EastEnders James Ferrar is expecting his first child with wife Ali Roff

EastEnders star James Ferrar is set to become a father for the first time.

The actor, who plays Zack Hudson on the soap, revealed he’s expecting his first child with wife Ali Roff as he appeared alongside her in a sweet Instagram snap.

Ali, who cradled her growing bump in a floral dress for the touching image, captioned the post: ‘Mama and Papa.’

James and wellness guru Ali tied the knot in 2017 after over a decade together, and the actor has previously gushed she’s his ‘life partner and life coach all in one.’

In a 2019 Instagram post he offered insight into the early months of their romance, writing: ‘When we first met we were ‘unavailable’. Our interests were football, netball, partying and being rascals. We couldn’t help falling for each other and a lot has happened since. 

‘In our 12 years together Ali has spent time travelling the world educating herself on Eastern and Western philosophy. I spent a year away from London filming a TV show. We moved to Blackheath together and got married. 

‘We founded a successful retreat… Ali had a flourishing career at a big finance investment cooperation but left to pursue her dream – writing.

‘She spent time at @CondeNast before finding her way home, where she sits as Wellness Director of @PsychologiesMagazine – surrounded by equally powerful and inspiring women.

‘Her writing for @oneyearnobeer has just seen her abstain from alcohol for a year – something she made look easy.

‘Our friends and family go to Ali for support and she’ll always make light of the situation having created such balance in her own life.’

James made his debut on EastEnders in March 2021, as Sharon Mitchell’s long lost brother Zack.

His character has since sparked up a romance with Nancy Carter after she made a surprise return to Albert Square this summer.