Larry Birkhead, the former partner of the late Anna Nicole Smith, has revealed that their daughter Dannielynn faces 'pressure' to follow in her mother's footsteps. The 53-year-old photographer attended the Kentucky Derby with his 19-year-old daughter over the weekend and discussed the topic during an interview with People at the Barnstable Brown Gala on Friday.
Dannielynn's College Achievements
Birkhead spoke proudly of Dannielynn's academic accomplishments, noting that she achieved good grades in her first semester of college. He expressed his support for whatever career path she chooses, stating, 'I'm excited for her to just follow any path that she wants.' He acknowledged that many people want her to emulate her mother's modeling and acting career, but Dannielynn is currently focused on forensic science and criminal studies.
A Supportive Father
'I'm all about whatever she wants,' Birkhead added. Dannielynn herself shared that she is majoring in forensic science and considering a double major in culinary arts because she loves baking. She also said that being compared to her mother makes her feel good, as she loves her mom.
Anna Nicole Smith's Legacy
Anna Nicole Smith passed away at age 39 in February 2007 due to an accidental drug overdose. She was a renowned model and actress, appearing in Playboy Magazine as Playmate of the Year in 1993, and collaborating with brands like Guess and H&M. She also starred in films such as Naked Gun 33 1/3: The Final Insult (1994) and To The Limit (1995). Dannielynn was born in September 2006, less than a year before her mother's death.
Red Carpet Appearances
At the Barnstable Brown Gala, Dannielynn debuted a new edgy look with a short pixie cut and a black strapless gown from Punk Rave. Birkhead shared photos on Instagram, captioning them, 'Dannielynn is rocking a fresh cut and goth-rock style.' He noted that she is 'coming into her own' and experimenting with her style, moving away from always wearing her mother's clothes.
Last year, Dannielynn paid homage to her mother by wearing a halter-style black gown that Smith had worn to the same gala 21 years earlier. Birkhead described the moment as 'full circle.' The pair have a history of attending the Kentucky Derby together.
Family Background
After Smith's death, several individuals claimed to be Dannielynn's father, but DNA tests confirmed Birkhead as the biological father. Smith also had a son, Daniel, who passed away at age 20 in September 2006 due to an accidental drug overdose, just days after Dannielynn's birth.
On Saturday, Birkhead and Dannielynn attended the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, wearing coordinated outfits. Dannielynn donned a black strapless dress with white floral embellishments and a matching hat, while Birkhead wore a sleek white suit.
