When Netflix's "Bling Empire" premiered in January 2021, viewers were divided. One Twitter user called the show a "real-life 'Crazy Rich Asians.'" Another tweeted that it didn't depict a realistic view of the Asian-American experience. Though opinions may differ, there's a guaranteed, high-profile fan whose appreciation influenced a real-life relationship with Kane Lim, one of the show's most eccentric stars.

In an interview with Tatler Asia, Lim was asked when he realized that "Bling Empire" was a hit. He revealed that it was when none other than Rihanna asked him when season two was coming out (Netflix teased the show's second season, which premiered May 13, in a trailer).

"I mean, that is coming from like, like one of my favorite icons and I love her and she's been super nice, super sweet to me," Lim gushed. "And when I got the message I was like, 'Whoa, this cultural icon is asking me when is season two coming out?'"

"From there [after Rihanna asked about season two] we'd DM emojis and fun stuff," he revealed. "She's the sweetest person and when this came about I said, 'You helped me a lot.' This just means so much to me." However, this is not the first time Lim and the artist-turned-beauty entrepreneur have reportedly exchanged pleasantries. According to People, the two "have been direct messaging each other on Instagram for years."