Declan Donnelly Reveals The Special Name Ant McPartlin Chose For His Second Child – And The Reason Had The Studio In Stitches!

A Double Celebration for Ant and Dec

The Geordie duo, who have been inseparable since meeting as teenagers on the set of Byker Grove in 1989, have a knack for syncing their life milestones. In early May 2025, Ant and Anne-Marie welcomed their daughter, following the birth of their son, Wilder Patrick McPartlin, in May 2024. Days later, Dec and Ali celebrated the arrival of their second son, a brother for Isla, 6, and Jack Anthony Alphonsus, 2. The close timing of the births sparked delight among fans, who jokingly called it “classic Ant and Dec” for their almost comical synchronicity.

While both families have kept many details private, Dec’s announcement about Ant’s daughter’s name stole the spotlight. During a Britain’s Got Talent episode, the duo appeared on stage, each holding their newborns, in a moment that melted hearts across the UK. Dec, ever the storyteller, seized the opportunity to share the name Ant and Anne-Marie chose for their daughter: Daisy Declan McPartlin. The revelation was met with gasps and cheers, but it was Dec’s explanation of the name’s origin that turned the moment into a comedy goldmine.

The Name and the Hilarious Reason Behind It

As the audience settled, Dec, with a mischievous grin, explained that Ant named his daughter Daisy Declan as a playful tribute to their lifelong friendship – and a nod to a bet they made years ago. “Back in our Byker Grove days, we had a daft bet,” Dec recounted, barely containing his laughter. “We said if either of us ever had a daughter, we’d name her after the other one, just to keep the Ant and Dec brand alive forever!” The studio erupted as Ant, feigning embarrassment, admitted, “I didn’t think he’d hold me to it, but Anne-Marie loved the name Daisy, and, well, Dec’s not the worst middle name, is he?”

The lighthearted story didn’t end there. Dec revealed that Anne-Marie chose Daisy because it symbolized “new beginnings and joy,” reflecting their happiness after a challenging journey to parenthood. The middle name Declan, however, was Ant’s way of honoring their 35-year friendship, which has weathered fame, personal struggles, and countless TV triumphs. Dec jokingly added, “I’m just chuffed she’s not called PJ or Duncan!” – a reference to their Byker Grove characters and pop music alias, sending judges Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, and Alesha Dixon into fits of laughter.

The name Daisy Declan McPartlin struck a perfect balance of sentimental and silly, embodying the duo’s ability to blend sincerity with humor. Fans on social media platforms like X went wild, with posts like, “Daisy Declan is the most Ant and Dec name ever! 😂 Love their friendship!” and “Ant naming his daughter after Dec is peak bromance. My heart’s bursting! 💖” The hashtags #DaisyDeclan and #AntAndDecFamily trended for days, reflecting the public’s adoration for the moment.

A Friendship Forged in Time

The naming story underscores the extraordinary bond between Ant and Dec, who have been side by side since they were 13. Their friendship has seen them through pop stardom as PJ & Duncan, hosting iconic shows like I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! and Saturday Night Takeaway, and personal highs and lows. Ant’s battles with addiction and divorce were supported by Dec, who stepped up to host solo when Ant took time for recovery in 2018. Likewise, Ant was Dec’s best man at his 2015 wedding to Ali and again at his 2021 wedding to Anne-Marie, delivering emotional speeches that left guests teary-eyed.

This mutual support extends to their families. Dec named his son Jack Anthony Alphonsus in 2022, with Anthony as a tribute to Ant and Alphonsus honoring Dec’s late father. Ant reciprocated by making Dec the godfather to his son Wilder in 2024 and now naming his daughter after him. These gestures highlight a friendship that transcends their on-screen partnership, resonating deeply with fans who see them as more than just presenters.

Fatherhood and Fame: A New Chapter

Ant and Dec’s latest venture into fatherhood has brought fresh perspectives to their lives. Ant, who became a stepfather to Anne-Marie’s two daughters before welcoming Wilder, has embraced parenting with enthusiasm. In a 2024 interview with The Sun, he described fatherhood as “the best thing I’ve ever done,” despite the sleepless nights. The arrival of Daisy has reportedly strengthened his resolve to prioritize family, with Ant taking paternity leave from BGT’s live shows to be with Anne-Marie and their children.

Dec, a seasoned dad, has also adjusted his priorities. After pausing Saturday Night Takeaway in 2024 to spend time with Isla and Jack, he’s planning a lighter schedule in 2026 to bond with his new son. In their joint book Once Upon a Tyne, Dec wrote, “Becoming a dad has completely transformed me… It opened up a side I didn’t know existed.” The duo’s production company, Mitre Studios, continues to thrive, but they’re now selective about projects, focusing on those that allow family time.

The Studio Moment That Stole the Show

The BGT episode where Dec revealed Daisy’s name was a masterclass in Ant and Dec’s charm. As they bantered about the bet, Simon Cowell chimed in, “I’m just glad you didn’t name her Simon!” prompting more laughter. Amanda Holden called the name “beautifully perfect,” while Alesha Dixon teased, “Daisy Declan’s already got a spot on next year’s BGT!” The audience’s reaction – a mix of cheers, laughter, and a few tears – captured the magic of the moment, which quickly went viral.

Clips of the segment racked up millions of views online, with fans praising the duo’s authenticity. One X user wrote, “Ant and Dec’s friendship is the gift that keeps on giving. Daisy Declan McPartlin is iconic! 😂👶” Another added, “The way they make us laugh and cry in the same breath is why we love them. Congrats, Ant and Anne-Marie!” The moment solidified their status as national treasures, capable of turning a personal milestone into a shared celebration.

A Legacy of Laughter and Love

As Ant and Dec navigate fatherhood, their friendship remains the heart of their appeal. The naming of Daisy Declan McPartlin is more than a funny anecdote; it’s a testament to a bond that has defined their careers and lives. With their families growing and their TV empire as strong as ever, the duo continues to inspire with their humor, humility, and heart.

The studio’s laughter may have faded, but the joy of this moment lingers. Daisy Declan and her yet-to-be-named cousin in the Donnelly household mark the next chapter for Ant and Dec – one filled with nappies, nursery rhymes, and, undoubtedly, more laughs. As fans eagerly await their next TV appearance, one thing is clear: Ant and Dec’s legacy, like their friendship, is built to last.