Matt Edmondson missed presenting Xtra Factor on Saturday night after his wife Bryony went into labour two hours before the live show and three weeks prior to her due date. The presenter, who co-hosts the show with Rylan Clark, shared the wonderful news that he and his wife had welcomed a healthy baby girl, and thanked fans for their messages.
The star hinted that the couple's first child was on the way on Saturday night after tweeting emojis of a baby and flushed face, then confirmed the happy news on Sunday afternoon, writing to his 198k Twitter fans: "Okay, so I was hoping to fly under the radar with this one, but…I've had a baby! A really cute one.
Matt shared the news with fans on Twitter
"We always had a 2 in 7 chance that she'd arrive on a day where there was an Xtra Factor Live… What I didn't expect was for her to hatch her escape plan three weeks early and 2 hours before the live show!
"I am so, so, unbelievably excited about being a Dad and Bryony did the most amazing job ever. We had a very peaceful, beautiful home birth with the help of Neighbourhood Midwives (who are worth their weight in gold – seriously) and we are so happy with our little (very little in fact!) girl. Anyhow, thanks to Rylan for flying solo (and crying at the news in his dressing room when I told him!) and thanks to all of you who sent me such kind messages. You guys are great."
Rylan offered his congratulations to his co-host
Matt's colleagues were quick to offer their congratulations to the new parents, with Rylan writing: "Congrats @MattEdmondson and Bryony so made up for you both! Xxx," while Radio 1 film critic Ali Plumb tweeted: "Happy days! Here's to you all."