Corrie’s Shayne Ward expecting first child with Hollyoaks’ Sophie Austin just four months after confirming their romance
X Factor star turned actor couldn't keep the news to himself at Hamilton Park racecourse last week
CORONATION Street heartthrob SHAYNE WARD is preparing to take on the biggest role of his lifetime – and it’s all happening away from the cobbles.
I can reveal the X Factor winner turned actor, who plays Aidan Connor, is expecting his first baby with real-life soap star girlfriend SOPHIE AUSTIN – just four months after they confirmed their romance.
A source said: “Sophie and Shayne have been keeping the exciting news to themselves to enjoy the moment in private.
“But mum and baby are doing amazing and they’ve started telling their nearest and dearest.
“They were unable to hide their joy at Shayne’s music gig at Glasgow’s Hamilton Park Racecourse on Saturday, chatting about the baby backstage.
“It’s definitely shocked a few people because of how fast it’s happened, but they’re completely in love and are excited about becoming first-time parents.”
Shayne – who bagged Best Newcomer for his role as Aidan at the National Television Awards in January – split from his decade-long girlfriend FAYE MCKEEVER in 2014, ending their year-long engagement.
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Last September, he posted a flirty screen shot of Sophie starring in a sexy scene on Hollyoaks in just her bra, tweeting: “Best start to Hollyoaks I’ve ever witnessed!”
At the time, she was wed to Scottish actor Graeme after six years together, but they split after nine months – and love quickly struck for Sophie and Shayne.
The actress, who quit her role as Lindsey Butterfield in the soap in March, released a statement after the break-up and said: “Very sadly, my husband and I separated a little while ago.
“The breakdown of any long-term relationship is always difficult and this is no exception.”
Due to the sensitive nature of their new beginnings, the two have understandably kept low key with their romance.
They were only pictured together for the first time at the leaving do for his Coronation Street co-star PAULA LANE, who played Kylie Platt, in Manchester on June 18.
Paula, a close friend of Sophie, had even attended the nuptials of Sophie and Graeme , held in her home village of Takeley, Essex, along with stars from the soap world, including GILLIAN TAYLFORTH, CHARLIE CLAPHAM, JENNIFER METCALFE and NIKKI SANDERSON.
That’s more twists and turns than an episode of Corrie and Hollyoaks combined.
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