Madeleine West welcomes seventh child at 47

Australian actress Madeleine West, best known for her role as Dee Bliss on Neighbours, has given birth to her seventh child at age 45. West announced the arrival on Instagram, expressing joy over the healthy newborn, though she did not disclose the name or gender. The pregnancy, which she initially mistook for perimenopause, was a surprise, prompting her to reflect on being an older parent and the lack of visibility for parents in their 40s and 50s. West received both support and criticism during her pregnancy, particularly regarding her decision to continue gentle exercise, which she defended as beneficial for her and her baby's health. She also shared that while some people expressed shock at her late-in-life pregnancy, many others reached out with supportive messages, noting feelings of isolation among older parents. West, who shares her other six children with former partner Shannon Bennett, emphasized her happiness and determination to parent on her own terms.