Beloved R&B singer Mario Dewar Barrett, known professionally as Mario, and his longtime partner Esmeralda Rios have joyously announced the birth of their healthy baby boy, marking a new chapter in the life of the Grammy-nominated artist and his growing family.
Fans around the world have been eagerly awaiting news about the couple’s child after Mario confirmed in August 2025 that he and Rios were expecting their first baby together. The singer took to social media at the time to share the exciting pregnancy news, placing his hand gently on his partner’s baby bump in an Instagram Story and writing, “It’s a whole universe in there! I can’t wait.”
The couple — who have kept much of their personal life private — welcomed their son earlier this month, sharing the happy news in a heartfelt post. Mario expressed gratitude for a smooth delivery and the healthy condition of both mother and baby, while Rios thanked their supporters for love and well wishes.
Mario, 39, first revealed the pregnancy last summer, noting how meaningful the milestone was for him as he prepared for fatherhood. In earlier interviews, he reflected on how seriously he approached the idea of becoming a parent, sharing that he didn’t “take having kids lightly” and wanted to be fully ready for the responsibilities ahead.
Fans and fellow artists alike have flooded social media with congratulations, celebrating the R&B star’s newest and most personal success yet. Mario — best known for hits like “Let Me Love You” and “Just a Friend (2002)” — now has more reasons than ever to sing about love and family.
More details, including the baby’s name and official statements from Mario and Rios are expected to follow as the couple begins this next chapter together.
