Michelle Keegan and Mark Wright have announced they are expecting their first child together, with a friend appearing to hint at the baby's gender on social media.
The actress and former TOWIE star, both 37, shared their joyous news on Sunday with a stunning beach photograph showing Michelle cradling her growing baby bump.
The couple told their followers that 2025 is set to be an "amazing year" as they prepare to welcome their new arrival.
The announcement comes as Keegan continues to enjoy career success on-screen, having recently starred in the Netflix hit drama Fool Me Once.
The pair, who tied the knot in 2015, had reportedly shared their pregnancy news with immediate family members weeks before making their public announcement.
A close friend of the couple appears to have inadvertently revealed their baby's gender in the comments section of their announcement post.
Mark Wright and Michelle Keegan are expecting their first child
PA
Dylan Hunt, owner of Essex and Mayfair-based Sheesh restaurant and longtime friend of Mark's, made a telling comment about his daughter's future dating prospects.
"Make sure he's good Looking and rich, then I might let him take Gia out," Hunt wrote beneath the pregnancy announcement.
The comment quickly caught the attention of eagle-eyed fans, with one responding: "So it's a boy lol."
The apparent slip-up has led to widespread speculation about the gender of the couple's unborn child, though Mark and Michelle have not yet officially confirmed whether they're expecting a boy or girl.
The couple's announcement was met with an outpouring of joy from family members, with Mark's father expressing his excitement about expanding his role as a grandparent.
Wright's dad, Mark Snr, commented: "4th grandchild incoming and can't wait xxxx."
His sister Jess Wright reshared the baby news post, writing: "Finally, the news is out," accompanied by a red love heart emoji.
Cousin Elliott Wright also joined the celebrations, commenting: "At last! Haha. So happy for you both. Can't wait to meet the baby".
Former TOWIE co-star and Wright's best friend James 'Arg' Argent shared his delight, writing: "I love you and I'm so happy for you both. You're going to be amazing parents. I can't wait to become an uncle."
Sister-in-law Hollie Wright added: "Josh and Dusty can't wait to meet their new cousin."
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Mark Wright and Michelle Keegan tied the knot in 2015
PA
Wright has previously addressed questions about starting a family since marrying Keegan in 2015, at times defending their relationship against claims they didn't spend enough time together.
In 2019, he spoke candidly about family planning on his Heart FM radio show, saying he would "know" when the time was right to become a dad.
He told listeners he wanted to ensure he was "travelled out" before settling down with a baby, adding that while the couple were "excited" about starting a family, he wasn't "quite there yet".
The couple reportedly chose to keep their pregnancy private for some time, wanting to enjoy every moment before sharing their news with the world.
