Skai Jackson, best known for her beloved role as Zuri Ross on Jessie and Bunk’d, is taking on an exciting new chapter: motherhood. The 22-year-old actress and author shared the news with PEOPLE, saying she feels “thrilled” and “her heart is full” as she anticipates the arrival of her first child.
In addition to her pregnancy, Jackson will soon make a major career leap in The Man in the White Van, a horror film set to release on Dec. 13. After attending Comic-Con to support her latest project, the star shared her excitement for the film’s release and her shift into darker, more mature roles.
Jackson’s mother, Kiya Cole, has been a guiding force throughout her career, and Jackson has often credited her for instilling confidence and resilience. “She taught me to stand up for myself,” Jackson told PEOPLE earlier this year, noting her mother’s significant influence on her values and mindset.
Jackson, who penned Reach for the Skai: How to Inspire, Empower and Clapback in 2019, has long been open about her commitment to being a positive influence on her fans. Although she describes herself as “just a regular person,” Jackson understands the importance of setting an example. “It’s very important for me to put out the right message and let [my fans] know they can achieve anything they set their mind to.”
Despite her recent successes, Jackson’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. In August, she and her boyfriend made headlines following a reported misunderstanding that resulted in a brief arrest for Jackson. After being released without any charges, both clarified that the incident was simply a misunderstanding. Recently, Jackson issued a playful statement on Instagram, reminding fans to respect her privacy.
As Jackson steps into motherhood and expands her acting portfolio, fans are eager to see what’s next for the actress. With a promising film and a new family member on the way, Jackson’s future looks bright.