At a Glance
- Mario Barrett reveals he is a new dad.
- The 39-year-old shares a selfie in scrubs on Instagram Stories.
- He thanks women and announces a healthy baby boy.
- Why it matters: Fans learn about the singer’s growing family and his commitment to parenthood.
Mario Barrett, the R&B star known for the hit “Let Me Love You,” announced on January 26, 2026 that he and his girlfriend, Esmeralda Rios, welcomed their first son. The news came via a selfie in scrubs posted on Instagram Stories, where the singer humorously introduced himself as “Doctor Barrett.”
The Instagram Reveal
Mario’s story was a simple yet heartfelt moment. He posted a selfie wearing scrubs, captioned:
> “Women are God’s greatest creation cuz what I witness today was ONLY GODS work! Healthy baby boy!”
The singer’s use of the word “Doctor” added a playful touch to the announcement. The image showed him with a beaming smile, and the caption highlighted his gratitude toward women.
The Expecting Announcement
Earlier, in late August, Mario had shared a photo of his hand resting on Esmeralda’s baby bump. In the caption, he wrote:
> “It’s a whole universe in there! 🥹 I can’t wait.”
This earlier post set the stage for the January 26 revelation, confirming that the couple had been expecting for several months.
Mario’s Perspective on Parenthood
Mario has spoken publicly about his views on having children. In a 2023 interview with V-103 Atlanta, he explained:
> “I don’t take having kids lightly. Everybody I know has kids. Some of my friends that are younger have kids, some of my friends that are older have kids, and it comes with a lot of pros and cons. And I also grew up without a father. So, I want to do it right when I do do it. You know, I got time. So, I’m not rushing into that.”
These comments reflect his thoughtful approach to parenthood, a sentiment that resonates with fans who follow his journey.
Timeline of Key Moments
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Late August | Mario posts a photo of his hand on Esmeralda’s belly, hinting at pregnancy |
| January 26, 2026 | Mario shares a selfie in scrubs on Instagram Stories, announcing the birth of a healthy baby boy |
| January 27, 2026 | Article published by Marcus L. Bennett for News Of Los Angeles detailing the announcement |
Family and Support
Mario’s announcement was met with congratulations from fans and fellow musicians. Social media users praised his openness about fatherhood and his gratitude toward women. The singer’s supportive stance on family life has become a notable aspect of his public persona.
What Fans Can Expect
While the article does not detail future plans, Mario’s past statements suggest he will balance his music career with his new responsibilities. His previous interview indicated a desire to “do it right,” hinting at a careful approach to parenting.
Key Takeaways
- Mario Barrett has officially become a father.
- He celebrated the moment with a playful Instagram post.
- The announcement followed an earlier pregnancy hint in August.
- Mario’s past comments show he values thoughtful parenthood.
- Fans are excited to see how the singer will incorporate his new role into his life.
Why it matters: The revelation offers insight into Mario’s personal life and underscores his commitment to responsible parenthood, resonating with his audience and adding depth to his public image.
