Actress Lily Collins and director Charlie McDowell have welcomed their first child, announcing the joyous news on their social media. The couple introduced their newborn daughter, named Tuve Jane McDowell, who was born via surrogacy.
On January 31, 2025, Collins shared the big news with her fans through an emotional post on Instagram. Accompanying her heartfelt message was the first photo of little Tuve, peacefully sleeping in her crib, wrapped snugly in a cozy blanket. The picture captured the essence of new parenthood, showcasing the love and happiness surrounding their growing family.
"Welcome to the center of our world, Tuve Jane McDowell. Words can never express our endless gratitude to our incredible surrogate and to everyone who has helped us on this path. We love you to the moon and back," Collins wrote, reflecting the overwhelming love the new parents feel for their daughter.
Collins, known for her role in the hit series Emily in Paris, has been vocal about her desire to start a family. This moment is the culmination of her dreams, as she has openly expressed her eagerness about motherhood. Collins and McDowell married on September 4, 2021, after becoming engaged the previous year, marking another significant milestone before embarking on their parenting adventure.
Although the couple kept their pregnancy details private until the announcement, the joyous news was met with some criticism online, particularly surrounding their use of surrogate motherhood. McDowell took to the comments to address the backlash, articulately defending their choice and highlighting the misunderstanding surrounding surrogacy.
"Thank you for all the kind messages and love. We are so grateful and very happy. Regarding the unkind messages about surrogacy and our path to parenthood — it’s okay not to be experts on surrogacy. It’s okay to not know why someone may need to use surrogacy to have children. It’s okay to not know the motives of the surrogate mother, no matter what you assume," he responded, emphasizing the importance of compassion and respect during such personal journeys.
Despite the criticism, many fans rallied to support Collins and McDowell. The couple's announcement reminded viewers about the complex realities surrounding family building, particularly with the emotional and practical decisions some make when starting their families.
Lily Collins is no stranger to personal tribulations — the daughter of singer Phil Collins and his ex-wife Jill Tavelman, she faced her parents' divorce at seven years old and opted to move with her mother to Los Angeles. Overcoming challenges had shaped her, leading her to appreciate the family structure she has now begun to create with McDowell.
Tuves’s arrival marks the beginning of new adventures for Collins and McDowell. This exciting new chapter inspires hopes and dreams, as the couple now embraces the responsibilities and joys of parenthood. With each cuddle and coo from their long-awaited daughter, they are likely to reflect on their unique path to family life.
Both parents echo their sentiment of gratitude not only toward their surrogate but all the support systems surrounding them throughout this life-altering experience. They celebrate Tuve’s entry to their lives, relishing the joys she brings even amid societal scrutiny.
For Collins, this moment fulfills her lifelong wish for family, making her excitement palpable as she shares her beautiful beginnings with the world. With both publicly addressing their admiration for Tuve and introducing her to their followers, it’s clear the couple is ready to step boldly and proudly as parents.