Hugh Grant has explained why his baby daughter has a Chinese name meaning 'Happy Surprise' - she was an unexpected addition to the movie star's life.

The Four Weddings and a Funeral actor became a first-time father last year after a fleeting affair with Chinese model Tinglan Hong. They welcomed a baby girl called Tabitha, and although they are not a couple, Grant is determined to be a part of his daughter's life.

He has now confirmed his little girl also has a Chinese name, Jingxi, and it reflects her unexpected arrival.

Grant tells talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, "I can't pretend it wasn't a little bit of a surprise but, it's a very nice surprise. In fact, the baby's name in Chinese - because the mother is Chinese - means Happy Surprise."

He adds, "It's surprising that everyone was right all these years. (People were) saying, 'Hugh, why don't you have some children? It changes your life.' And, you're thinking, 'Oh, shut up!' And now that I have (a child), it is life changing. I recommend it. Get some."