Hollyoaks star Nikki Sanderson has been seen in public for the first time since revealing her exciting pregnancy news, stepping out in Salford this week. The actress, who is 41 years old, appeared positively glowing as she attended the press night opening of the play Murder At Midnight at The Lowry theatre.
A Radiant Appearance
Accompanied by her mother, Nikki showcased her blossoming baby bump in a chic and sophisticated ensemble. She chose a stylish black turtleneck dress that elegantly highlighted her pregnancy, posing happily for photographers outside the venue.
Stylish Maternity Look
The mother-to-be completed her look with a pair of black leather quilted loafers and layered an oversized black coat casually over her shoulders. Her accessories included a delicate silver pendant necklace, and she styled her brunette hair in a voluminous blowout, adding to her radiant appearance.
This public outing follows the couple's joyful announcement several weeks ago that they are expecting their first child together. Nikki and her partner, former Emmerdale actor Anthony Quinlan, also 41, shared the incredible news in a creative and heartwarming way.
Creative Pregnancy Announcement
The actress initially revealed her pregnancy by posting a sweet video on Instagram during the festive season. The clip showed the couple decorating their Christmas tree, with Anthony handing Nikki a gift box. Inside was a special bauble featuring an image of a baby scan, zooming in to share the wonderful news with their followers.
The caption simply read: 'Happy Christmas from the 3 of us', accompanied by a Christmas tree emoji. They also added: 'Baby Quinlan due 2026' with a heart emoji, showing the former Emmerdale star feeling her bump as the couple embraced in a kiss.
Over the Moon
Speaking to The Mirror about their pregnancy journey, Nikki, who left her role as Maxine Minniver on Hollyoaks last April, expressed their delight. She said: 'We're happy to say it's going to be a lovely little spring baby.' The couple are reportedly 'over the moon' with the news, having dated since the start of 2022 after Anthony publicly announced their partnership in April of that year.
Well-Wishes from Famous Friends
Following their announcement, famous friends and former colleagues rushed to share their congratulations and support in the comments section of their social media post.
- Nikki's co-star Helen Flanagan wrote: 'So so happy for you both.'
- Another former colleague, Samia Maxine Longchambon, added: 'SOOO happy for you guys! Cant wait to meet baby.'
- Hollyoaks actress Mandip Gill commented: 'CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!! so happy for you both.'
- Jacob Roberts said: 'Congratulations to you both.'
- Ex On The Beach star Jess Impiazzi said: 'Congratulations guys wonderful news.'
Anthony, who previously starred in Hollyoaks and Emmerdale and now runs an online personal training and supplements business, shared his excitement, saying he 'can't wait till we're a little team of three. I want to shout it from the rooftops!' He had previously confessed to being 'really, really happy' when announcing their relationship.
Nikki's appearance at the theatre not only marks a special moment in her pregnancy journey but also highlights the couple's shared joy as they prepare to welcome their first child in 2026.
