Smacks – real name John McMahon – and his wife, Annie, welcomed a baby boy at Children’s Health Ireland in Crumlin a few weeks ago.
The new father said his son, J.J, has “already shown unbelievable fight”, having been diagnosed with gastroschisis at birth.
The condition, which required the new-born to go through surgery, is a abdominal wall defect.
It occurs early in the pregnancy when the infant’s abdomen does not fully develop while in utero. It can lead to the intestines developing outside, leaving them open to the air when the child is born.
Making the announcement at the duo’s A Country Christmas 3Arena show in Dublin on Saturday night, Mr McMahon said that complications were known early in the pregnancy.
Johnny Smacks with newborn son, J.J.
“I’m delighted to share some incredibly special news. A few weeks ago, Annie and I welcomed our little boy, J.J., into the world, and I’m officially a dad,” he said.
“It’s been a whirlwind, but the best kind. From early in the pregnancy, we knew there would be complications, and when J.J. 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.”
“For now, we’re just taking it all in, celebrating our little man”.
Mr McMahon also praised his wife adding: “Most of all, I want to say how proud I am of Annie. She’s been incredible throughout everything – strong, calm, and absolutely heroic. J.J. 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.”
Johnny O’Brien – known as Johnny B in the duo – congratulated his podcast partner on the birth.
“I’m over the moon for Smacks and Annie, they will be great parents. They’ve been unreal the last few months. That child is going to have the best runners in Ireland,” he said.
The 2 Jonnies will be organising a charity family show in 3Arena on Easter Monday, 2026, with proceeds going towards the Children’s Health Foundation.
Tickers for The 2 Johnnies and the Junior B All Stars is set to go on sale next Thursday, December 23.
The all ages show’s proceeds will go to aid CHI. The show will take place on Monday April 6, at the 3Arena.