Rihanna’s name instantly brings to mind a musical powerhouse, a trendsetting fashion icon, and a savvy entrepreneur. Since she burst onto the music scene in the mid-2000s, Rihanna has consistently dominated the charts, won multiple Grammy Awards, and amassed a global fanbase. Beyond her undeniable musical prowess, she has also built a billion-dollar empire with her beauty and lingerie lines.

But amidst all these accomplishments, it’s easy to overlook the fact that Rihanna also has the title “actress” on her resume. Yes, you heard that right—Rihanna is an actor too, and she has taken on some fascinating roles in her acting career. Here’s a rundown of her filmography and the many characters she’s brought to life on the big screen.

Rihanna’s Acting Debut: Bring It On: All or Nothing

Rihanna made her acting debut in the 2006 cheerleading comedy, “Bring It On: All or Nothing.” In this film, she played herself in a cameo appearance, adding a touch of her star power to the movie. Though her role was brief, it marked the beginning of her journey in the acting world.

Battleship

Rihanna’s first significant acting role came in the 2012 science fiction action film “Battleship,” directed by Peter Berg. In this film, she played Petty Officer Cora Raikes, a weapons specialist in the U.S. Navy. Battleship is about a fleet of naval ships that come under attack by a mysterious alien force during a routine naval war game. As Petty Officer Raikes, Rihanna highlighted her ability to handle intense action sequences and military jargon with ease. Her performance received mixed reviews, but it was clear that Rihanna was carving out a space for herself in Hollywood.

This Is the End

In 2013, Rihanna appeared in the apocalyptic comedy “This Is the End,” directed by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg. Playing a fictionalized version of herself, she was one of the many celebrities attending a party at James Franco’s house when the apocalypse struck. The film features a star-studded cast, including Jonah Hill, Emma Watson, and Jay Baruchel, all playing exaggerated versions of themselves. Rihanna’s role was small, but her appearance added an extra layer of humor and star quality to the film.

Home

Rihanna’s first foray into animation came with the 2015 DreamWorks film “Home,” where she voiced the lead character, Tip Tucci. Home is a heartwarming story about an alien named Oh who befriends a young girl named Tip. Together, they embark on a journey to find Tip’s mother and save the planet from an alien invasion. Rihanna’s vocal performance made Tip a relatable and endearing character for audiences of all ages. The film was well-received, highlighting Rihanna’s versatility as an entertainer.

Annie

Although not a leading role, Rihanna’s involvement in the 2014 remake of the classic musical “Annie” is worth mentioning. She played the role of the moon goddess in a fictional movie within the movie. Her cameo was brief but memorable, adding a modern twist to the beloved story of little orphan Annie.

Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets

In 2017, Rihanna took on a more challenging role in this Luc Besson’s science fiction epic. She played Bubble, a shapeshifting entertainer with a tragic backstory. The film follows special operatives Valerian and Laureline as they work to maintain order in the universe. Bubble’s character provided a blend of vulnerability and strength, and Rihanna’s performance was praised for its emotional depth and unique portrayal. This role allowed her to push her boundaries as an actress.

Ocean’s 8

One of Rihanna’s most noted roles came in 2018 with Ocean’s 8, the all-female spin-off of the popular Ocean’s franchise. Directed by Gary Ross, the film features a star-studded cast including Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, and Mindy Kaling. Rihanna played Nine Ball, a tech-savvy hacker. The film revolves around a group of women planning an elaborate robbery at the Met Gala. Rihanna’s portrayal of Nine Ball was cool, confident, and effortlessly stylish, fitting seamlessly into the ensemble cast. Ocean’s 8 was a commercial success and further cemented Rihanna’s status as an actor.

Guava Island

In 2019, Rihanna starred alongside Donald Glover in the musical drama Guava Island. Directed by Hiro Murai, the film tells the story of a musician (Glover) who aims to throw a festival for his island community despite facing opposition from a local factory owner. Rihanna played Kofi, the musician’s girlfriend. Guava Island highlighted Rihanna’s ability to deliver a performance in a more dramatic and intimate setting.

From action-packed roles to heartfelt animated characters, Rihanna has demonstrated a range that many may not have expected. The next time you think of her, remember that although she’s an incredible musician and businesswoman, she’s also a talented actress who has made her mark in Hollywood.