It’s a season of joy in the heavy metal world as Richie Faulkner, the celebrated guitarist of Judas Priest, has officially welcomed his second child with longtime fiancée Mariah Lynch, daughter of Dokken’s legendary guitarist George Lynch. The couple shared the…

It’s a season of joy in the heavy metal world as Richie Faulkner, the celebrated guitarist of Judas Priest, has officially welcomed his second child with longtime fiancée Mariah Lynch, daughter of Dokken’s legendary guitarist George Lynch. The couple shared the heartwarming news with fans on social media late Thursday night, posting a tender photo of the newborn’s tiny hand gripping Richie’s finger—accompanied by a message brimming with love, gratitude, and awe.

“Our hearts are so full,” wrote Faulkner on Instagram. “We’re thrilled to announce the arrival of our beautiful baby boy. Everyone is healthy, happy, and resting—and we are just overwhelmed with love once again. Thank you all for your support and kind wishes.”

The announcement has sent waves of celebration across the rock and metal communities, with fellow musicians, fans, and even some classic rock legends taking to the internet to congratulate the happy couple.

A Growing Metal Family

This marks the second child for Faulkner and Lynch, who welcomed their first daughter, Daisy Mae, in July 2020. At the time, Richie expressed how fatherhood had changed his life dramatically, describing Daisy’s birth as “the most powerful, humbling, and beautiful experience of my life.”

Now, five years later, he’s doubling down on the joys of family life—something not often easy to balance amidst a career filled with global tours, loud arenas, and the blazing stage lights of Judas Priest.

Mariah, an accomplished fashion designer and creative entrepreneur in her own right, also shared the joyous news on her profile, captioning a series of black-and-white maternity photos with: “And then there were four. Our hearts doubled in size this week. Welcome to the world, little one.”

Though the couple has not yet revealed the baby’s name, both Richie and Mariah confirmed they’re taking some quiet time to bond with their newborn before making any further public statements.

From the Stage to the Cradle

The timing of the birth comes just weeks after Faulkner wrapped up his final leg of Judas Priest’s 2025 Shield of Pain tour, which included a string of sold-out shows across North America and Europe. Despite the band’s intense schedule, Faulkner made it a point to return home in time for the baby’s arrival.

Known for his virtuosic solos, relentless energy, and smooth integration into the band following the departure of K.K. Downing in 2011, Faulkner has become a fan favorite and a pillar in the modern Judas Priest lineup. His signature Les Paul guitar and charismatic stage presence have reinvigorated the band’s live performances, earning praise from critics and die-hard fans alike.

But behind the riffs and roaring crowds lies a devoted partner and father, one who has repeatedly emphasized how important his family is to him. In a 2023 interview with Kerrang!, Faulkner said, “You’ve got to find that balance. Rock ‘n’ roll is in my blood, but coming home to your family—your child—grounds you in a way nothing else can.”

Metal Royalty Runs in the Blood

What makes this new addition even more exciting is the rock royalty heritage from both parents. Mariah is the daughter of George Lynch, whose incendiary guitar work in Dokken and Lynch Mob helped define the sound of ‘80s hard rock. The birth of their second child marks a continuation of one of metal’s most musically potent bloodlines—something fans are already speculating could lead to a future generation of guitar heroes.

George Lynch himself took to Facebook to express his happiness, writing: “Couldn’t be prouder of Mariah and Richie. A beautiful addition to the family. Welcome, little one—your rock ‘n’ roll destiny is already written.”

Congratulations Pour In

Messages of congratulations have flooded in from the music world, with Rob Halford posting a simple but heartfelt “All the love in the world to you both!” and Zakk Wylde joking, “Let’s start the toddler jam band—Doomsday Diapers coming soon.”

Other metal figures including Ozzy Osbourne, Lzzy Hale, and members of Iron Maiden also extended their well-wishes to the couple.

Looking Ahead

With a second child now part of their lives, Faulkner and Lynch are stepping into a new chapter—one that blends the thunder of the stage with the tenderness of home. As Judas Priest gears up for its future projects and possible 2026 dates, Richie Faulkner is clearly ready to juggle the twin roles of guitar god and proud dad.

From everyone here at Metal Hammer—congratulations, Richie and Mariah! Welcome to the world, little Faulkner. May your lullabies be loud and your dreams electric.