CNN’s Jessica Dean Is Pregnant, Expecting Her First Baby with Husband Alex Katz (Exclusive)

**CNN Anchor Jessica Dean Announces Pregnancy with First Child**

Jessica Dean, the acclaimed CNN anchor, is delighted to share that she and her husband, Alex Katz, are expecting their first child, a baby boy, this June. A representative for the journalist confirmed the happy news exclusively to PEOPLE. The couple tied the knot in June 2024, marking a significant year for their relationship.

At 41, Dean describes her pregnancy journey as feeling “right on time.” In an interview, she expressed her joy, stating, “If I’m being honest, it hasn’t really felt real until…now.” The couple embraced the moment of revealing their pregnancy to friends and family, with Dean playfully noting that while her husband had been eager to share the news from day one, she was more inclined to wait until the reveal was almost overdue.

Reflecting on her experience so far, Dean shared that she has been fortunate with her health during the early stages of pregnancy. She recalled a particularly challenging day around the six-week mark when she filled in on CNN’s morning edition, juggling early hours and bouts of nausea. In a light-hearted moment, she remembered snacking on everything within reach during commercial breaks in an effort to soothe her queasy stomach.

Dean has developed a newfound appreciation for fruit, claiming that simple foods like apples have transformed into extraordinary treats during her pregnancy. “I remember eating an apple and thinking this is the greatest apple, the most perfect thing I’ve ever tasted,” she reminisced, attributing this delight to her pregnancy.

Staying active has been a priority for the soon-to-be parents. Living in New York City allows Dean the opportunity to incorporate daily walks into her routine, and she’s been continuing with the Tracy Anderson Method, albeit with some modifications. “That movement helps me keep sane and feeling like myself,” she explained, emphasising the importance of maintaining her usual rhythm amidst the changes.

The couple has already selected a name for their unborn son, a decision that was made surprisingly before Dean became pregnant. The name has taken on a special significance, resonating with both parents. Dean mentioned, “We can’t name this child anything else; this is it,” which highlights the thoughtful consideration behind their choice.

As she looks ahead, Dean anticipates embracing the joys of motherhood, along with the inevitable chaos that comes with raising a child. She appreciates having arrived at this moment in her life later than some, stating, “At the age of 41, I really know myself, I know my weaknesses and strengths.” This self-awareness has helped her approach pregnancy with a sense of confidence and calm.

The anchor has also found unique connections between her career and her pregnancy, especially during live broadcasts. “From his earliest days, this baby has been right there with me for some of the biggest breaking news,” Dean said, noting how her little one has shared in significant moments on air. Her anecdote about feeling the baby respond to the show’s opening music highlights a bond already forming between mother and child.

Navigating the challenges of dressing while pregnant has been yet another layer to her experience. Dean candidly remarked about the difficulties of finding the right attire during the transitional phase between her regular clothing and maternity wear. “The question of ‘what am I going to wear’ becomes a bit more complicated,” she noted, but appreciated the current fashion trends, mentioning her fondness for elastic waistbands.

As Jessica Dean prepares to welcome her baby boy into the world, she embodies the joy of new beginnings while balancing the demands of a high-profile career. With her practical approach and an open heart, she looks forward to embarking on this transformative journey into motherhood.