Jillian Murray, known for her role in “Code Black,” and Dean Geyer, famed for his performance in “Glee,” are excitedly anticipating the arrival of their first child together. The couple, who tied the knot in September 2017, shared their joyful news in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE.
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Murray, 41, described her pregnancy as an “unexpected surprise.” The happy revelation came while she was filming a holiday movie in New York for Great American Media. Initially, she experienced unusual congestion, which she thought might be an allergic reaction. Curious about this sudden change, she realised that pregnancy hormones could be responsible for the symptoms. The realisation prompted her to take a test, and to her astonishment, it confirmed her pregnancy.
“Keeping that news to myself while continuing to film was incredibly difficult,” Murray admitted, reflecting on the surreal experience of holding such transformative news. Despite being away from Geyer, she crafted a unique way to reveal the big news to him. She told him that an “opportunity” had arise from her team, dropping hints without directly stating it was about their family. Murray arranged a FaceTime call before her first scene, where she sent him an email packed with the details.
Geyer’s response was heartwarming; he was initially preoccupied with questions about the supposed movie offer until the significance of the message dawned on him. “He immediately started crying the sweetest, happiest tears and jumping up and down. It was such a special moment,” Murray recalled.
During this exciting time, Murray has reported feeling fortunate as she navigates her pregnancy, saying she has experienced no extreme cravings. However, she is grappling with the challenge of adjusting to new sleeping arrangements, as she has been advised to sleep on her side instead of her back. Sleeping through the night has also become elusive due to the increased frequency of bathroom visits.
In February, the couple discovered the sex of their baby in an intimate reveal set against the backdrop of a nature reserve, surrounded by various wildlife. Murray mentioned that they are currently honing in on baby names, having refined their options down to a shortlist. They are testing the names in their home to see which feels the most natural, all while considering the compatibility of the name in both her American accent and Geyer’s South African accent.
Murray, who also appears in “When Hope Calls: Brookfield,” expressed her joy and the surprise of impending parenthood. They originally planned to start a family later, having waited until they felt ready and acknowledging the uncertainty of conception at this stage of life. Their approach has been one of relaxed acceptance, believing that the outcome would be in divine hands.
“We really just felt that it was in God’s hands that whatever was meant to be would be, with no pressure either way,” Murray explained, adding how this perspective has made their pregnancy journey feel even more special.
She expressed deep gratitude for her connection with Great American Family, particularly during such a significant phase of her life, citing the network’s emphasis on family values. “I get to make incredible movies that I’m proud to share with my little one in the future,” she shared, reflecting on the support she has felt throughout her career.
As the couple prepares to embark on this new chapter, their excitement is palpable. Murray’s journey into motherhood, alongside Geyer, is marked by anticipation and a deep sense of joy as they look forward to welcoming their new addition to the family.