skai jackson

 

Former Disney Star Skai Jackson Is Pregnant! Actress Expecting First Baby with Boyfriend (Exclusive)

"I’m thrilled to begin this new chapter in my life," the actress exclusively tells PEOPLE

Skai Jackson. PHOTO: 

DIGGZY / SHUTTERSTOCK / SPLASHNEWS

Skai Jackson is going to be a mom!

The former Disney star, 22, is expecting her first baby with her boyfriend (who Jackson has not publicly identified), PEOPLE confirms exclusively.

“I’m thrilled to begin this new chapter in my life — embracing motherhood and diving into new acting projects. My heart is so full!” Jackson tells PEOPLE.

Jackson next stars in the feature film The Man in the White Van. She recently attended Comic-Con to support the film, which will be released in theaters on Dec. 13.

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. 

As she prepares to become a mother herself, Jackson is also close with her mom, Kiya Cole, who raised the actress as a single mother.

"[My mom] always taught me to stand up for myself, stand up for what I believe in and fight for what is right,” she told PEOPLE in February 2023. “I thank her for that because without her, I probably wouldn't have a lot of the confidence that I do now.”  

Skai Jackson and her mom. 

DIGGZY / Shutterstock / SplashNews

The former child star acknowledged being a role model comes with "a lot of pressure," adding, "At the end of the day, I look at myself as the regular person that people just happen to like or enjoy."

Still, she said, "It's very important for me to put out the right message, be positive at all times and give my fans great advice. Let them know that anything that they want to do in life, they can achieve it."

Jackson, who is best known for playing Zuri Ross on Jessie and its spinoff Bunk'd, released her book, Reach for the Skai: How to Inspire, Empower and Clapback in 2019 and appeared on Dancing With the Stars in 2020.

Skai Jackson: A Rising Star in Hollywood and a Role Model for Youth

Skai Jackson has become a household name, especially among younger audiences, thanks to her impressive acting skills, charm, and commitment to making a difference. Rising from her humble beginnings to becoming a Disney Channel star and social media sensation, Skai Jackson is more than just a celebrity; she’s an influential voice advocating for positive change, mental health, and social justice. In this article, we explore Skai Jackson’s background, her journey to fame, her impact as a role model, and her advocacy work. We’ll also provide insights into why Skai Jackson’s influence extends beyond the entertainment industry, inspiring her fans and followers to take positive action.

Early Life and Background of Skai Jackson

Born on April 8, 2002, in Staten Island, New York, Skai Jackson was introduced to the entertainment industry at a very young age. Her mother, Kiya Cole, played a significant role in Skai’s career, supporting and guiding her through the challenging world of show business. Skai’s early interest in acting and modeling led her to appear in commercials and print advertisements, allowing her to build a foundation for her future in the industry.

Her big break came when she landed a role on the Disney Channel series "Jessie," where she portrayed Zuri Ross, a lovable and spunky character who quickly captured the audience’s hearts. Skai's portrayal of Zuri made her a recognizable figure in children’s entertainment, and the show’s success paved the way for her to take on more significant projects.

Breakthrough Role: Disney Channel’s "Jessie"

Skai Jackson’s role in "Jessie" (2011-2015) was her first major television role, where she starred alongside established Disney actors like Debby Ryan, Peyton List, and Cameron Boyce. Playing the role of Zuri Ross, Skai stood out for her wit, humor, and natural talent, which endeared her to audiences of all ages. "Jessie" became a popular show on Disney Channel, and Skai’s role in the series solidified her status as one of Disney’s most promising young talents.

After "Jessie" ended, Skai continued to play Zuri in the spin-off series "Bunk’d" (2015-2018), which allowed her to further develop her character and showcase her growing acting skills. Skai’s transition from "Jessie" to "Bunk’d" demonstrated her versatility and adaptability as an actress, earning her even more fans.

Social Media Influence and Activism

As Skai Jackson transitioned into her teenage years, she quickly realized the importance of social media in connecting with her fans and using her platform to speak out on issues she cares about. With millions of followers on platforms like Instagram and Twitter, Skai has used her voice to promote positive messages, including mental health awareness, anti-bullying, and social justice.

One of the key moments in Skai Jackson’s activism came when she publicly called out internet trolls and bullies, showcasing her determination to stand up against online harassment. Skai’s brave stance against cyberbullying resonated with her fans, many of whom looked up to her for support and guidance. By using her social media platforms to promote kindness and respect, Skai has positioned herself as a role model for young people worldwide.

Skai Jackson’s Impact on Social Justice

In addition to her anti-bullying efforts, Skai Jackson has also become a vocal advocate for social justice. In 2020, during the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement, Skai actively participated in discussions around racial equality, police reform, and systemic injustice. She took a stand by sharing educational resources and calling out instances of racism, showing her commitment to using her platform for good.

Skai’s activism has earned her both praise and criticism, but she has remained steadfast in her dedication to these causes. Her courage in speaking up for what she believes in has inspired countless young people to become more socially aware and involved in their communities.

Skai Jackson’s Acting Career Beyond Disney

While Skai Jackson is widely recognized for her Disney Channel roles, she has also branched out into other projects, showcasing her versatility as an actress. In addition to her work in children’s television, Skai has made guest appearances on shows like "K.C. Undercover" and "Austin & Ally", expanding her acting portfolio.

In recent years, Skai has also pursued voice acting, lending her voice to characters in animated series such as "Marvel Rising: Initiation" and "DreamWorks Dragons: Rescue Riders". This venture into voice acting has allowed Skai to reach a broader audience and demonstrate her range as an entertainer.

Author and Entrepreneur

In 2019, Skai Jackson released her memoir, "Reach for the Skai: How to Inspire, Empower, and Clapback", which details her journey from childhood to stardom and offers life lessons for young people. In her book, Skai shares insights into her experiences with bullying, fame, and her efforts to stand up for herself and others. Her memoir serves as a source of motivation for her fans, providing them with a glimpse into the challenges she has faced and overcome.

The success of her memoir has further solidified Skai’s status as a role model, as her story encourages readers to pursue their dreams, overcome adversity, and make a positive impact. Skai Jackson’s journey as an author and entrepreneur demonstrates her drive to inspire others and expand her influence beyond the entertainment industry.

Skai Jackson as a Role Model for Youth

Skai Jackson’s journey from child star to a social media influencer and activist is a testament to her resilience, determination, and desire to make a difference. Her commitment to standing up for what she believes in, despite criticism and challenges, makes her a powerful role model for young people today. Skai’s advocacy for mental health awareness, anti-bullying, and social justice resonates deeply with her fans, who view her as a source of inspiration and strength.

By being open about her struggles and triumphs, Skai Jackson has shown that success comes with hard work, self-confidence, and a willingness to stand up for one’s beliefs. She is a shining example of a young person who has used her fame to impact the world positively, making her a true role model for her generation.

Conclusion: Skai Jackson’s Lasting Legacy

Skai Jackson’s career is still in its early stages, yet she has already made a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and beyond. From her memorable roles on Disney Channel to her advocacy work on social media, Skai has proven herself as a multifaceted talent with a heart for making a difference. As she continues to grow and take on new challenges, there is no doubt that Skai Jackson’s influence will continue to inspire young people around the world.

For those who look up to her, Skai represents resilience, compassion, and courage. She has shown that it is possible to pursue a career in the entertainment industry while staying true to one’s values and using one’s platform to advocate for change. As Skai Jackson’s journey continues, her legacy as a role model and advocate will undoubtedly continue to grow, inspiring a new generation to make a positive impact in their own lives and communities.