Arlene Phillips recently announced the adorable news of a new addition to her family.
The former Strictly judge revealed to fans on her social media that she had become a grandmother for the very first time, following the birth of her daughter's baby girl, Lila.
Shortly after the New Year, she shared the news, saying, "I am so happy to announce the birth of my beautiful granddaughter Lila Primrose Stewart. Words cannot describe the love I am feeling. Thank you to my daughter @alanaroxanne for bringing this joy 💗
A while later, she continued, explaining that she was diving into a role she'd "never played before, the role of grandma", alongside some super-sweet pictures of the newborn baby.
75-year-old Arlene wrote, 'Good morning to 2019. I’m starting with a new role that I’ve never played before, the role of a grandma, and I hope to play it well 💕 I hope this fresh new year brings joy to all. Here goes!!! #NewYearsDay #NewYears2019 #HappyNewYears'.
The choreographer was met with a whole host of congratulatory comments from her famous friends after announcing the news, including Amanda Holden, who said, 'Ohhhh darling. She’s gorgeous'.
Lisa Maxwell also said, 'Congratulation Arlene! Just beautiful. X', while former Strictly professional dancers James and Ola Jordan also sent their best wishes to the new grandma.
The new baby is the first child of Arlene's oldest daughter, Alana, who is a celebrity make-up artist. Arlene has another daughter, Abi, who is 28.
It's without doubt been a big year for Arlene. Not only has she welcomed her first grandchild, but she also made a return to Strictly Come Dancing in 2018 for the first time in nine years, to choreograph a professional dance routine.
However, it seems that her return to the show wasn't an easy decision, given the difficult circumstances in which she left.
Arlene was famously axed from Strictly back in 2009, and shortly afterwards, was replaced by singer and former contestant Alesha Dixon. The decision sparked accusations of ageism at the time.
Speaking about returning to the show last year, Arlene confessed, "I did this because this is where my heart lies. I didn't do this about resolving anything with Strictly.
"Was it hard for me to say yes? I've got to tell you, it was really hard."
