Abbey Holmes Radiates on Red Carpet Amidst Pregnancy Announcement

Channel Seven sports reporter Abbey Holmes captured attention on the red carpet at the 2026 Brownlow Medal Count in Melbourne on Monday night, displaying her burgeoning baby bump.

Holmes, who announced in July that she and her husband, AFL star Keegan Brooksby, are expecting their second child, wore an off-the-shoulder burgundy gown. The ensemble highlighted her pregnancy and featured a subtle cleavage detail. She complemented her attire with a Tiffany and Co. necklace, earrings, and bracelet, and wore her blonde hair in soft waves with a bronzed makeup palette.

She tenderly cradled her stomach while posing for photographers. Holmes had shared her pregnancy news on Instagram in July, stating that their new family member is due in January 2027. The announcement included her husband and their young son, Braxton.

"Soon to be 4... Keegs, Braxxy & I are so excited to let you all know that we are growing our family, expecting another beautiful little baby to join us in Jan 2027!" Holmes posted. "We feel incredibly lucky to be in this position and can't wait for Brax to become a big brother - he's going to nail it! Xx."

Holmes and Brooksby welcomed their first child, Braxton, in June of the previous year, having announced that pregnancy on New Year's Day 2025. This expanding family marks a significant personal milestone for the couple, both connected to Australian football.

Holmes, a former player for Adelaide's inaugural AFLW team, transitioned to television broadcasting. She is a regular contributor to Seven's AFL coverage.

She returned to broadcasting just seven weeks after Braxton's birth, aiming to show that women can balance careers and motherhood. While this decision faced some criticism on social media, Holmes defended her choice, emphasizing the importance and fulfillment she derives from her work.

"I think my work for me, it's so important. I genuinely love what I do. It doesn't feel like work in any way shape or form," Holmes stated at the time. "There's certainly a small minority of people out there that feel that they have the right to tell you what you should be doing and how things are to be done, which is never the case."

Holmes expressed gratitude for the support enabling her to combine television commitments with caring for a newborn. Brooksby, a former ruckman who played for Gold Coast, West Coast, and Hawthorn, has moved into football administration, serving as the General Manager of AFLW for the Hawthorn Football Club and overseeing their women's football program.