Charlize Theron wanted to adopt for a long time

Charlize Theron

Charlize Theron has been waiting to adopt for a "long time."

The actress revealed yesterday (14.03.12) she has taken on the care of a baby boy named Jackson, and while it came as a surprise to many, a friend claims the adoption process has been going on a long time.

The source told People.com: "She has been trying to adopt a baby for a long time.

"She has been very patient and has a great attitude and is ecstatic about finally becoming a mom."

Few details about little Jackson have been disclosed but an insider told Us Weekly magazine he is African-American and was adopted in the US.

They added: "Charlize always wanted to be a mom. She is glad to be able to do it on her own now - and is so happy to be a mom!"

While the 36-year-old beauty - who has been single since splitting from boyfriend Stuart Townsend in 2010 - is happy to be a single mother, she is getting help raising the youngster from her own mom Gerda.

The source said: "Charlize's mom has been helping out with the baby. She seems so happy and will be a great mom."