It was a moment that melted hearts across the nation. Declan Donnelly was moved to tears when his best friend and long-time TV partner Ant McPartlin revealed that he had named his baby daughter in memory of Dec’s late mother—a tribute that fans have hailed as the ultimate symbol of friendship.
Having been inseparable for over three decades, Ant and Dec are more than just a presenting duo. Their journey from Byker Grove teen actors to primetime titans has been defined by loyalty, trust, and enduring love. But this latest gesture from Ant has taken their bond to a new level.
The emotional announcement came via their joint X account, where Ant explained that he and wife Anne-Marie Corbett chose the name to honour Dec’s beloved mum, who passed away in 2018. “She meant the world to Dec,” Ant wrote, adding that her name “now lives on in our little girl.” A pink flower emoji was all it took to send fans into floods of emotion.
Dec’s response was immediate and raw. “I’m speechless,” he posted. “To have my mam’s name live on this way is the greatest gift. Ant, you’ve made me cry.”
The child’s full name hasn’t been publicly revealed, but sources close to the pair say it directly reflects the name of Dec’s mother, a woman he often described as “the heart of our family.” Ant’s decision has been celebrated online as a touching way to keep her memory alive.
Fans flooded social media with love, launching hashtags like #AntAndDecForever and sharing fan-made tributes, clips, and artwork. “This is what true friendship looks like,” one fan wrote. Another added, “From laughter on TV to moments like this—Ant and Dec are family goals.”
The duo’s bond has been tested over the years, particularly during Ant’s battle with addiction. Dec stood by him throughout, calling him “my brother” in interviews. In return, Ant has now found a way to give back—by carrying a piece of Dec’s heart into the next generation.
Media outlets have called the tribute “heartwarming,” and even critics of the post’s public nature were met with waves of support. “They’ve always been real with their fans,” one fan replied. “This moment proves it once again.”
With their hit shows still topping ratings, Ant and Dec continue to shine on-screen. But it’s moments like these—quiet, powerful, and full of meaning—that remind everyone why they remain the UK’s most cherished duo.
As one fan simply wrote: “This isn’t just friendship. It’s family.”
