Nikki Sanderson and Anthony Quinlan have announced the birth of their first child together, sharing the happy news with fans online.

Sanderson portrayed Maxine Minniver on the Channel 4 drama series from 2012 until 2025, while Quinlan played Gilly Roach between 2005 and 2011. The couple revealed last Christmas Eve that they were expecting a baby.

The actress later confirmed she was carrying a baby boy. On Saturday, Sanderson posted a monochrome photograph of her newborn on Instagram, accompanied by a caption featuring a simple greeting to the world.

In her extended caption, she noted the occasion marked the original due date, adding that her son had arrived a few days ahead of schedule and had already brought tremendous happiness to their lives. She expressed her deep love for her new baby boy alongside his father.

Supporters were quick to leave congratulatory messages in the comments section. Fellow former cast member Gemma Atkinson, who previously appeared as Lisa Hunter, commented on the babys hair and sent her best wishes to the new parents. Her boyfriend and Strictly Come Dancing professional Gorka Marquez also shared his excitement at the announcement.

Coronation Street actress Samia Longchambon posted her own message of congratulations, expressing eagerness to meet the newest arrival.

In an interview with The Closer magazine about expecting a boy, Sanderson explained that she and Quinlan had no strong preference regarding the babys sex, prioritising only the childs health above all else. They were simply delighted regardless. However, she acknowledged having a feeling throughout her pregnancy that she would become a mother to a son, and her relatives had expressed similar thoughts. She had always pictured herself cradling a baby boy when imagining motherhood. Quinlan was reportedly overjoyed at the prospect of having a young companion to support Manchester United alongside him.