Laura Linney pulled off two things you rarely see in normal life – let alone in the overexposed world of celebrities. After four years as the funny and inspiring mom facing cancer of Showtime’s original series, The Big C, an unexpected plot twist entered her personal life. At the age of 49, Laura Linney became a real mother for the first time and no one knew it was happening.

Celebrity Mothers are Getting Older

In an age where many celebrities turn to surrogacy or adoption to expand their families, Linney pulled off something that is becoming kind of a trend in Hollywood. The chance of giving birth naturally without reproductive assistance over the age of 45 is only 10 percent, according to Dr. Marjorie Greenfield, director of general obstetrics and gynecology at University Hospitals Case Medical Center.

For the Hollywood sect, though, late in life kids are on the rise. Laura joins an elite list of celebs with baby bumps after they turn 40. Salma Hayek gave birth at the age of 41, Kelly Preston 48 and Halle Berry at 47.

Mum’s the Word for Laura Linney

What makes the Laura Linney story even more unusual, however, is the surprise factor. She dropped out of sight, so fans and the media were unaware that she and husband Marc Schauer were expecting.

The two managed to keep out of the news for the entire pregnancy, giving fans a nice surprise instead of boring them with constant updates.

The last photograph of Laura was taken in June of 2013. She appeared flawless, as usual, in a figure-hiding jumper, giving those on Hollywood bump watch no reason to speculate.

She ducked out of the limelight right around the time people would start asking questions. In September, she took home an Emmy, but was nowhere to be found during the ceremony. Presenter Matt Damon even joked about her no-show. “Laura couldn’t be here tonight. She’s such a great actress that she didn’t even need to show up.”

The couple broke the happy news after the baby was born, announcing they had welcomed Bennett Armistead Schauer into the world on January 8th. The baby is healthy and the family is home getting to know one another.

Late in Life Births

So, how big of a deal is it that Linney was able to give birth just shy of her 50th birthday? ABC News medical contributor Dr. Jennifer Ashton points out it kind of goes against nature’s natural plan. The human body prepares to reproduce in the twenties. Linney proved that exceptions are possible, however.

A woman who is healthy and in good physical shape can manage a successful pregnancy and expect a very healthy child at a time when most are welcoming their grandchildren.

After multiple Oscar and Tony nominations plus two Golden Globes and four Emmys wins, motherhood may prove to be her most challenging role yet. Reports state the happy couple is at home enjoying their new healthy baby boy.