Emmerdale star Michael Parr and his girlfriend Isabelle Du Plessis have announced they are expecting their first child together.
The couple shared the joyful news on Instagram yesterday with a series of heartwarming photographs showcasing Isabelle's growing baby bump.
The 38-year-old actor, best known for playing Ross Barton in the popular ITV soap, and his partner made the announcement with a sweet caption reading: "In our Mum & Dad Era."
The couple have not yet revealed their baby's due date, simply teasing that their little one is due "soon".
Michael Parr and his girlfriend are preparing to welcome their first child
In the beach photos, Du Plessis showed off her baby bump in a figure-hugging red floral gown paired with white sandals, whilst Parr looked smart in a white shirt and black trousers.
The couple also wrote a touching message in the sand that read: "MJP IDP soon 2B3," highlighting their initials and the fact they will soon be a family of three.
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Michael Parr and Isabelle shared the news on Instagram
The pair looked overjoyed in the images, with Parr placing his hand lovingly on Du Plessis's stomach as they posed together on their beachside getaway.
Parr's Emmerdale co-stars were quick to congratulate the couple on their happy news. Michelle Harwick commented: "Absolutely beautiful," whilst Anthony Quinlan wrote: "Loads of love and congratulations."
Brad Riches added a cheeky comment, saying: "Mum and dad are hella sexy," and Hollyoaks star Roxanne McKee joined in with: "Awwww just GAWJUS!!"
Other colleagues including Jay Kontzle, Jamie Dorrington and Amy Walsh also shared their congratulations. Lewis Cope commented "Love it mate," while Ned Porteous jokingly wrote "Adopt me" on the announcement post. (sic)
Parr has recently returned to Emmerdale after leaving the soap in 2018. He played the role of villain Ross Barton from 2013 until his departure, quickly becoming a fan favourite for his portrayal of the complex-but-charismatic character.
Speaking about his return to the show at the end of 2024, Michael said: "I'm over the moon to be returning to Emmerdale.
Michael Parr recently returned to the ITV soap
ITV
"Ross is a character I'm extremely fond of and I'm excited to explore what he's been up to over the past five years.
"After seeing the scripts, I can't wait for the audience to see what's in store. One thing I can say is Ross's return will no doubt create fireworks."
Parr revealed in October last year that he was in a new relationship but kept Du Plessis's identity private at the time. He told The Mirror: "I'm in a very happy relationship. She's amazing and has been very supportive."
The actor previously dated his Emmerdale co-star Isabelle Hodgins, who plays Victoria Sugden on the soap, but the pair split in 2019.
This baby news comes during a period of significant change for Parr, who admitted he initially struggled with line-learning upon his return to Emmerdale but soon got "back into the swing of it" after his initial anxiety subsided.
