The North News
Chandigarh , July 1
Global icon Rihanna is bringing more than just star power to The Smurfs, Paramount Pictures’ vibrant new take on the beloved blue characters. Set to hit Indian theatres in English and Hindi on July 18, the film features Rihanna not only as the voice of Smurfette, but also as a producer and key contributor to the soundtrack.
As part of the film’s ongoing global promotions, Rihanna opened up about the passion and pressure of wearing multiple creative hats.
“Working on this film in so many different roles was every bit as thrilling as it was challenging,” she shared. “It was invigorating to not only embody a character but also bring my musical life into the mix. We collaborated with choreographers and music producers I truly admire. It pushed all of us creatively.”
Having grown up watching The Smurfs in Barbados, Rihanna has a personal connection to the world she now helps shape.
“So many mornings, I’d wake up early just to catch the Smurfs before school. I related to Smurfette — she’s strong, independent, witty, empathetic, and of course, into makeup and hair!” she laughs. “To me, she’s also musical. I think she listens to hip-hop, reggae, Afrobeats, ballads, house — she needs options.”
Rihanna revealed that Smurfette’s voice was inspired by the real women in her life.
“I plucked little things from each of them. They’re all so different in personality and tone, but I carry them with me — and I brought them into Smurfette.”
This fresh take on The Smurfs, directed by Chris Miller (Shrek the Third, The Lego Movie), follows Smurfette on a daring quest to rescue Papa Smurf, leading a brand-new crew into uncharted territory. Packed with laughs, heart, and a touch of music magic, the film also features the voices of James Corden, Dan Levy, Amy Sedaris, and Nick Offerman.
The Smurfs even had its grand world premiere in Brussels, the birthplace of the original characters. The city turned into a blue wonderland as cast and creators — including Rihanna — celebrated the film’s vibrant return to the big screen with fans from around the world.
Get ready to laugh, dance, and go blue when The Smurfs hits Indian cinemas on July 18.
