By The Mail on Sunday | Entertainment & Family Affairs Desk
In a twist no one saw coming, beloved television presenter Declan Donnelly has confirmed he will continue acting as a foster figure to best friend Anthony McPartlin’s second child, following a quiet family arrangement that began earlier this year. But what truly stunned insiders and fans alike was the announcement of strict, highly specific conditions the couple have outlined for this unique joint custody agreement.
👨👨👧 A Bond Beyond Friendship
Following the birth of Ant and Anne-Marie Corbett’s second child, the McPartlins revealed that Dec would once again serve as “designated foster guardian” — a title not legally binding, but symbolically powerful.
“Dec has always been more than a friend. He’s family,” Ant reportedly told close associates.
“We wanted to make that bond official — not just in love, but in responsibility.”
This isn’t the first time Dec has played an intimate role in their family life. He was instrumental during the early months of baby Wilder’s arrival, acting as a part-time carer while Ant returned briefly to work.
📝 The Conditions That Shocked Everyone
However, this time around, Ant and Anne-Marie have reportedly drawn up an unusual joint agreement outlining the circumstances under which Dec could step in for full parental decision-making, should they be unable to.
The surprising conditions include:
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At least 60 days of shared residency per year between Dec and the child, regardless of location
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Mandatory “creative weekends” — Dec is required to expose the child to at least one cultural or theatrical event each month
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A no-television clause after 6pm when under Dec’s care, replaced by storytelling or music
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And, in a humorous touch, the agreement reportedly bans “any Liverpool FC merchandise in the house” (a jab at Dec’s football loyalty to Newcastle)
🤝 A ‘Godfather Plus’ Arrangement
Legal experts have weighed in, describing the setup as a “godparent-meets-modern-foster” arrangement — rooted in trust, but framed with almost ceremonial guidelines.
“It’s unconventional,” said family solicitor Beatrice Langford.
“But in the age of chosen family, it’s a refreshing redefinition of what fatherhood can look like between close friends.”
👶 Public Reactions
Social media erupted with equal parts amusement and awe:
“Dec being a godfather is one thing. A ‘custodial creative parent’ is next level.”
“Ant & Dec raising babies together? My heart can’t handle it.”
📌 What’s Next for the McPartlin-Donnelly Household?
Though Ant and Anne-Marie remain primary caregivers, sources say Dec has already redecorated a nursery wing in his home — complete with a hand-painted mural of the Lake District and a small puppet theatre gifted by Ant.
With baby number two still under a veil of privacy, and speculation growing about their next move, one thing is certain:
In the McPartlin-Donnelly family, love, laughter, and loyalty run deeper than tradition — and sometimes, family is chosen, playbook and all.