five signature shows, 40 places to dine and drink, multiple pools, and waterslides.