Louis Tomlinson never thought he would be a father at 24.

The One Direction heartthrob became a parent when his ex Briana Jungwirth gave birth to baby Freddie in January (16). The former couple are now locked in a bitter custody battle over the tot, but that hasn't stopped Louis enjoying every aspect of parenthood.

Captured on camera having a chat with fellow judge Mel B in between auditions on America's Got Talent this week, Louis said: "I didn't think I'd be having a kid at this age, but it is incredible."

When Mel asked how old he was, Louis replied: "24".

Louis is currently involved in a legal fight with stylist Briana, also 24, over custody of baby Freddie. Last month (Jun16), it was reported that the singer filed a family court case against Briana in a bid to seek joint legal and physical custody of the boy.

Sources told TMZ Louis feels Briana isn't being fair with the time he gets to spend with Freddie - and he wants to be more present in the young lad's life.

Louis, who is reportedly renting a $1 million house for Briana and their son in Calabasas, California, was banned from the pad recently when he went to pick up Freddie with his new love, actress Danielle Campbell.

The tot's mom insisted her pop star ex had to pick up his son from family members, reports British newspaper The Sun.

A family friend told the publication, "Their relationship has hit rock bottom. He is not welcome at Briana or her family's homes any more. Things are strained."

Louis started dating 21-year-old Danielle weeks before Briana gave birth, but the relationship is thought to have caused tension between Louis and the mother of his child.