“Emily Maynard’s Pregnant Daughter Ricki Slams Baby Daddy Rumors — Reveals Why Her Childhood Best Friend Payton Isn’t the Father After Fans Flood Her With Questions”
Ricki Maynard, the 20-year-old daughter of former Bachelorette star Emily Maynard Johnson and the late Ricky Hendrick, is speaking out for the first time about relentless speculation over the father of her unborn child.
Ever since announcing her pregnancy last month, Ricki has been inundated with fan questions — and now she’s finally putting one persistent rumor to rest.
During a candid Instagram Q&A on September 10, Ricki directly addressed claims that her longtime best friend, Payton Pauls, might be the baby’s father. Her response was loud, clear, and in all caps:
“HE’S NOT THE FATHER OF MY CHILD.”
She later doubled down by sharing a screenshot of another fan asking if Payton was the “baby’s daddy,” writing over the post: “NO HE IS NOT. PLEASE STOP ASKING!”
Ricki explained that while Payton has been one of her closest friends since the third grade, their relationship has never been romantic. “We have very different types,” she clarified, insisting that the friendship is just that — a friendship.
The speculation began after Ricki shared several pregnancy updates on Instagram, including photos with Payton that sparked fan theories. But rather than ignore the chatter, Ricki decided to confront the rumors head-on, protecting both herself and her friend from further gossip.
Emily Maynard, who has openly supported her daughter since the pregnancy news, even weighed in with her trademark humor. When one fan asked how she felt about her daughter having a baby outside of marriage, Emily joked that she was “very against it” — before laughing and showing off baby items she’s already bought for her grandchild.
The lighthearted exchange highlighted the close bond between mother and daughter, even as they navigate the public scrutiny that comes with sharing personal milestones online.
Although Ricki has not yet revealed the identity of her baby’s father, her decision to speak out shows she’s determined to take control of her own story. Fans praised her honesty, with many commenting that she handled the rumors with maturity and strength.
For now, Ricki seems focused on her health, preparing for motherhood, and enjoying the support of her family. By shutting down speculation and setting boundaries with fans, she’s made one thing clear: she’ll share what she wants, when she’s ready — and not a moment sooner.
As one supporter wrote on social media: “She doesn’t owe anyone an explanation — she owes it to herself and her baby to protect her peace.”
