Summary (tl;dr)

Emily Maynard Johnson, former star of "The Bachelorette," has become a grandmother at 39 after her daughter, Ricki Hendrick, welcomed her first child, a baby girl named Romi.

Essential Background

Emily Maynard first gained public recognition through her appearances on reality television, notably as a contestant on "The Bachelor" and later as the lead in "The Bachelorette". Her eldest daughter, Josephine Riddick "Ricki" Hendrick, was born shortly after the tragic death of Emily's then-fiancé, NASCAR driver Ricky Hendrick, in October 2004, and was named in his honor. Ricki has been a part of Emily's public life and reality TV journey since childhood.

The Full Story

On January 23, 2026, 20-year-old Ricki Hendrick announced the birth of her daughter, Romi, through an Instagram post, describing it as the "best day ever." The announcement included black-and-white photos taken in the hospital, one depicting a doctor bringing the newborn to Ricki, and another showing Emily Maynard Johnson, 39, and her husband, Tyler Johnson, meeting their first grandchild. Tyler Johnson also shared photos on Instagram, expressing the profound joy of becoming grandparents.

Why It Matters

This news is trending as it marks a significant and joyful milestone for a family that has been in the public eye for years. Fans of "The Bachelor" franchise and those who have followed Emily Maynard's personal story are celebrating the expansion of her family. The birth of Romi brings a new chapter to the family's narrative, especially given the poignant background of Ricki's birth following the loss of her father.

Geographic Location

• Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, United States (Emily Maynard Johnson's established residence, likely location of family events and interactions surrounding the birth)