Lionel Richie Thrilled With Baby But Not With Grandad Tag....

Soul star Lionel Richie has broken his silence about his daughter Nicole's newborn baby, admitting he's struggling with the idea he's a grandfather.The Hello singer released a statement on Tuesday (15Jan08), saying he's "extremely happy and proud" of the new mum and her partner, Joel Madden, who welcomed baby Harlow Winter Kate Madden into the world last week (11Jan08).But he admits, "It may take me a moment to adjust to being called grandad".He added, "Harlow Winter Kate Madden, the newest and most beautiful addition to the Richie clan, is a lucky little girl."She was surrounded by a great deal of love at that hospital as she entered the world. Nicole and Joel are going to be wonderful parents".Meanwhile Good Charlotte rocker Joel Madden has expressed his joy at becoming a father for the first time - insisting his baby daughter looks just like her mother Nicole RICHIE.The socialite gave birth to Harlow Winter Kate Madden at the Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles on Friday (11Jan08).And the new dad, 28, was keen to tell the world about his pride and joy.

He writes on his website, " I am finally home with my beautiful girlfriend and our brand new little daughter. She is 19 inches long and growing everyday already! "We are so blessed to have this beautiful little baby in our lives".

The musician also notes that the baby "looks so much like her mom it's crazy!" Madden goes on to insist that little Harlow - who weighed six pounds seven ounces when she was born - is happy and healthy.

He adds, "She eats like a little maniac and she's really sweet. She barely ever cries, even when daddy is changing her diaper, and believe me I suck when it comes to diapers, but I'm learning! I can't wait to show off some pictures".

The couple have asked fans not to send gifts and cards - urging them instead to make a donation to the Richie-Madden Children's Foundation to help disadvantaged mothers-to-be.

Tagged in