EastEnders icon Michael Greco has welcomed a baby boy and gave a nod to his soap days by revealing his name.

The actor, 53, became a dad again as his partner Helen Harris gave birth to their little boy. He announced the couple were expecting their second child at the end of last year. Today, Michael updated fans to announce their new bundle of joy had arrived. The former Beppe Di Marco star said he was “truly grateful” to have another child.

Michael shared adorable snaps of his baby as he said: “I am truly grateful to be gifted another beautiful, baby boy. The value of life in today’s world, becomes more and more precious, day by day. The joys of being a father has made me the man I have become. Nothing in this world is more important than our health and happiness and today I am the happiest man alive. I have another angel at my side.”

He also addressed his two-year-old son, Gianluca, as Michael added: “You have a gorgeous baby brother. Welcome to the world baby Gianni. I love you.” Fans noticed the name for Michael’s newborn gave a nod to his time on EastEnders. Michael played Beppe from 1998 until 2002. The police officer turned cab driver had a brother called Gianni – the same name he has given to his son.

Michael announced he has welcomed son Gianni with partner Helen (Image:

@thegrecs/Instagram)

The couple were already proud parents to Gianluca (Image:

Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

Fans congratulated the actor on his new arrival as one said: “Congratulations to all, he’s beautiful.” Another added: “Congrats to you both! He is absolutely gorgeous.” Brian McFadden commented: “Delighted for you bro xx.” Max Bowden wrote: “Congratulations mate!” Actress Dawn Steele gushed: “Oh my goodness! Congratulations to you all- love his name too.” A fan joked: “Gianni di marco?!”

Back in December, Michael shared a scan photo of his baby. He told his followers: “Absolutely over the moon to announce another Baby Greco is on the way. My beautiful boy Gianluca cannot wait to see his younger sibling. Thank you God for giving me another miracle baby. See you in June bubba. Xxx.”

Michael became a dad for the first time in 2021 when he welcomed Gianluca Greco with partner Helen. However, he since shared the tot’s birth was incredibly traumatic for them all. Gianluca, whose name is Italian and means gift of god, was born six weeks early as he had a rare defect called Gastroschisis. It is when the intestines are found outside of the baby’s body and other organs, such as the stomach and liver can also be affected.

Announcing his son’s birth, Michael said: “My boy. Gianluca Greco. Born July 1st 2021. Weighing 4.47lbs. The little man was born prematurely due to the fact that previous scans had failed to pick up his rare birth defect called Gastroschisis. The consultant suggested it was best for him to born early so that he could get the necessary care and attention. He was born at University College of London Hospital @uclh.

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“Their staff were extremely professional and Mother and Baby could not have been in better hands. Dad was a ‘tad’ emotional to say the least! Baby has already had his first operation to replace his bowel where it should belong and is under the world’s best care of @greatormondst where he will be in ICU for a while and most probably for up to 6 weeks. My heart is full already and this is by far the best day of my life. I love you Gianluca more than I can ever imagine.”