Ant and Dec, 50, Voice Their Regrets That They Didn’t Become Dads Sooner in Rare Comments About Fatherhood

Ant and Dec, the iconic British television presenting duo, have recently opened up about their experiences with fatherhood in a way fans rarely get to hear. Both aged 50, Anthony McPartlin and Declan Donnelly have expressed heartfelt regrets about not becoming dads earlier in life. Known for their infectious humor and on-screen chemistry, the pair revealed that fatherhood has become their biggest personal achievement and something they deeply cherish. In this article, we explore their candid reflections on parenting, their family lives, and why they wish they had embraced fatherhood sooner.

Ant and Dec on Fatherhood: A Life-Changing Journey

Fatherhood has transformed the lives of Ant and Dec in profound ways. Ant McPartlin welcomed his first child, a son named Wilder, with his wife Anne-Marie Corbett in May 2024. In addition to being a new dad, Ant is also a stepfather to Anne-Marie’s two teenage daughters, embracing the role with warmth and dedication. Declan Donnelly, meanwhile, is a proud father of two young children: daughter Isla, aged seven, and son Jack, aged three, with his wife Ali Astall.

Despite their busy careers and public lives, both men have emphasized that becoming fathers has been the most rewarding and fulfilling experience they have ever had. During a recent episode of their podcast, *Hanging Out With Ant & Dec*, the duo discussed their parenting journeys and shared some surprising admissions about their feelings toward fatherhood.

Declan Donnelly expressed his enthusiasm for being a dad with heartfelt sincerity. When asked about his experience, he said, “It’s the best thing ever. I wish I’d done it earlier and I wish I’d had ten,” before laughing and adding, “Maybe not ten. Maybe three.” Ant McPartlin agreed wholeheartedly, revealing, “I’ve got three and I’d have more.” These comments highlight how much both men value their roles as fathers and how they wish they had started their families sooner.

The Impact of Fatherhood on Their Lives and Careers

Ant and Dec’s reflections on fatherhood also shed light on how becoming dads has influenced their perspectives on life and work. Both have spoken about how parenthood has brought new priorities and a deeper sense of responsibility. Their children have become a central focus, inspiring them to balance their demanding careers with family time.

The duo’s openness about their regrets regarding the timing of fatherhood is particularly striking given their public personas. Known for their lighthearted banter and entertainment, these rare, sincere comments reveal a more personal side to the beloved presenters. They acknowledge that while their careers have been incredibly successful, the joy and fulfillment they find in being fathers surpass all else.

Moreover, Ant and Dec’s experiences resonate with many parents who may feel they started their families later than they wished. Their honesty encourages conversations about the challenges and rewards of parenthood at different stages of life, breaking down stigmas around age and family planning.

Why Ant and Dec Wish They Had Become Fathers Sooner

The regrets voiced by Ant and Dec about not becoming fathers earlier stem from the immense joy and meaning they have found in parenting. Both men have indicated that fatherhood has enriched their lives in ways they hadn’t fully anticipated. Their comments suggest that starting a family sooner could have allowed them to experience these rewards for a longer time.

Declan’s playful wish for “ten” children, tempered by a realistic “maybe three,” reflects a deep affection for parenting and a desire to expand his family. Ant’s statement about wanting more than three children further emphasizes how much he values fatherhood. These sentiments underline a shared belief that raising children is a profound and life-affirming journey.

Their reflections also highlight the importance of embracing parenthood when the time feels right, but also recognizing that it’s never too late to start. Ant and Dec’s stories serve as a reminder that fatherhood can bring immense happiness regardless of when it begins.

Conclusion

Ant and Dec’s rare and heartfelt comments about fatherhood reveal just how much they treasure their roles as dads and how they wish they had embraced this chapter of life sooner. Their experiences remind us that becoming a parent is one of life’s greatest achievements, bringing joy, growth, and new perspectives. Whether you’re a new parent or considering starting a family, their reflections offer inspiration and reassurance that the rewards of fatherhood are truly priceless.

If you enjoyed learning about Ant and Dec’s journey into fatherhood, be sure to follow their podcast *Hanging Out With Ant & Dec* for more personal insights and stories. Don’t miss out on updates from your favorite duo—subscribe today and stay connected!