In a world where life's milestones often seem to follow a set timeline, it's always a bit of a surprise when someone bucks the trend.

And that's exactly what Brisbane radio host Matty Acton has done, stepping into the role of a grandfather at the tender age of 37.

It's a revelation that's caused quite a stir among his listeners and social media followers, challenging the conventional image of a grandparent.

Matty Acton, known for his lively presence on the Brisbane radio show Stav Abby & Matt, shared the heartwarming news on social media, revealing that his step-son Ethan, 23, had welcomed a baby into the world.

The radio host's post was filled with touching images of him cradling his new granddaughter, Illyria, and shedding tears of joy at the profound experience.

Radio host Matty Acton has welcomed his first grandchild at the age of 37. Credit: @mattyacton / Instagram

The family photos included his wife, Esther, and their two other children, Xander and Eden, all beaming with pride around the newest addition to their family.

‘Welcome to the family Illyria Fay Acton. We love and adore you,’ Matty said on his post.

The announcement was met with a mix of congratulations and disbelief.

Social media users quickly expressed their astonishment with comments like, 'Congratulations to all! But how [...] are you a Grandpa? I thought you were 30-something,' and 'You’re a grandpa? But you’re like 30!'

‘Adorable—congratulations to the family. What are you going to call yourself now that you are a Grandpa,’ another commented.

But for those who know Matty's story, the title of Grandpa isn't as far-fetched as it seems.

The radio host met his wife Esther when he was just 18 years old through a flatmate who served as the common link between the two while he was living in Toowoomba.

Esther, who is three years his senior, already had a three-year-old son, Ethan, from a previous relationship.

From the beginning, Matty embraced Ethan as his own, and the two have shared a close bond ever since.

In an interview, Matty reflected on his journey as a stepfather, saying, 'Esther already had a three-year-old when we met, so we don’t know any different. I feel very lucky that I have had the privilege of raising him as my own; he is now 22. Since having more kids, I’d say it’s made us closer.'

On his radio show, Matty even joked that he now wants everyone to call him 'granddaddy’.

You can watch Matty’s video below:

Credit: @mattyacton / Instagram​

Key Takeaways

• Brisbane radio host Matty Acton has become a grandfather at 37 after his stepson Ethan, aged 23, welcomed a child.
• Matty shared emotional photos on social media of him holding his grandchild, Illyria Fay Acton, and of his family celebrating the new arrival.
• Social media users expressed surprise at Matty's young age for a grandfather, leading to clarification about his family situation.
• Matty has raised his stepson Ethan as his own since meeting his wife Esther, who already had Ethan when Matty was 18 years old.

Do you have your own experiences with unconventional family roles or becoming grandparents at a younger age? How did it change your life, and what advice would you give to others stepping into similar situations? Share your stories in the comments below!

 

[Bill MacL]

Queenslanders don't always think with the head on their shoulders.

 

[NotNats]

I became a mother at 18
A Grandmother at 38
And a Great Grandmother at 62

What so strange or special about that - I have meet people even younger.

 

[Jennylolo]

a friend was 16 having her first child- and that child gave birth to her first at 16, and yet again for next generation. She was a great grandma at 48.

 

[MIZMAC]

My S.I.L. became mum at 18 and grandmum at 36.