Aussie actress Madeleine West, famed for her portrayal of Dee Bliss, has shared some joyous personal news – she's expecting her seventh child at the age of 45.
The Neighbours legend is gearing up to expand her already impressive clan, which she shares with ex-partner and celebrity chef Shannon Bennett. The proud mum to Phoenix, 19, Hendrix, 16, Xascha, 14, Xanthe, 12, and 10-yea-old twins Xalia and Margaux, took to Instagram to share a charming photo by a river, sporting a navy vest top that perfectly showcased her blossoming bump.
Her caption was playful yet straightforward: "WHOOPS." She continued with infectious enthusiasm: "Thought it was #perimenopause. I thought WRONG!
"It's not too much Christmas pudding either. And I couldn't be happier.
"Not too sure about the title 'Geriatric mum' but here we are, and I'm winding back a little to grow this little surprise package I've dubbed #007 (Baby number 7, couldn't help myself). I don't have much more to say right now, but I've noticed I don't hear much about older parents. Just seems we are invisible."
Keen to connect with her followers and other mums, Madeleine called for stories and advice, especially from those who've been through pregnancy in their 40s or 50s. "I'd love any tips you care to share," she said, looking for insight on how to tackle the overwhelming world of modern baby products, having passed on all her previous baby items, reports OK!.
"Like how the heck do you get all the #baby paraphernalia together again after you've given it all away? There's a terrifying new world of contraptions out there and I don't know where to start! HELP!" To conclude her unexpected announcement, she added the hashtags "#olderandwiser #pregnancy #olderparents #love".
The post triggered a flood of congratulatory messages, with many sharing their own experiences to offer reassurance. One person revealed: "My late mum was 43 when she had me - unheard of in 1974. She was the best mum - she had life experience, she stayed home with me, we used to walk to the shops and see my poppa on the way... Older mums are so special - you'll be fabulous I have no doubt."
Another shared their personal story, stating: "42 almost 43 when I gave birth to my 1st (and only!) Being called geriatric never sat well with me lol They need to come up with a better term! Good luck with it all."
It's worth mentioning that Madeleine's current relationship status is uncertain.
She was previously linked to Maximo Bottaro for over three years, but they haven't been seen together publicly since December 2023. Madeleine split from her former partner Shannon in 2018, ending their 13-year relationship.
Following the breakup, the Neighbours star described how the separation process had "turned love toxic".
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