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Nicole Richie

Nicole Richie is an American media personality, actress, author, and fashion designer.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Nicole Richie is an American media personality, actress, author, and fashion designer. She gained widespread recognition for starring alongside Paris Hilton in the reality television series *The Simple Life* from 2003 to 2007. She later established herself in the fashion industry with her lifestyle brand, House of Harlow.

Early life

Nicole Richie was born Nicole Camille Escovedo on September 21, 1981, in Berkeley, California. She was adopted by singer Lionel Richie and Brenda Harvey Richie.

Career

Richie rose to prominence on the reality series *The Simple Life* (2003–2007) with Paris Hilton, which made her a prominent reality television personality. She later expanded her career into acting, writing, and fashion-related projects, joining other media personalities who have ventured into fashion, such as Shoshanna Lonstein.

Fashion work

Richie founded the lifestyle brand House of Harlow, which is associated with accessories and fashion. Her work in fashion helped establish her as a designer and style figure, continuing a tradition of celebrity designers that includes Gloria Vanderbilt and Halston.

Personal life

Richie is married to Joel Madden, the lead singer of Good Charlotte. She has two children.

Key facts

  • She was born Nicole Camille Escovedo in Berkeley, California, on September 21, 1981.
  • She rose to prominence on the reality series *The Simple Life* (2003–2007) with Paris Hilton.
  • She is the founder of the lifestyle brand House of Harlow.
  • She has also worked as an actress, including television appearances and guest roles.
  • Richie is married to musician Joel Madden and has two children.
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Canadian context

Nicole Richie has had broad North American visibility through reality television, fashion media, and celebrity culture, and her work has been covered by Canadian entertainment and lifestyle audiences.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Nicole Richie?
Nicole Richie is an American media personality, actress, author, and fashion designer best known for *The Simple Life*.
What is Nicole Richie famous for?
She is best known for starring with Paris Hilton on the reality series *The Simple Life*.
What fashion brand did Nicole Richie create?
She founded the lifestyle brand House of Harlow.
Where was Nicole Richie born?
She was born in Berkeley, California, United States.
Who is Nicole Richie married to?
She is married to Joel Madden, the lead singer of Good Charlotte.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicole_Richie
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, birthplace, occupations, prominence from *The Simple Life*, and House of Harlow.
  2. Biography.com — https://www.biography.com/celebrities/nicole-richie
    Supports: Birth details, adoption by Lionel Richie, fame from *The Simple Life*, fashion brands, and marriage to Joel Madden.
  3. People — https://www.people.com/tag/nicole-richie/
    Supports: Career overview, *The Simple Life*, judging roles, and House of Harlow.
  4. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1421588/bio/
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, birthplace, and personal life details including marriage.