Eight years after adopting her twin daughters from Malawi, global pop icon Madonna has opened up in a rare and heartfelt update that gives fans a glimpse into the lives of her now 12-year-old daughters, Stella and Estere Ciccone. Known for fiercely guarding her children’s privacy, Madonna’s latest post and accompanying reflections provide a touching narrative of growth, resilience, and the unique bond she shares with her family.
A Journey That Began in Malawi
Madonna adopted Stella and Estere from Malawi in 2017, a country that holds special significance for the singer. The twins were just four years old when they joined Madonna’s family. She had previously adopted three other children from the same country: David Banda in 2006, Mercy James in 2009, and she is also the biological mother of Lourdes Leon and Rocco Ritchie.
At the time, Madonna faced both legal hurdles and public scrutiny for adopting internationally, but she remained steadfast, later founding the charity Raising Malawi, which supports orphans and vulnerable children in the country. Over the years, she has continued her philanthropic work there, including building the Mercy James Centre for Pediatric Surgery and Intensive Care, named after her daughter.
A Rare Glimpse Into Their Lives
In the rare update shared on social media and elaborated on in an exclusive magazine interview, Madonna celebrated how far Stella and Estere have come since their adoption. She posted a series of photos and videos showing the twins dancing, playing piano, and attending events, showcasing not only their talents but also their vibrant personalities.
“They’ve grown into such strong, creative, and compassionate young women,” Madonna wrote. “It’s hard to believe it’s been eight years already. Every day with them is a reminder of why I became a mother again. They are a blessing in my life in ways I could never have imagined.”
Madonna shared that both girls have taken a keen interest in the arts—unsurprising, given their upbringing. Stella has developed a passion for ballet, while Estere has shown a flair for DJing and music production. The update included a short clip of Estere performing a DJ set at a family gathering, which quickly went viral online.
“They each have their own style and voice,” Madonna added. “What’s beautiful is how they support each other while also forging their own paths.”
Life in a Global Family
Raising six children from various backgrounds, Madonna has often described her household as a “mini United Nations.” Balancing discipline with creativity, structure with freedom, she’s credited motherhood with being the most transformative experience of her life. Her children travel extensively with her, and despite their glamorous surroundings, she insists on maintaining a sense of groundedness.
She noted that Stella and Estere, in particular, have brought a renewed sense of joy and perspective into the family dynamic. “They challenge me. They teach me patience. But above all, they remind me every day of the power of love to heal and transform.”
Remembering Their Roots
Madonna emphasized the importance of staying connected to the twins’ cultural heritage. She ensures they remain aware of their Malawian background, making regular trips to the country and participating in cultural festivals. “It’s crucial that they know where they come from,” she said. “Their identity isn’t just shaped by where they are now, but by the strength of their history and the beauty of their origins.”
In 2024, Stella and Estere returned to Malawi with Madonna to help at the hospital she founded. The trip included meetings with local children, volunteering at clinics, and engaging in community outreach. “They were deeply moved,” Madonna recounted. “They saw not only what we’re doing there but what still needs to be done. I’m so proud of how deeply they care.”
A Message of Hope and Resilience
As Madonna approaches her fifth decade in the spotlight, she continues to redefine what it means to be an artist, an activist, and a mother. This recent update about Stella and Estere is more than a celebrity parent showing off her children—it is a celebration of adoption, of international family-building, and of what it means to grow through love and shared purpose.
She ended her post with a message that resonated with many: “Family isn’t just about blood. It’s about who shows up for you, who nurtures you, who helps you become the best version of yourself. Stella and Estere remind me of that every day.”
As Stella and Estere enter their teenage years, fans can expect Madonna to continue protecting their privacy while occasionally offering glimpses into their inspiring journey. If her latest update is any indication, their story is only just beginning—and it’s already a powerful testament to resilience, creativity, and above all, love.
