New dad Mark Wright reveals how he and Michelle decided on baby’s name – and it’s NOT to do with holiday destination
NEW dad Mark Wright has revealed how he and Michelle Keegan decided on baby Palma’s name – and it’s not to do with holiday destination.
Mark, 38, opened up about the story behind his newborn daughter Palma’s name during an appearance on This Morning with Olly Murs, 40, today.
While fans may have thought the name was inspired by the Mallorcan capital, Mark clarified that wasn’t the case at all.
During the interview, Mark shared that he and wife Michelle Keegan, 37, simply loved the name Palmer, but with a twist.
He told hosts Dermot O’Leary and Sian Welby: “We just love the name, Palmer, with an E-R.
“And then we just liked putting an A on it, which is like the way it read. So yeah, we just love the name, really.”
Mark and Michelle recently went on their first staycation with their bundle of joy.
Alongside pictures from the break, he wrote: “In my Dad era…. 1st trip away with my girls.”
In the carousel of images, former Towie star Mark wore a dressing gown and held Palma close to his chest.
He and Michelle also clinked glasses of Aperol Spritz and, in another, they flashed smiles as they snapped a selfie in the back of a car.
Mark was also seen cutting a casual look as he strolled around in the sunshine with the pram, and another shot saw him cradling Palma in his arms while walking.
The couple took the opportunity to ride bikes in the countryside, making the most of the sunny weather.
In the comments, delighted fans wished them a happy trip. One said: “Love seeing this such a beautiful family sending love to you all guys.”
A second person added: “Absolutely gorgeous. Hope you all enjoy the time away as a family.”
And a third commented: “Looks good on you. So happy for you both.”
Actress Michelle recently enjoyed her first Mother’s Day as a mum, calling it a “special day”.
The Brassic star has kept a low profile in recent weeks following Palma’s birth. Mark has doted on her by cooking meals such as lasagna which Michelle rated “10/10”.
Mark Wright's career timeline
Since rising to fame over a decade ago as a reality TV star, popular personality Mark Wright has gone on to enjoy a successful career.
- The Only Way is Essex (2010-2011, regular): Mark was an original Towie cast member from its October 2010 launch and spanning series 1-3. He left the programme in 2011 but has returned for a handful of cameos.
- I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here (2011): After leaving Towie, Mark signed up for the famed ITV jungle. He finished in second place behind McFly star Dougie Poynter.
- Heart (2012-2017; 2019 – present): Mark first joined radio station Heart in 2012, leaving five years later to pursue work in the United States. He made a return to the station in July 2019.
- Strictly Come Dancing (2014): The star took to the Strictly ballroom in 2014, finishing fourth behind Caroline Flack, Simon Webbe and Frankie Bridge.
- The Dengineers (2015-2017): Mark was a co-presenter of the children’s programme for its first two series. After his departure, later hosts have included Joe Swash and Meryl Fernandes.
- Extra (2017-2020): Mark was an entertainment reporter for this US outlet for three years.
- The Bachelor UK (2019): A revived UK iteration of the popular American dating show. Mark’s version of the programme aired on Channel 5.
- The Challenge UK (2023): Another UK rendition of an American format, this aired on Channel 5 in February 2023.
- Clean It, Fix It (2024 – present): Mark has joined the popular BBC daytime show from its fourth series onwards.