Podcaster Johnny Smacks announces birth of son JJ

James Cox

Podcaster Johnny Smacks, of the 2 Johnnies, has announced that he and his wife Annie have welcomed a baby boy, JJ.

He made the announcement at the 2 Johnnies' 3Arena show on Saturday night.

He shared that JJ has been under the care of the doctors and nurses of Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) in Crumlin since he was born as he was diagnosed with Gastroschisis.

Gastrochisis is a rare congenital birth defect where a hole forms in the abdominal wall causing the intestines to ­protrude outside the body.

Smacks said he will discuss the condition, and the fertility jouney himself and Annie were on, on the podcast.

The 2 Johnnies are organising a charity family show in 3Arena Easter Monday next year with proceeds going to Children’s Health Foundation.

Johnny Smacks said: “I’m delighted to share some incredibly special news. A few weeks ago, Annie and I welcomed our little boy, JJ, into the world, and I’m officially a dad. It’s been a whirlwind, but the best kind. From early in the pregnancy, we knew there would be complications, and when JJ was born he was diagnosed with gastroschisis. He needed a couple of operations straight away, and he’ll be in hospital for a while yet, but he’s already shown unbelievable fight. I’m happy to say he’s doing well and getting stronger every day.

"I want to give a massive thank-you to the amazing staff in Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin. The care, support, and kindness they’ve shown us has been outstanding, and we’ll never be able to thank them enough.

Most of all, I want to say how proud I am of Annie. She’s been incredible throughout everything - strong, calm, and absolutely heroic. JJ is lucky to have her as his mam. For now, we’re just taking it all in, celebrating our little man, and looking forward to bringing him home when he’s ready.”