Chinese singer Joker Xue Zhiqian's now a dad

We're not joking, Joker Xue Zhiqian's now a dad.

The Chinese singer-songwriter shared the good news on Thursday (Sept 6) by posting a close-up photo of his family's hands.

He wrote in a Weibo post: "The three of us will depend on each other from now on, no matter how life treats us."

It is unclear if the little bundle of joy is a boy or girl.

Xue also thanked his fans who have continued to support him over the years.

The 35-year-old is one of China's biggest stars with a string of Mandopop hits such as "Actor," "Joker", and "What do you want me to do".

His popularity is also evident as he often appears in Chinese variety shows as a host, guest, or judge.

Xue's love life, however, does not appear to be as smooth-sailing.

In recent years, he was plagued with rumours of infidelity.

He was said to have pursued model Li Yutong while he was still married to Gao Leixin. Xue eventually divorced Gao in 2015 and started dating Li.

Last year, the star was embroiled in another scandal where he was alleged to have forced Li to undergo a late-term abortion.

In another twist, Xue announced on Weibo months later that he had gotten back together with his 32-year-old ex-wife who stuck by him through the bad times.

minlee@sph.com.sg