Stephen Mulhern's unexpected baby confession after years of being unlucky in love

Stephen Mulhern has previously spoken candidly about the possibility of fatherhood in his future.

The much-loved television presenter has become a fixture on our screens for years after bursting onto the scene in the 1990s. From appearances on Dancing on Ice and You Bet! to Catchphrase, Stephen has maintained a packed schedule throughout his career.

At present, Stephen fronts ITV's revamped version of the enduring game show Deal or No Deal, stepping into the role previously held by Noel Edmonds in 2023, reports the Mirror.

Yet, despite his fame, Stephen - who is understood to be unattached - typically keeps schtum about his private affairs, especially matters of the heart.

Reports emerged last year suggesting Stephen was romantically linked with fellow ITV personality Josie Gibson. Speculation was fuelled after the duo were spotted holding hands outside a studio during the final recording of Ant and Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway.

The pair looked particularly cosy, sparking whispers of a clandestine relationship. Nevertheless, Josie subsequently dismissed the speculation whilst speaking to OK! Magazine, making it clear that she and Stephen are simply "best friends".

That said, back in 2014, whilst remaining guarded about his private world, Stephen made a surprising revelation about parenthood, confessing he would welcome children of his own but wasn't rushing into anything.

"Do I miss having a partner? Not really, and I think that's because I'm very busy," Stephen told The Mirror at the time. He added: "There's plenty of time for that yet and would I like kids one day? Absolutely. Of course."

Then, alluding to Simon Cowell, who became a father at 54, Stephen said: "Simon is the example of that."

In 2018, Stephen revealed his somewhat "sad" love life. He confessed to Celebs Now: "Last time I went on a date was about four years ago. That makes me sound really sad! I need a life. I need to stop working so much."

However, back in 2008, Stephen was rumoured to be dating EastEnders actress Emma Barton, known for her role as Honey Mitchell on the BBC soap. The duo were reportedly close while performing in a pantomime production of Snow White in Birmingham.

Neither Emma nor Stephen confirmed the rumours, although they were seen together over a span of three years. When their relationship ended, without ever acknowledging that they were a couple, Stephen stated that his time with Emma came to a "natural end".