A great joy for the 39-year old actress who, after two years, managed to beat breast cancer and has founded the Right Action for Women Association to support prevention. For Applegate another source of support was paramount during her pregnancy – that of her partner Martyn, whom she got officially engaged after a three years relationship last year on Valentine’s Day. “Martyn has been an incredible part of my life” says Christina “without him, I don’t know if I could have gone through any of it”.

A spokesperson close to the couple said that Christina and Martyn (41) “are over the moon”. What kind of mum is Christina likely to be? Not long ago, the actress declared: “My mum always told me to do what I wanted to. I think I’ll be a similar parent, a little bit hippie. Without ever imposing myself on the children”.