All Creatures Great and Small star welcomes first child ‘earlier than expected’ as they share sweet snap
All Creatures Great and Small star Rachel Shenton has welcomed her first child with husband Chris Overton. The 37-year-old actress gave birth to a baby boy on April 9, 2025.
The couple have named their son Orson Wilde Overton, with the star sharing the joyful news on Instagram with a black-and-white photo of their newborn’s feet.
“On the 09.04.2025 my dream came true… Welcome to the world Orson Wilde Overton…. Our hearts are yours,” the actress wrote in a heartfelt message to her followers.
Their firstborn arrived earlier than expected, requiring the family to stay in the hospital for a period of time.
Shenton expressed her gratitude to the medical team who cared for them during this time.
“The biggest thank you to the brilliant midwives and doctors at Royal Stoke Maternity Unit,” she said.
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“Orson came along earlier than expected…so we needed to stay in hospital for a while and we couldn’t have wished for better care and support.”
The actress did not share specific details about why her son needed extended hospital care; however, despite the early arrival, mother and baby appear to be doing well now.
Shenton and Overton, who are both actors, first met in 2010 and married in 2018 and have achieved international recognition when they won an Oscar for Best Live Action Short Film in 2017.
Their award-winning film, The Silent Child, was written by and starred Shenton, whilst Overton directed the project.
The announcement of Orson’s birth was met with congratulations from celebrity friends.
Actress Emily Atack commented: “Absolutely bloody brilliant news xxx”.
Presenter Kirsty Gallacher added: “I am SO happy for you, over the moon in fact. This is the best news ever. Enjoy the newborn bubble. I’m sending you all so much love.”
Fans of Shenton and her work on the Channel 5 series also shared their congratulations on the birth of her first child.
One penned: “Aw amazing! Congratulations mummy!! You’ll be such a beautiful role model and mamma. Much love.”
Another added: “Congratulations to you both. Now, how did you hide the bump during recent filming?”
“What wonderful news…Congratulations from all at Yockenthwaite Farm,” a third said before a fourth noted: “Congratulations to you both. What exciting adventures ahead!”
Someone else excitedly said: “Big congratulations!! Glad you’re both healthy and happy. I’m sure baby is as gorgeous as momma.” (sic)