Pregnant actress Nikki Sanderson has opened up about the harsh online backlash she faces after announcing her first child at age 41 with partner Anthony Quinlan. The former Coronation Street star shared details of cruel messages from trolls accusing her of selfishness and potential harm to the baby.
Targeting Age and Gender
Sanderson revealed that commenters labeled her decision as selfish due to her age. Anthony Quinlan responded, “Do they not know we are the same age? It’s clearly not selfish for him!”
She highlighted the double standard: “We’re both in our 40s, but it was targeted at me, the female in the dynamic. How can it be selfish for the mother, but not the father?”
Trolls went further, messaging that any issues with the baby would be her fault. Sanderson expressed, “It’s so hurtful. Why would anyone say something like that?” Additional abuse criticized the couple for planning a child without marriage.
Joyful Pregnancy Announcement
The couple first shared the news at Christmas via Instagram, posting a video of their tree with a bauble featuring a baby scan. The caption read: “Happy Christmas from the 3 of us,” followed by “Baby Quinlan due 2026.” Sanderson debuted her bump in a red dress, while Quinlan felt it during an embrace.
Last month, they confirmed a boy through a gender reveal. The pair described themselves as “over the moon” about the spring arrival. Quinlan added, “I can’t wait till we’re a little team of three. I want to shout it from the rooftops!”
Stars Shower Support
Friends flooded the comments with congratulations. Co-star Helen Flanagan wrote: “So so happy for you both ❤️✨.” 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 ❤️.”
Sanderson left her role as Hollyoaks’ Maxine Minniver last April. Quinlan, known from Emmerdale and Hollyoaks, now runs an online personal training and supplements business. The couple began dating in early 2022, with Quinlan publicly confirming their relationship that April, stating he felt “really, really happy.”
