Birkhead's 'I Told You So' Moment
April 10, 2007 — -- One of the biggest mysteries in the never-ending Anna Nicole Smith saga has been solved. The DNA test results have been released, and the identity of Smith's 7-month-old daughter, Dannielynn, was revealed: Smith's ex-boyfriend Larry Birkhead is the father.
His reaction at a press conference announcing the news? "I told you so."
The freelance photographer from California emerged from the Bahamian courthouse this afternoon and was greeted by a crowd of tourists, locals and a swarm of television cameras. The throng erupted in cheers when he gave what's become his trademark two thumbs up sign and then raised his hands high over his head.
My baby's going to be coming home pretty soon," he told the crowd.
Birkhead has been treated like a rock star at this pink Bahamian courthouse over the past few months, often playing to the crowd, shaking hands with the trial gawkers and even jumping in the air after the judge ordered the paternity test.
Birkhead seemed ecstatic as he announced the DNA results after the closed hearing.
And then there was another moment of drama. Birkhead hugged the man who had originally been his biggest foe in this custody battle, Howard K. Stern.
Stern, Smith's attorney and companion, was listed as the father on Dannielynn's birth certificate and has been caring for her since Smith died of an accidental overdose in February. Stern appeared grim after today's announcement and has not been shy about expressing how harrowing the entire ordeal has been for him.
Dr. Michael Baird, who analyzed the results of a March 21 DNA test, said a Bahamian judge had accepted his conclusions about the paternity test.
"Essentially, he's the biological father," Dr. Baird said of Birkhead.
Various other men have also claimed to be the child's father: including 59-year-old Prince Frederick von Anhalt, the husband of actress Zsa Zsa Gabor.
It's yet to be determined whether Birkhead will gain custody of the baby, although it does seem likely. Another custody hearing is scheduled for Friday.
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