Diana Ross Canceled A Scheduled Appearance At "The Royal Caribbean's Star of the Seas"

The irrepressible pop legend and dance diva behind decades of evergreen hits, Diana Ross, has unexpectedly cancelled her planned stint as the Godmother for Royal Caribbean's Star of the Seas. The superstar singer was slated to christen the luxury vessel and set it on its way for an inaugural three-day showcase cruise on August 20, but Ross, as well as the cruise line, has confirmed she won't be there.

Scheduled as the Godmother of Star of the Seas in June title, but Ross was planned to lend her beauty to the ship's brilliant launch. Royal Caribbean issued a statement on August 13, expressing sadness at her disappearance. "We are disappointed that Diana Ross is unable to join us to be Godmother of Star of the Seas." The cruise line said, "We look forward to announcing our new Godmother soon." A rep for the 81-year-old artist echoed that sentiment, citing "sudden unforeseen circumstances" as the reason behind Bowie's axed appearance. Details were not released, but the announcement comes just a month after Ross wrapped up an arena tour of the U.K. Her Beautiful Love U.S. tour will begin on August 16, just a few days before the ship's inaugural showcase sailing.

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Being a Godmother mattered more to Ross than anything, just in name only. This past summer, she described the role as massive and said that it carries a great deal of symbolism, representing the blessing of a ship and its journeys. It leaves an enormous gap in what should have been an exquisite and memorable christening. The Star of the Seas, a member of Royal Caribbean's next-generation fleet, will continue to operate as scheduled, but a new Godmother has not yet been announced. There are certain expectations associated with this position, such as presiding over the naming ceremony and offering a ceremonial blessing for safe passage, that have historical roots dating back to the earliest days of maritime navigation.

Fans and those looking to catch a glimpse of Ross will be disappointed that they are unable to do so, but many have expressed support for the star's decision. Fans, however, will still be able to see her play live as her U.S. tour looms on the horizon, ocean not included. Star of the Seas is set to launch without Diana Ross singing, and all attention now diverts to who will have that honour in her absence. The Queen of Motown will be a beacon for ages to come, even when life takes an unexpected turn.