Nikki Sanderson and Anthony Quinlan have given fans a rare glimpse into their family life, revealing the name of their newborn baby boy with a very special significance. The couple welcomed their first child on April 19, and he has been named Anthony James Quinlan, in honor of both his father and Nikki’s brother James.

Speaking to OK! magazine, Nikki, 42, shared: “He’s named after his dad and my brother James. Two very special men.”

Before his birth, the couple affectionately referred to their son as Mini Quinny, while friends and family have already started using playful nicknames. Anthony, 41, said: “A couple of people call him AJ, some Tony… I used to get called Toe, so he’s little Toe as well. I love the fact that he’s got my name.”

The pair celebrated Nikki’s baby shower at the Barca Bar in Manchester, turning it into a joyful extravaganza with a blue balloon arch, themed cakes, and a dancefloor. The soap star looked radiant in a pale blue dress, while Anthony coordinated in matching hues. During the celebrations, Anthony gifted Nikki a Louis Vuitton handbag, leaving her in happy tears. Nikki shared: “Being surrounded by all my loved ones celebrating our son and his upcoming birth was a dream… I’m so lucky and grateful to have such wonderful people in my life.”

Nikki and Anthony, who have been together since early 2022, publicly announced the birth of Anthony Jr. on Instagram. Sharing a sweet snapshot, they wrote: “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.”

Reflecting on their journey to parenthood, Nikki, who stepped away from her role as Hollyoaks’ Maxine Minniver in April 2025, said: “We’re over the moon. It’s going to be a lovely little spring baby.” Anthony echoed the sentiment: “I’ve always fancied her… I slid into the DMs and that was it. I was lucky enough to get a date and the rest is history. I’m really, really happy.”

The announcement gives fans a heartfelt look into the couple’s personal life, celebrating love, family, and the joy of welcoming a new addition to their growing household.