Strictly Come Dancing star Joanne Clifton, 42, has announced she is pregnant with her first child with fiancé AJ Jenks. The professional dancer shared the happy news on social media with a photo of a Baby On Board badge, while AJ revealed the baby's due date in December in the caption.
Announcement and Congratulations
Joanne, who won Strictly in 2016 with presenter Ore Oduba and appeared as a professional for three years, posted the announcement on social media. AJ humorously wrote in the caption: "Can't wait to meet ErlingbellinghamDebrunyeLennonMcCartneyTaylorHansonHelenMcroryClaudiaWinklemanAlanCarrBuddyHollyPollyShermanPrincessFiona Clifton-Jenks. Cya in December." Many of Joanne's Strictly co-stars, including Dianne Buswell, Oti Mabuse, and her brother Kevin Clifton (who won Strictly in 2019), offered their congratulations.
Relationship and Engagement
Joanne and AJ got engaged in September, announcing the news with a photo of her diamond ring and a caption: "Got bored … so we're getting married. Cheers." The couple have been together since 2020. Joanne previously told the Metro: "Before I met my boyfriend AJ, I said to myself, I'm not going to go out with anyone from the industry. But you can't help what happens. I went to see AJ in the Buddy Holly musical and he asked me out for a drink. I was convinced it wasn't going to work but we've been together nearly two years now."
Career After Strictly
After winning Strictly in 2016, Joanne immediately left the show and has since worked in musical theatre. She continues to perform and is now preparing for motherhood alongside her fiancé.
