Mae Whitman Welcomes First Baby and Shares His Special Name

The newborn's name pays homage to her former 'Parenthood' co-star and best friend.

Fact checked by Sari HitchinsFact checked by Sari Hitchins

Actress Mae Whitman announced the birth of her first child and revealed a sweet reason for the baby name choice.

“Not to be a Bieber about it but I too just gave birth to our son, Miles,” she shares on Instagram, along with a photo of the newborn’s feet. “From the moment we heard the first tiny sound out of his tiny piggy mouth we were besotted. He is the kindest, gentlest, smartest, funniest little beebee and he’s our best friend (pretty much exactly like his namesake Uncle Miles @younggoth).”

The Instagram account she links to is actor Miles Heizer, who played her brother on the show Parenthood. The drama series aired on NBC for six seasons from 2010 to 2015.

She went on to write, "We are infinitely grateful he chose us as his parents." She also thanked her medical team, which includes board-certified OB-GYN Bente Kaiser, doula Caryn Fields, Moxie Birth, and Huntington Hospital, as well as the support they’ve received along the way from her inner circle. “We love you! We’re so happy!” she adds.

Along with being a sweet tribute to her former co-star, the name Miles has been popular for decades. Here are the baby name details:

Miles

• Origin: English

• Meaning: Soldier or merciful, according to Nameberry.com

• Similar Names and Variations: Myles, Milo, Mylo

• Famous Namesakes: Some famous faces with this name include late musician Miles Davis, former football player/current coach Miles Austin, and actor Miles Teller.

• Peak Popularity: The name has appeared on the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) top 1,000 baby boy names list every year since 1900. It was the 280th most popular name at the time but has become even more common in recent years. It was the 43rd most popular name in 2023.

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