Nicole Richie and Joel Madden are celebrating a huge family milestone. The proud parents were spotted attending their daughter Kate Madden's high school graduation on Wednesday, June 3. The 18-year-old marked the special occasion in a red cap and gown, accessorized with a white lei, while wearing her long dark hair straight for the ceremony.
Photos from the event captured a joyful family celebration. Richie, 44, looked stylish in a cheetah-print dress paired with a black cardigan and wide-brimmed black hat. Meanwhile, Madden, 47, joined his wife and daughter for several family photos, including one sweet moment where Richie appeared to snap a family selfie.
© Nicole RichieThe graduation wasn't just a proud moment for Kate's parents. Her younger brother, Sparrow Madden, 16, was also present to celebrate alongside the family as they gathered to honor the new graduate.
Kate shared her excitement on social media as well. Posting a black-and-white photo with several friends on her Instagram Stories, the teenager kept her caption simple but fitting for the occasion. "✌️ out," she wrote, signaling the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.
The graduation comes just weeks after Kate and Richie enjoyed a rare mother-daughter red carpet appearance together. On May 18, the pair attended the premiere of “Stop! That! Train!” in Los Angeles, where fans couldn't help but notice the striking resemblance between the two.
© Nicole RichieKate showcased her own sense of style in a strapless leather minidress paired with black knee-high boots and understated jewelry. She wore her dark hair down in a sleek, effortless look. Richie complemented her daughter in a navy-and-white polka-dot floor-length dress, complete with a matching headscarf and a white coat draped over her arms.
Earlier this year, Kate also made headlines after fans noticed a subtle but surprising detail about her name. In January, Richie tagged her daughter using the Instagram handle @katemaddennn while celebrating her 18th birthday, prompting questions from followers.
© Kelly BalchRichie later explained that although her daughter's first name is Harlow, she has gone by her middle name, Kate, for most of her life. "She goes by her middle name," Richie revealed, noting that it has always been that way.
Madden offered more insight during an appearance on Bunnie Xo's Dumb Blonde podcast in March. According to the Good Charlotte frontman, Kate decided to make the switch herself when she was very young. "She's been going by her middle name since she was in like, first grade," Madden shared.
© Gilbert FloresHe recalled the moment he realized the change had become official, explaining that a teacher referred to his daughter as Kate during a school event. "She chose it," he said. "She went to school, one day she came home, or we went to the open house night or whatever, and the teacher's like, 'Kate's doing great. She's so nice.'"
Now, with high school officially behind her, Kate is stepping into an exciting new chapter.
