Former Strictly Come Dancing star announces she's pregnant as co-stars rush to congratulate

Former Strictly Come Dancing star Joanne Clifton has announced she's pregnant with her first child as she and her partner, actor and musician AJ Jenks, are going to be parents very soon.Joanne, who was a pro dancer on Strictly from 2014 to 2016, is best known to fans of the show for lifting the Glitterball Trophy in her last year alongside celebrity partner, TV and radio presenter Ore Oduba.Now, Joanne and AJ have announced the happy news on social media, as her Strictly co-stars rushed to congratulate her on the imminent arrival.Related: Best streaming services UK 2026 – including Disney Plus, Netflix, iPlayer and Apple TVIn an Instagram post, the couple shared a picture of a 'Baby on board' Transport for London badge, with AJ writing in the caption: "Can't wait to meet... ErlingbellinghamDebrunyeLennonMcCartneyTaylorHanson... HelenMcroryClaudiaWinklemanAlanCarrBuddyHolly... PollyShermanPrincessFiona Clifton-Jenks. Cya in December!"While the epic baby's name might need some shortening, Strictly stars flooded the comment section with celebratory messages.Former pro Karen Hauer, who won't be appearing on the upcoming Strictly season, wrote: "Aww wonderful news!! Congratulations," as did pro Michelle Tsiakkas, who's also among the pros exiting ahead of the new series.Current Strictly pro dancers Dianne Buswell and Amy Dowden also offered their congratulations with a string of heart emojis, as well as Oti Mabuse, who wrote: "Incredible news."Neil Jones wrote: "The best news. Congratulations," as Janette Manrara also described it as "amazing news".Joanne's brother Kevin Clifton commented with a row of heart emojis, as did his partner Stacey Dooley, who he competed with on Strictly in 2018."Beyond thrilled!!" commented Sara Davies, while Fleur East added: "Wooo! Congratulations.""Ahhhhh incredible," wrote 2025 Strictly runner-up Amber Davies, while Emmerdale star Lisa Riley offered: "Congratulations, what wonderful news".Next month, Joanne and Ore will be reuniting for a week-long tour titled 10: Champions Reignited. The show will be "filled with songs, stories, and dances from their glittering careers".Strictly Come Dancing will return to the BBC later this year.Visit our Streaming Guide now to see at a glance where you can view ALL your favourite shows and movies.The new edition of Living Legends, celebrating the global phenomenon of BTS, is here! Buy this ultimate fan guide in newsagents or online.