Nicole Camille Richie (born September 21, 1981) is an American celebutante, actress, author, and an aspiring singer. The adopted daughter of Lionel Richie, she is known for her role in the reality show The Simple Life and her turbulent personal life.

Nicole Richie was born Nicole Camille Escovedo in Berkeley, California. She is reportedly the biological daughter of percussionist Peter Escovedo III and a black woman identified only as a backstage assistant on Lionel Richie’s 1980 world tour; Escovedo was a member of Richie’s band. Reportedly, Nicole’s mother was never a factor in her life, and Escovedo raised her alone. Escovedo took Nicole to Richie’s shows and recording sessions, and she became something of a mascot for the band. Li