British actor Hugh Grant "delighted" to become first time father

Nov 2, 2011, 10:57 GMT

London - British actor Hugh Grant, who starred in Notting Hill and Four Weddings and a Funeral, has become the father of a baby girl following a 'fleeting affair,' his agent said in London Wednesday.

Although the identity of the mother of the child is officially kept secret, British media reports named her as Chinese actress Tinglan Hong, to whom 51-year-old Grant had been 'romantically linked' earlier this year.

The pregnancy was not planned but Grant is said to be thrilled and was on 'friendly terms' with the baby's mother, his publicist said.

'I can confirm that Hugh Grant is the delighted father of a baby girl. He and the mother had a fleeting affair and, while this was not planned, Hugh could not be happier or more supportive. He and the mother have discussed everything and are on very friendly terms.'

The baby, whose name has not yet been revealed, was born at London's private Portland clinic by Caesarean section on September 26.

Grant has had high-profile relationships in the past, dating British actress Elizabeth (Liz) Hurley for 13 years and going out with Jemima Khan, the ex-wife of formed Pakistan cricket captain come politician Imran Khan.

In 1995, Grant was engulfed in a scandal surrounding his encounter with a Hollywood prostitute.

His film credits also include About A Boy and Love Actually.

Grant is due to appear alongside Hollywood stars Tom Hanks and Halle Berry in a big-screen adaptation of David Mitchell's novel Cloud Atlas next year.