Steve McFadden, who plays Phil Mitchell in BBC1 soap EastEnders, has welcomed a baby girl with his girlfriend Karen Cairns, according to reports.
The new arrival is the couple’s first child together and will be a little sister to Steve’s four children from his previous relationships.
A source told The Sun: “Steve and Karen are both over the moon with little Frankie. Her pregnancy did come as a surprise, but now they are both really happy.”
The good news comes only a few weeks after Steve received a long-overdue gong at the British Soap Awards for his portrayal of Walford bad boy Phil.
The 57-year-old, who has starred in the BBC soap for 16 years, received the Outstanding Achievement Award at the annual event. "I don't know what to say because I don't usually get awards,” he admitted on receiving the accolade.
“But I've got one now, so what I will say is thank you, thank you, thank you."
He also paid tribute to his friends, family and Dame Barbara Windsor, who played his on-screen mum Peggy Mitchell, saying: "She's been an absolute pleasure to work with, and a wonderful person and friend in my life. Thank you Barb for everything."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOy3sjxpsUA
Over the years Steve has had his work cut out as Phil’s addictions have seen him hit ‘rock-bottom’ on a regular basis. Most recently, he’s been struggling to cope with the death of Peggy, who took her own life when she was diagnosed with terminal cancer.
His performance saw the soap’s fans take to social media in their droves demanding that the actor deserved an award - if not an Oscar - for his work.
EastEnders continues on Monday, BBC1, 8pm
