Dannielynn Birkhead Teases 2026 Kentucky Derby Party May Be Her Last

Dannielynn Birkhead may be stepping away from the spotlight.

Dannielynn Birkhead, the daughter of Larry Birkhead and the late Anna Nicole Smith, has made an annual tradition of attending the Kentucky Derby with her father. However, they’ve suggested this might be changing and they may no longer continue the yearly appearances.

Larry recently told Access Hollywood that his daughter is nearly 20 and feels she has friends who are a better fit for her. He explained that their tradition of creating photo books together may be coming to an end. He’s unsure if they’ll continue the tradition, but feels they’ve created something amazing together, regardless. He said, ‘If we don’t come back [to doing this], we’ve had one incredible scrapbook.’

Oh my gosh, Dannielynn, she’s only 19 and already a college freshman studying forensics – so smart! – and she was saying it’s totally possible she might not go to the Derby anymore. I’m devastated just thinking about it, but she has her own life and studies now, I guess. It’s just… the Derby won’t be the same without her!

She said she’s thinking about taking a break to prioritize school and figure out her career path. She also wants to spend more time with her friends and family.

I really appreciate all the chances I’ve been given, and it’s been lovely talking with you and swapping stories,” she said. “But honestly, I’m the kind of person who prefers to stay home and relax under a blanket.

Larry, 53, mentioned that his daughter’s exams will likely conflict with the Derby for the next few years.

Looking back, I think we really accomplished a lot and had fun doing it,” he said. “I wouldn’t rule anything out for the future, but right now, we’ve run out of resources and fresh concepts.

Oh my gosh, you won’t BELIEVE why Larry and his daughter are always at the Kentucky Derby! He told me himself – he first met Anna Nicole at the Barnstable Brown Gala, which is this amazing charity event they have every Derby weekend. It’s like, the most romantic thing ever, because that’s where their story began! I just melt every time I think about it.

He explained that promising the media yearly access to Dannielynn eliminated the competitive effort they might have made to photograph her as she grew up.

Visibly moved, he explained, “This is for a wonderful cause, but it also helps me remember and honor Anna, keeping her spirit with me.”

At this year’s Kentucky Derby, Dannielynn showed off a striking new haircut – a short, silver and brown pixie cut. She wanted the look to show everyone that she’s developing her own style and isn’t simply a copy of her mother.

She expressed her love for her mother, calling her beautiful, but also emphasized her independence and hoped people understood that side of her now.

And that’s a statement that Larry fully supported.

He said he’s constantly impressed by her, whether it’s through her actions or words, and he appreciates that she’s comfortable being herself and expressing her unique personality.

Keep reading for more stars who stepped out for the 2026 Kentucky Derby…