Veteran actor Marlon Brando has been revealed as the unexpected grandfather of wild rocker Courtney Love in a new book.

The DOLL PARTS singer's mother, psychologist LINDA CARROLL, claims she has taken DNA tests to confirm she is the GODFATHER star's daughter.

Love, former wife of Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain, says, "I am incredibly shocked by this news. I have heard Mr Brando has more than 30 children so I can't imagine how many cousins I have."

The link is Linda's mother, novelist PAULA FOX. She met Brando in the 1940's through famed drama teacher STELLA ADLER, and the two enjoyed a brief liaison. However, it is not known whether 79-year-old recluse Brando knows that Linda - who was given up for adoption - was the result of this.

Brando has 11 acknowledged children, although is thought to have many more. Carroll's book in which she makes the revelation, is as yet unreleased.

13/08/2003 01:47