Shocking age for a grandpa? Popular radio host claims title at just 37!

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.


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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!
 
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I was a mother at 17 but had to wait until 50 to be a grandmother. Now 71 and granddaughter 21 and nowhere near having a baby - perhaps I will not gigot to be a Great Grandmother. Pity really as I was a much better grandmother that a mother.
 
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.
That sounds like me I was married at 16 ! first child a year later! It was great we grew up with them all. 4 kids. 10 Grandkids, and number 9 Great grandchild on the way.
 
I became a grandmother at 43 a great grandmother at 60 think on average par for the course. Don't think will become great,great even though my great grand kids are mid 20s they don't seem to want children. Can't blame them would be hard graft now with what they still want to do
 
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I was a bit different all those years ago. Married at 19. Didn't want children at that age. Hubby and I had an enjoyable time for 8 years before having my first child at 27. Kids are fun. No grandchildren yet.
 
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My mum became a grandma to my daughter at the age of 40. And 43 to my son. I became a grandma to my first grandchild at 46. Mum became a great grandma 65. I only hope l will make it to be a great grandma. Keeps me young. Would not change it at all.
Congratulations to the whole family with the arrival of this beautiful baby girl.
Kind regards Vicki
 
My mum had my sister at 16, she became a grandmother at 34 when my sister had her son. When she passed away at 57 she had 16 grandchildren, she had ten children so a lot of grandchildren. All up there are now 24 grandchildren. Mum never got to meet 8 of her grandchildren, or any of her18 great grandchildren to date.
 
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My mum had my sister at 16, she became a grandmother at 34 when my sister had her son. When she passed away at 57 she had 16 grandchildren, she had ten children so a lot of grandchildren. All up there are now 24 grandchildren. Mum never got to meet 8 of her grandchildren, or any of her18 great grandchildren to date.
How sad mum wasn't here still to enjoy her huge beautiful big family. I am sure mum is watching over you all with great pride 🕊️🪽🩷🩵
Keep mum close to your heart every day
Love Vicki
 
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I became a Grandmother at 39 and a Great Grandmother at 56!
I can enjoy watching them all growing up, the careers they chose and families they now have.
I'm very proud of them all and hope I live long enough to meet the next generation.
 
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