Tyra Banks Welcomes Son 'York'

Former supermodel Tyra Banks and Norwegian photographer Erik Asla, have welcomed a son, York Banks Asla, via gestational surrogate, reps have confirmed.

“We are so excited for our new baby boy bundle of joy. The journey to now has not been an easy process, as I’ve shared before. But there was a beautiful bright light at the end of the tunnel for me and his father, Erik,” she tells PEOPLE in an exclusive statement.

Tyra goes on to say,

 “As I gaze into the beautiful eyes of my son, I think about all the people who struggle with fertility or carrying a child and continue to pray for them every day. My hopes and dreams are filled with well wishes that they get to feel what my little treasure, York Banks Asla, feels like in my arms.”

The new mom announced the arrival of her baby boy via Tyra's Instagram, with this photo and caption.

“The best present we worked and prayed so hard for is finally here,” Banks, 42, writes. “He’s got my fingers and big eyes and his daddy Erik’s mouth and chin.”

She also adds, “As we thank the angel of a woman that carried our miracle baby boy for us, we pray for everyone who struggles to reach this joyous milestone. York Banks Asla, welcome to the world.”  

Who's baby York's dad? Well, here's a few facts:

1. He's Norwegian: "He's from Norway -- like Vikings," Tyra told ET in December. 

2. He's a photographer: According to his website, Erik relocated to Los Angeles and "was soon hired as photo assistant to celebrated photographer Herb Ritts." The website goes on to say that Erik has created beautiful images for advertising, commercial and editorial purposes. 

3. He has children from a previous relationship: Erik has two daughters of his own, to whom Tyra has loved playing stepmom. 

4. He's been dating Tyra for quite some time: They've reportedly been together since 2013. 

5. He has a Top Model connection: The couple reportedly met on the set of Norway's Next Top Model, where Asla was a photographer. 

6. His work is in major publications: According to his website, Erik's work has been seen in Allure, Bazaar, Elle, Glamour, GQ Australia, Interview, Marie-Claire, The New York Times Magazine, German Vogue, German Vanity Fair and others.  

7. He's fun: "We balance each other," Tyra told ET in December. "He's creative. I'm creative. We just have fun! He's my best friend."

(source: ET)

ForeverMeah says... Congratulations, u2!