The journey to fatherhood might have started off late for Hugh Grant, but he is making up for lost time now.

Last night it was confirmed that the 55-year-old actor is expecting his second child with rumoured girlfriend Anna Eberstein, making him a dad for the fourth time.

The English star is already father to two children with his ex Tinglan Hong, Tabitha Jing Xi, aged four, and son Felix, aged two.

Hugh's newest arrival will be a little brother or sister for three-year-old John Mungo, the actor's first child with Swedish TV producer Anna.

Both Anna and Tinglan were reportedly pregnant at the same time back in 2013, meaning Hugh became father to three children in 15 months. 

The two mothers live within walking distance of Hugh's West London home, Tinglan in a €1.6m terrace house and Anna in a €3.6m mansion apartment.

Hugh and Anna did not confirm they were back together of late but their appearance together at Wimbledon in July prompted rumours they might be more than just good friends.

Although becoming a dad came as a bit of a shock to Hugh – indeed, Tabitha's full name means 'happy surprise' – the actor said he took to it all very fast.

"I thought, well, I’ll bluff through — but very little bluffing has been required,” he said in an interview back in 2012.

"Now that I have a child, it is life-changing. I recommend it. Get some."