Russell Brand confirms that he is going to be a dad with cute Instagram post

IT'S official, comedian and actor Russell Brand is set to take on an exciting new role as a daddy.

The 41-year-old confirmed the news that he and girlfriend Laura Gallacher are expecting their first child together on social media.

Taking to Instagram, he uploaded a snap showing him looking engrossed in a copy of Dean Beaumont's book, The Expectant Dad's Handbook.

He wrote alongside it: "Right then. My Mum bought me this. Time to get ready!"

Reports originally began to circulate back in May that tum-thing was afoot, although neither Russell or Laura - who is the younger sister of TV presenter Kirsty Gallacher - would comment.

Russell was previously married to popstar Katy Perry.