X17 News

LOS ANGELES, California (X17online) - Ricky Martin is now a father to twins, according to the Associated Press. The Latin singer had the children via a surrogate mother, and the babies were born a few weeks ago.

His publicist released the following statement:

"The children, delivered via gestational surrogacy, are healthy and already under Ricky's full-time care. Ricky is elated to begin this new chapter in his life as a parent and will be spending the remainder of the year out of the public spotlight in order to spend time with his children."

MANHATTAN, New York (X17online) - Ricky Martin was honored by amfAR in New York for his "philanthropic contributions" to AIDS research.

The event, celebrating men's fashion, was Martin's first public appearance since he announced he was gay.

Also in attendance: designer Jean-Paul Gaultier, Cindi Lauper and Kylie Minogue. As for Martin, Minogue says she's happy for him that he's “embracing and living life."

The amfAR event benefits AIDS research programs.

LOS ANGELES, California (X17online) - Ricky Martin and Kristin Chenoweth will be honored at the 22nd annual GLAAD Awards, the organization announced via a press release Wednesday.

The La Vida Loca singer will receive the Vito Russo Award at the New York award ceremony on March 19, and Chenoweth will be given the Vanguard Award at the L.A. event on April 10.

GLAAD said of Martin:

"Ricky coming out was a game changer for many gay and transgender Latino children, who for too long, did not have many out gay people to look up to. Through his music, videos and interviews, Ricky has sent an important message that our community wants the same things all people do: an equal chance to raise our families and take care of our loved ones."

GLADD expressed of Chenoweth:

"When allies like Kristin take such powerful stands against anti-gay sentiments in the media, it sends an important message of equality. It is a privilege to honor such a talented and conscientious advocate for fairness towards the LGBT community."

The GLAAD Media Awards ceremonies will be held in New York on March 19, 2011 at the Marriott Marquis Times Square; in Los Angeles on April 10 at the Westin Bonaventure; and in San Francisco on May 14 at San Francisco Marriott Marquis.