Ricky Martin a father of twin boys

6:44am Thursday 21st August 2008

There will not be much "livin' la vida loca" for Ricky Martin these days - he is now the father of twin boys.

The Latin superstar had the children via a surrogate mother, and the babies were born a few weeks ago, according to a statement from his representatives.

"The children, delivered via gestational surrogacy, are healthy and already under Ricky's full-time care," said the statement.

"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."

A representative said there was no further information on the details of the children's birth.

Martin, 36, is a multi-platinum singer who is best known for English-language hits like She Bangs! and Livin' la Vida Loca.

The Puerto Rican star has been active in charitable efforts, including the prevention of sexual exploitation of children.