Rosario Dawson: Rihanna doesn't need to be a role model

Rosario Dawson doesn't believe Rihanna has to be a role model to her fans.

The 'They Die By Dawn' actress considers herself a philanthropist and works with many environmental and ant-abuse charities, such as Save The Children and the National Geographic Society, to try and change the world for the better.

However, she doesn't accept that you have a responsibility to set a good example if you're famous and thinks the scrutiny of Rihanna's behaviour and life choices is completely unfair.

Discussing the R&B superstar, she said: 'I don't think individual women do have a responsibility [to set an example for others]. Often they are working within a certain dynamic. Take Rihanna. To put all that responsibility on one woman is outrageous. I don't think we should engage with that 'should and shouldn't do', 'should and shouldn't wear' and 'should and shouldn't look like'. We don't do that with men.'

Rihanna has been criticised for her overtly-sexual outfits and songs and her decision to reconcile with Chris Brown - who was convicted of assaulting her.

Rosario, 33, insists attitudes to women need to drastically change and she insists sexism exists in all fields, including politics.

Recalling a political event she attended in Washington D.C, the 33-year-old star told Style magazine: '[Some women] were talking about Hilary Clinton's appearance. I have never heard any male in politics talked about that way.

'It is shocking to me that all these smart people, including women who consider themselves feminists, just went into it, like gossips.'