Benedict Cumberbatch, Sophie Hunter expecting child

LONDON: ' Sherlock' star Benedict Cumberbatch and fiancee Sophie Hunter are expecting their first child together.

Cumberbatch and Hunter are 'over the moon' as expectant parents, reported the Guardian.

"I am delighted to confirm that Benedict Cumberbatch and Sophie Hunter are expecting their first child. They are both over the moon," the actor's publicist told the newspaper.

Cumberbatch, 38, who sent his female fans on Twitter in mourning by announcing his engagement to Hunter, 36, in November last year, is generating awards buzz with his performance of Allen Turning in ' The Imitation Game'.

They are expected to marry this spring, reportedly earlier than anticipated. Cumberbatch has been spotted with Hunter at multiple award ceremonies over the past couple of months.

Cumberbatch is a frontrunner for the best actor in a drama award at the upcoming Golden Globe awards.