Rumer Willis, the talented actress known for her roles in “Once Upon a Time … in Hollywood” and “Empire,” has recently embarked on a new chapter in her life: motherhood. Together with her boyfriend,
Derek Richard Thomas, Rumer welcomed their daughter, Louetta Isley Thomas Willis, on April 18, 2023. This joyous occasion marks not only a new beginning for the couple but also the first grandchild for Rumer’s famous parents, Bruce Willis and Demi Moore.
The Announcement and Anticipation
Rumer and Derek announced their pregnancy in December 2022, generating excitement among their fans and family.
Two years earlier, Rumer had spoken about her desire to wait for the right partner before starting a family. “It’s important to wait. I think it’s so important not to rush in and have it be about the lust or about, you know, that immediate connection, then building a real foundation,” she said on “The Talk” in November 2020.
Rumer also shared a humorous anecdote about her father, Bruce Willis, who had been eagerly anticipating a grandson.
“Even my dad puts pressure on me. Over quarantine, he was like, ‘So I’d like for you to have a son because I need some male energy in this group.’ It’s a lot of women, obviously. He has five daughters and my mom and my step-mom. There’s just a lot of female energy.”
Who is Derek Richard Thomas?
Derek Richard Thomas, Rumer Willis’ boyfriend, is a multi-talented musician and music producer. Known by his initials DRT, Derek has made a name for himself in the independent music scene. He was the frontman and lead vocalist of the band Vista Kicks, which released four albums and one EP before announcing a hiatus in February 2023.
In addition to his work with Vista Kicks, Derek is also a producer with his own record label, In the DRT Records. His first project as a producer was with the band The Hail Maries, a duo of sisters Victoria and Makayla Wymer. The collaboration was a significant milestone for Derek, who expressed his pride and joy in being part of their journey.
A Musical Connection
Rumer and Derek share a deep connection through their love of music. In May 2022, Rumer joined Derek and The Hail Maries on stage for a live performance in Los Angeles. She sang his song “How Many Years,” and later praised Derek and his bandmates as “the most talented singers and songwriters I have heard in a very long time (maybe ever).”
Derek has also had the opportunity to jam with Rumer’s father, Bruce Willis. In a heartwarming video posted by Bruce’s wife, Emma Heming Willis, Derek and Bruce are seen playing music together, showcasing the bond between them.
Rumer’s sister, Scout Willis, also performed with Derek’s band during their final show at The Fonda Theatre, adding to the family’s musical legacy.
Their Love Story
Despite being together for a relatively short time, Derek has been open about the profound impact Rumer has had on his life. In a heartfelt Instagram post celebrating Rumer’s 34th birthday in August 2022,
Derek wrote, “In the short time we’ve been together you have filled my life with joy and peace. Everything is just so easy with you. We sing, we dance, we play and most of all we laugh. Thank you for being you.”
Rumer reciprocated these feelings in a Valentine’s Day tribute to Derek in February 2023. “I didn’t know that love could feel like this. I have never been so happy in my life. You make everything more fun and goofy and joyful,” she wrote alongside a series of photos of the couple.
Welcoming Their Daughter
On April 18, 2023, Rumer and Derek welcomed their daughter, Louetta Isley Thomas Willis, into the world. The couple shared the joyous news on Instagram, captioning a photo of their newborn, “You are pure magic. You are more than we ever dreamed of.”
The announcement followed a series of beautiful maternity photos shared by Rumer in December 2022, where she showcased her baby bump with Derek by her side. The pregnancy news was met with an outpouring of well-wishes from friends and fans alike, including Paris Hilton, Jenna Dewan, and Lisa Rinna.
Excitement for Parenthood
Rumer and Derek’s excitement about becoming parents was palpable. In a February 2023 episode of the podcast “Bathroom Chronicles,” Rumer discussed her anticipation for motherhood.
“I was talking to my partner the other day and saying, ‘You know, when I go to the farmers market, I call it church because I leave and I feel so excited,'” she said. “And the idea of being able to bring my kids in like a little cart or something brings me so much delight, I can’t even… I can’t wait.”
Rumer has always known she wanted to be a mother. “It was never a question for me that I wanted to be a mom,” she shared. “And that just felt like such a divine purpose and something that when I started thinking about it, felt like such joy.”
Derek also expressed his gratitude and excitement for their journey into parenthood. In a Valentine’s Day post dedicated to Rumer, he wrote,
“Thank you for growing our child from scratch, I have so much reverence and respect for this journey you’re on. We’re on it together, but you’re doing all the heavy lifting and I get to just cheer you on, feed you tacos and appreciate you. I can’t wait to dance around the kitchen with our baby.”
A Grand Celebration
Rumer’s family, including her mother Demi Moore and her sisters Tallulah and Scout, threw an intimate baby shower in March 2023 to celebrate the upcoming arrival of Louetta.
The event was attended by close friends and family, including fellow expectant mothers Peta Murgatroyd and Stephanie Shepherd. Rumer wore a stunning off-the-shoulder gown and posed for photos with her loved ones, although her father Bruce was notably absent from the event.
A New Chapter Begins
The birth of Louetta Isley Thomas Willis marks a new chapter for Rumer Willis and Derek Richard Thomas. As they embark on this journey of parenthood, they are surrounded by the love and support of their family and friends.
Rumer’s parents, Bruce Willis and Demi Moore, are thrilled to welcome their first grandchild, and the entire Willis family is excited to embrace this new addition.
Rumer’s first pregnancy has been a transformative experience. “I have so much reverence and respect for women now. I feel I’ve had an easier time physically than most of my friends,” she said. Despite the challenges, Rumer’s excitement and joy have always prevailed. “It’s the wildest experience, even more so than I ever thought of,” she added.
As Rumer and Derek continue to navigate the joys and challenges of parenthood, their love for each other and their daughter shines brightly. The couple’s journey together is a testament to the power of love, music, and family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Rumer Willis’ husband?
Rumer Willis is not married, but she is in a committed relationship with Derek Richard Thomas, a musician and music producer.
When did Rumer Willis and Derek Richard Thomas have their baby?
Rumer Willis and Derek Richard Thomas welcomed their daughter, Louetta Isley Thomas Willis, on April 18, 2023.
What is Derek Richard Thomas known for?
Derek Richard Thomas is known for his music career, both as a solo artist and as the frontman of the band Vista Kicks. He is also a music producer with his own label, In the DRT Records.
How did Rumer Willis announce her pregnancy?
Rumer Willis announced her pregnancy in December 2022 through a series of black-and-white photos on Instagram, which included images of Derek posing by her baby bump.
How did Rumer Willis and Derek Richard Thomas celebrate the arrival of their daughter?
Rumer Willis and Derek Richard Thomas celebrated the arrival of their daughter, Louetta, with a heartfelt Instagram post, expressing their joy and describing her as “pure magic” and “more than we ever dreamed of.”