(born September 21, 1981) is an American celebutante, actress, author, and an aspiring singer. Her godfather is Michael Jackson.
Was adopted by Lionel Richie and his then-wife Brenda Harvey-Richie in 1990 and renamed Nicole Richie.
Attended the University of Arizona at the same time as professional basketball player Luke Walton, actress Heather Blair and reality TV star Kourtney Kardashian.
She is currently (2004) a member of fledgling rock band "Darling" along with model Josie Maran, and society sisters Soleil Alberti and Sofia Alberti.
Biological father is believed to be Peter Michael Escovedo and a reunion was staged on "The Wayne Brady Show" (2002). But Nicole has stated in interviews that Escovedo is not her birth father.
Attended The Buckley School with her then best friend Paris Hilton.
Was offered and accepted the chance to star in "The Simple Life" (2003) with her pal Paris Hilton after Nicky Hilton turned it down.
Graduated from Montclair College Prep School.