Madonna 'prepared for controversial adoption'

Rex Features

Madonna has reportedly told a friend that she was aware her decision to adopt a second African child would be criticised.

Speaking to The Mirror, filmmaker Ben Fellows revealed that the singer had predicted her attempts to secure a Malawian sister for adopted son David Banda, three, would be controversial.

"She knew exactly what she was walking into. She was well aware that people would start sniping about it. She sent me an email just before she left for Malawi and signed it off 'Let the storm commence!'" he said.

Yesterday, the popstar denied claims that she was using her fame to fast-track the adoption of four-year-old Chifundo 'Mercy' James, insisting that she was "following all required procedures".

Fellows added: "She told me she thought it was very important that David had a sister, she had unconditional love to give another child and was going to jump through hoops to get her.

"Despite her reputation, Madonna is a warm, loving woman. She speaks from the heart."

Earlier this week, a Malawian court ruled that an adoption hearing be delayed until Friday.