BBC presenter Michelle Ackerley has announced she is expecting her first child, revealing the news live on air during an episode of Morning Live on BBC One.
The 40-year-old, who has fronted shows such as Crimewatch, The One Show and Watchdog, shared the moment with viewers alongside co-host Gethin Jones.
After being introduced by Jones, 47, he turned to the camera and said: “Michelle has some news.” Ackerley smiled and confirmed: “I have actually, yes. I know—I still can’t quite believe it myself. I’m very, very happy. It’s just coming out slowly but surely. I am four months pregnant.”
The announcement was met with smiles and applause from the show’s guests, who congratulated the presenter on her news.
Ackerley spoke candidly about her experience so far, noting the early effects of pregnancy on her sleep.
“I’ve been waking up in the middle of the night at 3 am and nudging my husband to say, ‘this is what we’ve got to get used to—no sleep,’” she said with a laugh.
The presenter married Ben Ryan last year, who is currently the performance director at Premier League football club Brentford.
Ryan is well-known in the world of sports, having previously coached the England Rugby Sevens team and led Fiji to Olympic gold in rugby at the 2016 Rio Games.
In a post shared on Instagram, Ackerley reflected on her journey, writing: “Can’t believe it’s nearly been a year since getting married.” She also admitted feeling “nervous” but said she is cautiously excited about what lies ahead.
Opening up about her health struggles, Ackerley shared that she has battled endometriosis and infertility. “I wanted to share, though, as my journey with endometriosis and infertility is something I finally felt confident to start speaking about more openly last year—realising how many other women were going through similar experiences,” she wrote.
“Feeling part of a community—especially when it comes to women’s health—can make a difference. Even at the very start of this year, I was gearing up for yet another endo procedure and trying to come to terms with the mental and physical impact they can have.
It has been quite the emotional rollercoaster. The news of falling pregnant came as a massive surprise to both of us. We still can’t quite believe it.”
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, often causing severe pain, heavy periods, fatigue, and infertility. According to the World Health Organisation, the condition significantly impacts quality of life and mental health, affecting millions of women globally.
