Declan Donnelly, the charismatic half of Ant and Dec, has sent fans into an emotional frenzy with the heartwarming announcement that he and wife Ali Astall are expecting their third child in spring 2026. Shared in a tear-jerking X post on September 1, 2025, Declan Donnelly’s Baby Announcement revealed a moment so adorable it’s being dubbed “the sweetest celebrity news of the year.” The couple’s creative way of telling their 7-year-old daughter Isla about the new sibling—a treasure hunt complete with a heartfelt note and tiny baby shoes—has left fans sobbing and X ablaze, proving that even TV royalty can deliver moments of pure, relatable joy.
The announcement took place at their cozy Chiswick home, where Dec and Ali orchestrated a scavenger hunt for Isla, leading her to a note reading, “You’re going to be a big sister again!” paired with miniature baby sneakers. Isla’s ecstatic reaction, captured in a family photo shared on X, showed her clutching the note with a grin that melted hearts worldwide. “We’re thrilled, and Isla’s already planning adventures for her new sibling!” Dec wrote, per HELLO!. Fans flooded X with love, one tweeting, “Isla’s joy is everything—Dec’s the ultimate dad!” Another gushed, “This treasure hunt is too cute—I’m crying!” The post racked up 1.5 million views within hours, per Digital Spy, outshining even recent Fox News viral moments like Martha MacCallum’s emotional broadcast.
Dec, 49, and Ali, 46, who tied the knot in 2015, are already parents to Isla and 3-year-old Jack. Their third child, expected around April 2026, adds to a family known for its warmth, with Dec’s I’m A Celebrity charm translating into his role as a devoted father. The treasure hunt echoed their 2022 reveal for Jack, when Isla found a “big sister” badge, a detail fans on X called “classic Dec.” The Sun reported speculation about names like “Lily” or “Finn,” while the announcement’s timing, post their 10th anniversary, added to its emotional weight. The moment’s sincerity resonates with the heartfelt authenticity of recent media stories like Bill Hemmer’s on-air proposal.
The couple’s private life, rarely shared, makes this glimpse all the more special. Dec’s busy year, hosting Britain’s Got Talent and gearing up for I’m A Celebrity in Australia, hasn’t dimmed his family focus, with OK! Magazine praising his balance. X fans are buzzing, one posting, “Dec and Ali’s love story is goals—this baby news is pure joy!” With Declan Donnelly’s Baby Announcement trending, join the X celebration and dive into this heartwarming tale. This is the feel-good moment of 2025 that proves family is the ultimate spotlight.
