Mark Wright and Michelle Keegan, both 37, delighted fans by announcing their pregnancy, sharing a heartwarming beach photo showcasing Michelle’s baby bump. The couple, who have been married for nine years, chose to reveal the news via Instagram, opting for a serene image of themselves dressed in white against the backdrop of a picturesque beach. The announcement, accompanied by a simple baby emoji, sparked a flurry of congratulatory messages from friends, family, and fans alike. Among the well-wishers was a comment from the official account of Sheesh, a popular Chigwell restaurant frequented by the couple, which playfully hinted at the baby’s gender, fueling speculation among followers.
The Sheesh comment, alluding to the restaurant owner’s daughter, Gia, sparked a flurry of reactions, with some interpreting it as confirmation of a baby boy, while others criticized the remark as shallow. The couple’s joyous news comes just days after a near encounter with Mark’s ex-girlfriend, Lauren Goodger, at the same restaurant during Mark Wright Senior’s birthday celebrations. To avoid any awkward interactions, Mark and Michelle discreetly exited the venue through a fire door, prioritizing their privacy and comfort.
The pregnancy announcement photo, according to sources close to the couple, was taken in Mallorca earlier last month. The Spanish island holds special significance for Mark and Michelle, who own a property there and consider it their second home. They had previously shared photos from a trip to Mallorca in November, hinting at their fondness for the location. The couple reportedly started sharing their pregnancy news with close friends in the autumn, cherishing the special moments privately before the public announcement.
Michelle and Mark have been open about their desire to start a family, and the timing of the pregnancy appears ideal. Both have achieved significant milestones in their respective careers, and their newly completed Essex home provides a perfect setting to welcome their first child. The couple has been spotted out and about in recent weeks, with Michelle often covering her bump with a scarf, maintaining a sense of privacy amidst growing excitement. Their immediate families were privy to the news earlier, further emphasizing the couple’s desire to share the joy with their loved ones.
The pregnancy news has been met with an outpouring of support and well-wishes from friends and colleagues in the entertainment industry. Close friend and Towie star James Argent expressed his joy, while model Kelly Brook and actress Helen Flanagan also extended their congratulations. The announcement has also brought relief to Michelle, who has previously spoken out against the pressure and scrutiny surrounding her family plans. She has criticized the “sexist” nature of such inquiries, emphasizing that the decision to start a family is a personal one and should not be subject to public speculation.
Michelle and Mark’s journey together began backstage at The X Factor in 2011, followed by a first date a year later. They tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony at St Mary’s Church in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, in 2015. Michelle’s acting career has flourished, with notable roles in Coronation Street, Our Girl, Brassic, and Ten Pound Poms. Mark has also enjoyed success, guest-presenting on This Morning and featuring in a TV series documenting his return to football with Crawley Town. The pregnancy marks a new and exciting chapter in their lives, and they are undoubtedly looking forward to embracing parenthood.