The 51-year-old actor is said to be "absolutely thrilled" with the baby girl, who was born in October, and although he is not with the mother - who is unknown - he is "beaming" about having a child.

A source told US Magazine: "He`s going to be a great dad! He`s beaming about his daughter. He`s not with the mum anymore but he`s absolutely thrilled."

Hugh - who has previously dated Elizabeth Hurley and Jemima Kahn - was last linked with Chinese actress Tinglan Hong, but is it not known if she is the mother.

He has previously hinted he was ready to have children, saying: "As much as I adore myself, I`m quite keen to find someone else to care about more."

Despite dating `Austin Powers` actress Elizabeth for 13 years until 2000, the pair continue to be close and she recently admitted she considers Hugh to be like "family" and reveals he is great with her son Damian, who he is godfather to.

She said: "Hugh and I met in 1987 on the set on a movie in Madrid and have been best friend ever since. I completely consider him one of my family and love spending time with him, even though we annoy each other at times.

"Damian adores his godfather and Hugh is great with him."
sections: Celebrities