9 Stars Who Have Competed on Reality Shows While Pregnant

In the demanding realm of reality television, the challenges can be intensified for those competing while pregnant. Shows like “Dancing with the Stars” and “The Challenge” have seen several participants navigate the complex balance of performing while expecting. With a mixture of joy and challenges, these individuals have shared their experiences in a series of public announcements and media interactions over the years.

One noteworthy example is professional dancer Peta Murgatroyd, who achieved victory in season 22 of “Dancing with the Stars” while pregnant with her son, Shai. Despite her intention to keep her pregnancy a secret until her second trimester, the signs of her condition became evident. “I was so sick,” Murgatroyd recalled in an interview, noting that her dance partner, Nyle DiMarco, became aware of her condition due to her bouts of extreme fatigue. Ultimately, she managed to secure the win, and her son was born in January 2017.

Fast forward a decade, and fellow dancer Witney Carson is set to compete in the 35th season of “Dancing with the Stars” while in her second trimester. Carson’s enthusiasm for the upcoming season is palpable. She stated, “As long as the baby is healthy and as long as I’m doing well, then we will compete again on this season.” Carson previously revealed her pregnancy during a season 31 semi-final performance, opting for a brief hiatus in season 32 to focus on her growing family.

Another participant with a unique story is Olivia Kaiser, a contestant from “The Challenge.” Shortly after wrapping up filming for season 41, Kaiser learned she was expecting a child with fellow participant Theo Campbell. The revelation came as a shock, as she shared on social media video footage capturing her surprise at the news. The couple welcomed their son, Atlas, in November 2025, marking a joyous turn after what had been a competitive season.

DeLeesa St. Agathe, known for her victory on “The Circle,” also found herself in an unexpected situation. While filming, she took a pregnancy test in her apartment, discovering she was expecting her second child. Balancing her competitive spirit, St. Agathe chose to keep her pregnancy private until after the show had concluded.

The experience of Melissa Reeves during “The Challenge: Total Madness” was similarly transformative. Just before the finale, Reeves stepped away after suspecting her pregnancy. “When my body told me to stop, I had to,” she explained, reflecting on the difficult decision. Her daughter, Vienna, was born shortly after, in May 2020.

Another “Dancing with the Stars” pro, Daniella Karagach, learned of her pregnancy shortly after season 31 concluded. “We’ve wanted a family ever since we’ve gotten married,” she stated, expressing her delight at the timing of the pregnancy. Karagach shared that continuing to dance throughout her pregnancy was beneficial, as her doctor advised her that remaining active would positively impact her health and that of her unborn child.

Heather Hansen left her mark on “The Biggest Loser” when she announced her pregnancy during the season finale. Her heartfelt confession involved a conversation with her husband about the prospect of a baby versus a monetary prize. The emotional moment culminated in their joyous acknowledgment of impending parenthood.

Allison Holker, another familiar face from “Dancing with the Stars,” revealed her pregnancy while partnered with singer Andy Grammer during season 21. Holker expressed her excitement, stating, “I am four months along. I have been holding this secret… I must pat myself on the back because I have done an awesome job not telling anybody.” The couple welcomed their son, Maddox, in March 2016.

Lastly, Miss Canada Jamie VandenBerg made headlines after competing in the Miss Universe 2025 pageant. She disclosed her pregnancy a few months later, expressing her decision to keep it private as a way of adding intimacy to her experience during a high-profile event. “I really loved that we did that,” she shared, showcasing the duality of public visibility and personal significance.

Through these compelling stories, it becomes evident that the journey of balancing pregnancy and competition has become an integral aspect of reality television. The courage and determination of these individuals to maintain their passion for performance while preparing for motherhood resonate widely, inspiring both audiences and fellow contestants.