Rocco Ritchie, the 24-year-old son of Madonna and Guy Ritchie, recently made a striking appearance at the “Orizzonti | Rosso” Exhibition Opening Dinner in Rome, showcasing his unique style and artistic flair. His new bright blond hair and relaxed black suit, paired with an open-collared white shirt, helped him stand out at the glamorous event, fully embracing an effortlessly cool vibe.
Far from merely being defined by his famous parents, Rocco has been diligently carving his own path in the art world. He has expressed his disinterest in relying on his family name to gain recognition and has taken intentional steps to establish his identity as an artist. In a conversation for Fantastic Man, Rocco offered his thoughts on the perception of “nepo babies,” asserting that while he acknowledges it can be controversial, he strives to distance himself from that label. He reflected on how historically significant structures were often built by generations within the same family, pointing out that modern expectations of celebrity offspring differ significantly.
Rocco’s early career was marked by anonymity, painting under the alias “Rhed” to cultivate his artistic credibility independent of his lineage. With six exhibitions to his name and notable endorsements from industry leaders, including Giorgio Armani and fashion icons like Stella McCartney, Rocco shed this alias in 2023, showcasing his work under his real name at a London exhibition curated by David Dawson.
Though he briefly studied at Central Saint Martins in London, Rocco found his groove at the Royal Drawing School, where he honed his skills at an intensive level that he described as transformative. His design sense also reflects a blend of comfort and elegance, drawing stylistic inspiration from his father while critiquing current menswear trends. Rocco believes much of contemporary male fashion fails to impress and laments the decline of traditional British tailoring, citing contemporary barriers to its affordability and accessibility.
Despite the privileges of his upbringing, Rocco fondly recalls feeling more aligned with the South Bank skateboarders than the elite social circles often associated with his family, emphasizing the fun and authenticity found in authenticity over ostentation. This sentiment echoes his experience growing up with siblings and highlights the unique journey he has taken while asserting his individuality in a world filled with expectations.
Rocco Ritchie’s story is a testament to the power of pursuing one’s passion, irrespective of origins or family legacies. With his artistic endeavors and distinct personal style, he continues to make a name for himself in the art community while promoting authenticity.