Nikki Sanderson has officially entered a brand-new chapter — motherhood — as the former Coronation Street star revealed she has given birth to her first child with partner Anthony Quinlan.
The 42-year-old actress shared the heart-melting news on Instagram, confirming their baby boy arrived a few days ahead of schedule, instantly transforming their world.
Posting a sweet first photo of their newborn — whose name remains under wraps — Nikki simply wrote: “Hello world.”
She followed it with an emotional message that captured the moment perfectly: “Happy due date little man. You blessed our lives a few days earlier than expected and filled our world with so much joy. Daddy and Mummy love you so much Son.”
The announcement sent waves across the showbiz world, with famous friends rushing to celebrate the couple’s milestone. Denise Welch led the tributes, writing: “Nikki!!! Omg!! You’re a mummy. We’re so happy for you both xxx.”
Gorka Márquez added: “OMG, BEST NEWS GUYS ❤️❤️,” while Jessica Fox chimed in with: “Massive congratulations! Well done everybody! ❤️.”
Other stars including Helen Skelton and Haiesha Mistry also flooded the post with love, as Nadine Mulkerrin couldn’t help but notice one standout detail — joking: “What a head of hair!!!”
Even Charley Webb joined in, writing: “All that hair! just like Buster was. Welcome to the world little one ♡ ♡ ♡.”
Just weeks before giving birth, Nikki had opened up about the baby’s gender, revealing she had always had a feeling she’d be a “boy mum.” She said she and Anthony never had preferences — only wishing for a healthy baby — but admitted she kept imagining holding a son.
Anthony, meanwhile, was said to be thrilled — joking he’d soon have a “mini Manchester United sidekick.”
The couple, who began dating in 2022 after Anthony boldly slid into Nikki’s DMs, have been inseparable ever since. Speaking previously, he didn’t hold back his admiration, admitting: “I’ve always fancied her… I was lucky enough to get a date and the rest is history. All I can say is I’m really, really happy and she’s a very special girl.”
Now, with their “little team of three” finally complete, the pair are stepping into parenthood — and if their first post is anything to go by, they’re already completely smitten.
