Former Disney star Skai Jackson recently revealed her pregnancy, surprising fans worldwide with an announcement that has sparked a wave of reactions.

The 22-year-old star, best known for her role as Zuri Ross on “Jessie” and “Bunk’d,” shared exclusive photos with People proudly displaying her baby bump as she prepares to welcome her first child with her boyfriend.

Though Jackson has not publicly named her partner, she expressed her excitement about entering motherhood, stating, “I’m thrilled to begin this new chapter in my life — embracing motherhood and diving into new acting projects. My heart is so full!”

In the photos, Jackson is seen in a chic white cropped top highlighting her growing belly, paired with casual loose jeans, stylish sunglasses, and minimal jewelry. The simple yet bold look reflects her confidence as she embraces this new stage of life, defying stereotypes and celebrating her journey openly.

Additional images captured Jackson shopping for baby essentials, examining items with a focused, thoughtful expression as she prepares for her new role as a mother.

Fans quickly took to social media to share their thoughts on Jackson’s announcement and photos. Some fans were shocked by Jackson’s young age, with one user commenting, “Isn’t [she] so young for it? Mmmmm.” Another exclaimed, “No way!” while a third echoed surprise, calling the news “Insane.”

Several followers also reflected on the trend of young celebrities becoming parents, with one saying, “These young ladies are having children young…” and another sharing their shock with, “Mind blown here!😲😲😮😮😅😅🤯🤯”

Jackson’s age, in particular, was a point of discussion, with one fan asking, “AT 22 YEARS OLD??💀” and another humorously remarking, “[Ain’t] she like 12?”

Despite the shock from some, others appreciated her openness, as one user expressed, “I love that she’s embracing it and not being ashamed to show off her pregnant belly 💜.” Yet another netizen hinted at the news not coming as a surprise. “Wild! So young, but we knew for a bit now,” they wrote.

As she prepares for motherhood, Jackson, who appeared on “Dancing with the Stars” in 2020, draws inspiration from her close relationship with her mother, Kiya Cole, who raised her as a single parent. Jackson has previously credited her mom for instilling values of resilience and self-confidence.

“[My mom] always taught me to stand up for myself, stand up for what I believe in and fight for what is right,” she shared in a February 2023 interview with People. Reflecting on her mother’s impact, she added, “I thank her for that because, without her, I probably wouldn’t have a lot of the confidence that I do now.”

The actress, who released a book titled “Reach for the Skai: How to Inspire, Empower,” and “Clapback” in 2019, has always valued her role as a positive influence on young fans.

While acknowledging the pressures of being in the spotlight, Jackson strives to share encouraging messages with her followers, reminding them that they can achieve their dreams. “It’s very important for me to put out the right message, be positive at all times and give my fans great advice,” she noted.

With her first child on the way, Jackson is not only stepping into motherhood but also preparing for the release of her upcoming film, “The Man in the White Van,” which hits theaters on December 13.

As Jackson embraces the journey into motherhood, it’s clear that her life in the spotlight has always been a balancing act between her public persona and personal growth.

Having transitioned from a beloved Disney child star to a young adult navigating the entertainment industry, Jackson has continuously adapted to the shifting perceptions of her fans.

During an appearance on “The Jennifer Hudson Show” in March 2023, Jackson reflected on the challenges of growing up in the public eye.

When asked if fans found it difficult to see her as an adult, she responded, “Sometimes, yeah. I could see it, but they’re getting used to it, you know, they’re realizing I’m about to be 21. I’m growing up; they’re growing up, too. It’s like we all kind of just grew up together.”

Amused by Jackson’s reply, Hudson confessed, “I’m one of those people. I cannot believe you’re 21,” adding a lighthearted moment to the exchange.

Jackson’s journey began at a young age. She entered the industry as a child model before landing her breakthrough role on Disney’s “Jessie” in 2011, where she starred alongside Debby Ryan, Peyton List, and the late Cameron Boyce. Her bond with Boyce, in particular, has been one she continues to hold dear.

To mark Boyce’s 24th and 23rd birthdays in May 2023 and 2022 respectively, Jackson shared heartfelt throwback photos on Instagram, expressing her enduring love for her late co-star.

The photos captured a young Jackson and Boyce smiling widely, a poignant reminder of their early days in Hollywood and the friendships formed during that time.

Growing up in the limelight came with its challenges, as Jackson shared in an exclusive 2019 interview. She recalled how joining social media at a young age exposed her to harsh comments about her appearance, leading her to feel disheartened.

“I did notice a lot of hate comments or people would just, like, nitpick at my appearance, just to be funny. A lot of people go through this. The most popular people do,” she shared.

Reflecting on her younger self, she continued, “And for me, being a young age, I didn’t understand why these people were saying these things. I would get really, really sad.”

However, Jackson has since learned to overcome the negativity, focusing on self-love and resilience. “But now I’m starting to learn to love myself no matter what and not care what anyone says.”

As Jackson steps into her role as a mother, she does so with a wealth of experience from her childhood and a deep understanding of the pressures that come with public scrutiny.

Her journey, from a Disney star adored by young audiences to a role model navigating adulthood, has been closely watched by fans who grew up alongside her.

Now, with a new chapter on the horizon, Skai Jackson continues to inspire, embracing both her evolving personal life and her professional ambitions.