Lionel Richie Dating Former Miss Nevada

Lionel Richie is saying "Hello" to a new lady love after falling for the charms of former Miss Nevada, Alicia Jacobs. Yes, another former Miss Nevada, but not Katie Rees who is best known for her raunchy photos that cost her the Miss Nevada crown.

The singer is reportedly madly in love with the TV presenter, who was Richie’s date for his New Year’s Eve concert and celebration at the Venetian resort in Sin City.

According to the National Enquirer, the couple met many years ago when Jacobs interviewed Richie for a local Las Vegas TV network. Both were married at the time.

Richie remained close to Jacobs and contacted her last year after learning she had, like him, divorced her partner.

Jacobs is refusing to reveal too much about her reported romance, but reveals, "Lionel’s a very special guy. He’s one of the most brilliant, kind and intelligent men I know, and he’s funny too."

Who is Alicia Jacobs, and what does she do now? Keep reading…

Alicia Jacobs is a native Las Vegan and UNLV Alum. She also happens to be a former Miss Nevada USA and Miss United States.

Alicia began covering entertainment news in 1993 at Las Vegas’ ABC affiliate. She also has the distinction of being the city’s first on-air entertainment reporter. She has interviewed everyone from Bob Hope to P. Diddy, George Clooney and Nicholas Cage. Alicia was also an entertainment correspondent for Geraldo Rivera’s weekly celebrity news show from 1994 to 1998.

Alicia joined KVBC News in November of 2003. She is featured on the 4 o’clock and 11 o’clock newscasts.

Alicia is also active in the Las Vegas community. She has been a board member for the American Cancer Society, having twice chaired the Great American Smoke Out. She is on the board of directors of the Leid Animal Foundation, and has contributed her likeness and voice to countless campaigns on behalf of the Humane Society of the United States and the ASPCA.

Alicia says, "I am truly passionate about animals. I am grateful for any contribution I can make to their well being in this world."

Alicia’s favorite way to spend her spare time is with her four dogs, Cuddles, Princess, Pearlie-Faye and BoJangles. "They make me smile everyday," says Alicia.