A popular soap couple has shared joyful personal news this Christmas season. Former Coronation Street actress Nikki Sanderson and her actor partner, Anthony Quinlan are expecting their first child together. The announcement came through a heart-warming festive video that quickly drew love from fans and fellow soap stars.
How Nikki Sanderson and Anthony Quinlan Shared the News
The couple revealed the pregnancy through a joint Instagram post. The video showed them decorating a Christmas tree together. The caption read, “Merry Christmas from the 3 of us.” It added, “Baby Quinlan due Spring 2026.”
During the clip, the pair opened a box and revealed a special tree ornament. It featured a scan photo and read: “Baby Quinlan: Arriving 2026.” Nikki wore a red festive dress and proudly showed her baby bump. She and Anthony shared a kiss beside the tree.
Soap Stars React to the Baby Announcement
The announcement drew warm responses from friends and colleagues in the TV industry. Coronation Street actor Jacob Roberts commented, “Congratulations to you both.”
Reality TV star Jess Impiazzi added, “wonderful news.” Fans also flooded the post with congratulatory messages.
Nikki and Anthony’s Relationship Timeline
Nikki Sanderson and Anthony Quinlan began dating in 2022. They made their relationship public in April that year.
They knew each other for years before romance developed. Anthony later spoke about how it began.
He said, “There were rumours we met at the gym, which we had a bit of a laugh about.
‘I slid into the DMs and that was it. I was lucky enough to get a date and the rest is history.’”
Their Careers in British Soaps
Nikki started her soap career on Coronation Street. She played hairdresser Candice Stowe.
She later joined Hollyoaks as Maxine Minniver. In April this year, she chose to leave the show after twelve years to explore new acting roles.
Anthony also built a strong soap career. He played Gilly Roach in Hollyoaks from 2005 to 2011. He later starred as Pete Barton in Emmerdale for seven years before leaving in 2020.
Past Relationships and New Beginnings
Anthony found happiness with Nikki after his previous relationship ended. He earlier dated dancer Dianne Buswell.
Dianne later moved on and is also expecting her first child in 2026.
