On May 6, 2025, British television presenter Michelle Ackerley shared joyous news with her viewers on BBC Morning Live: she is pregnant with her first child. The 40-year-old presenter, known for her work on shows like Crimewatch and Watchdog, made the announcement live on air, revealing that she is currently four months along. The announcement came after Ackerley faced a challenging journey with infertility and endometriosis, which she has begun to discuss more openly in recent years.
Co-host Gethin Jones introduced her to the audience, teasing that she had some exciting news to share. Ackerley responded with a smile, saying, "I have actually, yes. I know I still can't quite believe it myself, really, very, very happy. It’s just come out slowly but surely. I am four months pregnant." The studio erupted in applause and congratulations from guests and colleagues, highlighting the supportive atmosphere surrounding her announcement.
Ackerley elaborated on her experience during the broadcast, sharing her struggles with insomnia during the pregnancy. "The thing is, I'm not really sleeping well at the moment so I've been waking up in the middle of the night at 3am and I've been taking it upon myself to wake Ben up and say this is what we are going to have to get used to," she joked, referring to her husband, Ben Ryan, a performance director at Brentford FC. Ryan, who previously coached the England Rugby 7’s team and helped Fiji win a gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, has remained a calming presence throughout her pregnancy.
Later that day, Ackerley took to Instagram to share her excitement and reflect on her journey. "I can’t believe it’s nearly been a year since getting married and I honestly didn’t think 12 months on that I’d be writing a post sharing that I’m pregnant," she wrote, alongside an ultrasound photo. "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 emphasized the importance of community, particularly regarding women's health, stating, "Feeling part of a community – especially when it comes to women’s health can really make a difference." Ackerley also acknowledged the emotional toll of her condition, saying, "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 & physical impact they can have. It has been quite the emotional rollercoaster."
Endometriosis, a chronic condition affecting approximately 1.5 million women in the UK, can cause severe pain, fatigue, and infertility, significantly impacting the quality of life. Ackerley’s openness about her struggles aims to raise awareness and connect with others facing similar challenges.
The announcement of her pregnancy has been met with widespread support from fans and colleagues alike. Ackerley expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of love, noting that the news came as a surprise to both her and Ryan. "The news of falling pregnant really came as a massive surprise to both of us. We still can't quite believe it," she said, adding that they are approaching this new chapter with cautious excitement.
As they prepare for the arrival of their child in October 2025, Ackerley and Ryan are excited yet nervous about the changes ahead. Their relationship, which has flourished over the years, saw them marry in 2024, and now they look forward to expanding their family.
Ackerley’s journey serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing resilience in the face of adversity. By sharing her story, she hopes to empower other women dealing with infertility and endometriosis, encouraging them to speak out and connect with one another.
In a world where discussions about women's health can often be stigmatized, Ackerley’s candidness is a refreshing reminder of the strength found in vulnerability. As she embarks on this new chapter, her story resonates with many, proving that hope and community can flourish even in the most challenging circumstances.
The couple's first child is due in October, marking the beginning of a new journey filled with love, laughter, and, undoubtedly, sleepless nights. As Ackerley prepares for motherhood, her story continues to unfold, inspiring those who follow her journey.
