Richie's sweetheart

Showbiz

13:30 01 September 2006

Nicole Richie has a new man - childhood pal Brody Jenner.

The 'Simple Life' star - who broke up with fiancé DJ AM three months ago - was spotted getting cosy with the 'Princes Of Malibu' star at a birthday party for stylist Rachel Zoe at Hollywood's Mr. Chow.

Nicole's adoptive father, singer Lionel Richie - a close friend of Brody's parents, songwriter Linda Thompson and Olympic athlete Bruce Jenner - has confirmed the blossoming romance.

He told People magazine: "I was there when Brody was born!

"They grew up together. To see them together now is like, 'Where are going with this?' But they're having a wonderful time. Brody is a great kid."

Linda is also delighted that her son - who recently split from 'Laguna Beach' star Kristin Cavallari - is dating Nicole.

She gushed: "Nicole is like my godchild. She's a darling girl, very intelligent and very together.

"I think they're very cute together. Will they get married? Who knows? He's young and so is she."

Last week, the happy couple enjoyed a romantic lunch together at Nicole's favourite Hollywood restaurant, La Conversation Café.

A source said: "They are a very normal couple and even though it's relatively new, it seems like they've been together forever.

"They just fit together."

(C) BANG Media International