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29 Dec 2025

Two Johnnies Star Johnny ‘Smacks’ marks first Christmas in hospital with newborn Son JJ

RTE comedy star shares update on newborn son as family spend first Christmas in hospital

Two Johnnies Star Johnny ‘Smacks’ marks first Christmas in hospital with newborn Son JJ

Photos from: @johnny.smacks on Instagram.

Johnny ‘Smacks’ McMahon has given an update on his newborn son JJ as the family spend their first Christmas together in hospital.

The young baby boy was  born mid December 2025 with a rare condition, and since then, he has been receiving specialist care at Children’s Health Ireland in Crumlin, Dublin.

READ NEXT: The two Johns were honoured by Clonmel Golf Club for outstanding service 

JJ was diagnosed before birth with gastroschisis, a congenital condition in which some of the intestines develop outside the body.

His parents, Johnny and Annie McMahon, were informed early in the pregnancy that their son would require immediate and complex medical attention after birth.

The infant has undergone three surgeries aimed at returning his bowel to his body. Doctors warned that his survival was uncertain, making the early weeks of JJ’s life a tense and emotional period for the family.

In a recent podcast episode, Johnny described the relief they felt as JJ “is out of the woods now” and added that they hope to bring him home in the spring.

The 34-year-old shared a series of photographs on Instagram, giving fans a glimpse of their hospital-based Christmas celebrations.

One of the images shows JJ in a miniature Tipperary jersey with ‘The 2 Johnnies’ written on the back, a nod to Johnny’s well-known comedy partnership.

His podcasting colleague, Johnny ‘B’ O’Brien, visited the family in hospital and took a smiling snap with Johnny and JJ. Other images show Annie and Johnny wearing festive headbands while holding their son, highlighting the tender moments amid the clinical setting.

In his post, Johnny expressed heartfelt gratitude to supporters. “Happy Christmas everyone. Thanks to ye all for yer kind messages and lovely words over the last few weeks,” he wrote.

He also shared a brief update on JJ’s condition, stating: “JJ is on the mend, we can’t wait to get him home. Hope ye all have a brilliant Christmas, see ye in 2026.”

Fans and friends responded with warmth and encouragement. Cassandra commented: “That’s one treasured little boy. Annie looks amazing.

Merry Christmas McMahons.” Dan wrote: “Love to see it man, merry Christmas lads.” Noeleen added: “Gorgeous photos, hope ye have a great Christmas.

2026 will be very, very special for you Annie & little JJ.” Catherine remarked: “Happy Xmas lads, all the best for 2026! And I hope little JJ is home soon.”

The couple, who have both spoken openly about their gratitude for the hospital staff who cared for JJ during his early weeks, have also announced a charitable initiative.

The 2 Johnnies are organising an all-ages family matinee at the 3Arena on Easter Monday, April 6, with proceeds going to the Children’s Health Foundation.

The gesture reflects the couple’s desire to give back to the medical team who supported them during a challenging start to parenthood.

Johnny’s first Christmas as a father, spent in hospital, has been marked by resilience, joy, and community support. The public response demonstrates the strong connection the 2 Johnnies have with their fans, and the family remains optimistic as they look forward to welcoming JJ home in the months ahead.

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