By The Daily Union | Family & Human Spirit Desk
Television star Declan Donnelly and his wife Ali Astall have quietly and officially adopted two more autistic children, in what is being hailed as one of the most heartfelt and meaningful acts of family devotion seen from a British celebrity couple in recent years.
The deeply personal decision, confirmed through close sources and quietly approved by family courts earlier this spring, has left fans and fellow celebrities across the UK moved to tears.
🧡 A Private Journey of Love and Purpose
According to insiders, the two children — siblings aged 3 and 5 — had been in long-term foster care and are both on the autism spectrum. The Donnellys first met them through a charitable initiative over a year ago and began a series of low-profile visits and bonding sessions late last year.
“Dec and Ali didn’t adopt out of impulse or image,” said a family friend.
“They built a bond, they learned, and they committed for life. This was always about giving the kids the stable, loving home they never had.”
🏠 Home Reimagined for Healing and Support
The couple has reportedly redesigned an entire wing of their £6.5 million family home to accommodate their children’s needs. The updates include:
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A multi-sensory therapy room
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Quiet sleep zones with adaptive lighting and calming technology
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Private outdoor play spaces with safety fencing and trampolines
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A full-time developmental therapist on weekly rotation
In addition, their biological daughter has already begun learning basic Makaton sign language to help communicate with her new siblings.
🗓 Plans Paused, Priorities Set
Declan Donnelly is said to be taking a temporary step back from several upcoming ITV projects to fully focus on the children’s transition and emotional adjustment into their new home. Ali Astall, a former talent manager, has also cleared her professional schedule for the foreseeable future.
“They both agreed — nothing comes before this,” a source close to the couple said.
💬 Public Reaction: “A Real Hero”
Once news of the adoption quietly broke online, fans and media outlets alike responded with an outpouring of love:
“In a world full of performative gestures, this is something real.”
“They’re not just raising a family. They’re changing lives.”
“Dec has always had a good heart — now he’s showing the whole country what love looks like.”
❤️ Final Word
While many celebrities make headlines for extravagant gestures, Declan and Ali Donnelly have made a lasting impact through something far more powerful: silent commitment, lifelong love, and a willingness to embrace the extraordinary path of parenting children with special needs.
They didn’t do it for the spotlight.
They did it because they believe every child deserves a chance — and a family.
And in doing so, they’ve captured the heart of a nation.