In a heart-warming real-life storyline that has delighted soap fans across the country, beloved television stars Nikki Sanderson and Anthony Quinlan have announced

they are expecting their first child together. The news marks a joyful new chapter for the couple, whose romance has quietly blossomed away from the spotlight, and now promises

to bring a brand-new arrival to one of British soap’s most admired pairings. The announcement came in classic festive fashion. Taking to Instagram just ahead of Christmas,

Nikki and Anthony shared a beautifully understated yet deeply emotional video. The clip opens on a softly glowing Christmas tree, its lights twinkling against the winter backdrop, before the camera gently settles on a single bauble. Inside it, unmistakable and magical, is a baby scan. The caption read simply and sweetly: “Happy Christmas from the 3 of us,” followed by confirmation that “Baby Quinlan” is due to arrive in 2026. With no dramatic speeches or over-the-top theatrics, the couple let the moment speak for itself — and fans instantly flooded the post with messages of love and congratulations.

Nikki Sanderson and Anthony Quinlan announced their baby news

For Nikki Sanderson, the news represents a deeply personal milestone. The actress, now 41, is best known to millions as feisty Candice Stowe in Coronation Street, a role that made her a household name, before later winning further acclaim as Maxine Minniver in Hollyoaks. Having stepped away from her role last April, Nikki has been embracing a new phase of life — one that now includes motherhood. Speaking exclusively to the Mirror during a glamorous photoshoot, the radiant actress could barely contain her joy. “We’re absolutely over the moon,” she said. “We’re happy to say it’s going to be a lovely little spring baby.” Her excitement was palpable, signalling a future filled with both anticipation and gratitude.

Anthony Quinlan, who has enjoyed memorable stints on Hollyoaks and Emmerdale, was equally emotional about the announcement. Now running a successful online personal training and supplements business, Anthony described the moment as life-changing. “I can’t wait till we’re a little team of three,” he said with unmistakable pride. “I want to shout it from the rooftops.” For fans who have followed his television career, seeing Anthony step into fatherhood feels like a natural evolution — a role he appears more than ready to embrace.

Nikki Sanderson and Anthony shared a sweet video message

The couple’s love story has been quietly unfolding since the beginning of 2022, much to the delight of soap enthusiasts who quickly began rooting for them. Anthony publicly confirmed their relationship in April of that year, openly admitting he was “really, really happy.” The confirmation followed a period of personal change for both stars. Nikki had recently ended a five-year relationship with partner Greg Whitehurst, while Anthony had previously been romantically linked to Strictly Come Dancing professional Dianne Buswell. Rather than rushing into the spotlight, Nikki and Anthony chose to let their relationship grow naturally, away from speculation and headlines.

What makes their story particularly endearing is the strong foundation of friendship that existed long before romance entered the picture. Reflecting on how their relationship began, Anthony once revealed that they had known each other for years. “I’ve always fancied her,” he admitted candidly. “She’s mega hot, right?” But behind the playful honesty was a deeper connection built on mutual respect and shared history. “We’ve known each other for years,” he explained, dispelling rumours that they had met through fitness circles or the gym. “There were rumours we met at the gym, which we had a bit of a laugh about.”

In reality, the modern love story unfolded in a far more relatable way. “I slid into the DMs and that was it,” Anthony said, recalling the moment that sparked everything. “I was lucky enough to get a date and the rest is history.” It’s a refreshingly down-to-earth origin story that has only strengthened fans’ affection for the couple.

Despite their recognisable profiles, Nikki and Anthony have consistently chosen privacy over publicity. While Nikki occasionally shares glimpses of their life together on social media, she has always been careful to protect what matters most. Speaking at the Pride of Manchester awards in May 2022, she addressed her relationship with warmth but restraint. “We are very happy,” she said. “We are quite private, so I won’t talk too much about it, but we are very happy. He’s such a wonderful guy and I’m very lucky.” Her words painted a picture of a relationship grounded not in fame, but in genuine companionship.

Anthony’s influence on Nikki’s life has extended beyond romance. In recent years, she has openly credited him with boosting her confidence and inspiring a newfound commitment to health and fitness. In an interview with Closer magazine, Nikki admitted that staying fit hadn’t always been a priority in her twenties and thirties. That has since changed. “Now I’m training around three times a week, and I can’t get enough of walking,” she explained. “It’s so underrated physically and mentally. I aim for 10,000 steps a day, even if it means walking around my home to get the last few in. Of course, it helps that my partner is very fit.”

As they prepare to welcome their baby in 2026, Nikki and Anthony are stepping into a future filled with new challenges, new joys, and an entirely new role — parenthood. For soap fans who have watched them navigate dramatic storylines on screen, this real-life chapter feels especially poignant. There are no scripts, no retakes, and no cliff-hangers — just the promise of a growing family and a love story entering its most meaningful phase yet.

In a world where celebrity announcements often feel polished and performative, Nikki Sanderson and Anthony Quinlan’s baby news stands out for its sincerity. It’s a reminder that behind the iconic characters and memorable performances are real people experiencing life’s most powerful moments. And as “Baby Quinlan” prepares to make their debut, fans across the soap world will be watching — not for drama this time, but for joy.