Actress Nikki Sanderson and her partner, fellow soap star Anthony Quinlan, have welcomed their first child, a son named Anthony James Quinlan. The baby was born on April 19, weighing 7lbs 9oz, and the couple say they are “completely obsessed” with him.
Sanderson, 42, explained the name choice: “He’s named after his dad and my brother James. Two very special men. We’re truly blessed.” She described the newborn as “so calm,” which has helped them adjust to parenthood.
The birth was not straightforward. Sanderson was induced at 39 weeks but became hypersensitive to the hormonal gel, leading to 24 hours of non-stop contractions without dilation. Doctors advised an emergency C-section to prevent distress to the baby. “It was never a question in my mind,” Sanderson said. “Do whatever you think is best, so long as the baby comes out and he’s safe.”
Quinlan praised his partner’s strength, adding, “Nik was so tired… there was a concern that if she did go into full-blown labour she wouldn’t have the strength to push through it.” Sanderson credited the Royal Bolton Hospital staff for their support, saying, “Holding little Anthony for the first time, there’s no feeling like it.”
Recovery has been challenging due to the prolonged contractions and C-section. “I’ve been in a lot of pain… but it’s so worth it,” Sanderson said. Quinlan has been caring for both mother and baby, noting, “Nik is so strong-willed. I was catching her doing little things… I tell her to just stop and slow down.”
The couple, together for four years, say they have eased into their new life with minimal fuss, focusing on their son’s wellbeing.
