Larry Birkhead is a notable American photographer and public figure, widely recognized for his connection to the late model and actress Anna Nicole Smith and his role as the biological father of their daughter, Dannielynn Birkhead. His life story has been marked by his career in photography, his private relationship with Anna Nicole, and the high-profile legal battle that followed her untimely death.
Born in Louisville, Kentucky, in 1973, Larry Birkhead grew up in the city and graduated from Doss High School. He later attended the University of Louisville, where he earned a degree in journalism and communications. His academic background laid the foundation for his career in media and photography.
Larry worked as a freelance celebrity photographer in Los Angeles, capturing red carpet events and gaining access to the entertainment industry through his work. His photography career allowed him to build connections within Hollywood, though he largely remained behind the scenes.
Larry Birkhead met Anna Nicole Smith at the 2004 Kentucky Derby’s Barnstable Brown Gala, an event he regularly attended. Their romantic relationship, which lasted from 2004 to 2006, was kept private during its course. Despite their low-profile relationship, it became a focal point of public interest following Anna Nicole’s death.
After Anna Nicole Smith passed away in February 2007, a legal battle erupted over the custody of her five-month-old daughter, Dannielynn Hope Marshall Stern. Anna Nicole had listed Howard K. Stern, her lawyer and companion, as the father on Dannielynn’s birth certificate. However, Larry Birkhead filed a paternity suit, asserting his claim as the biological father.
In April 2007, DNA testing confirmed Larry Birkhead as Dannielynn’s biological father. Following the results, he was awarded sole custody of his daughter, and her surname was changed to Dannielynn Hope Birkhead. Howard K. Stern did not contest the decision after the DNA results were made public.
Larry Birkhead relocated back to Louisville, Kentucky, where he has raised Dannielynn largely out of the public eye. He has made periodic media appearances, often emphasizing his role as a devoted father. Larry and Dannielynn are known for their annual appearances at the Kentucky Derby, where their coordinated outfits frequently attract public attention.
Larry Birkhead has been featured in numerous television interviews and programs, including *The Oprah Winfrey Show*, *Larry King Live*, *Entertainment Tonight*, and *20/20*. In 2017, he appeared in the Lifetime docuseries *Hopelessly in Love*, which chronicled his relationship with Anna Nicole Smith. He has also participated in documentaries and features exploring Anna Nicole’s life and legacy.
Larry Birkhead’s story is one of resilience and dedication, particularly in the wake of the media frenzy surrounding Anna Nicole Smith’s death and the paternity battle. His commitment to raising Dannielynn in a stable and loving environment has earned him respect and admiration. While he occasionally steps into the spotlight, Larry remains focused on providing a grounded upbringing for his daughter, away from the chaos of celebrity life.
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
Ridiculous History
History is beautiful, brutal and, often, ridiculous. Join Ben Bowlin and Noel Brown as they dive into some of the weirdest stories from across the span of human civilization in Ridiculous History, a podcast by iHeartRadio.