AFL icon Buddy Franklin and his model wife Jesinta have received what they call the "ultimate Christmas present" – the safe arrival of their third child.
A Christmas Eve Announcement
The famous couple, who now reside in Queensland, shared their happy news with fans on social media on Christmas Eve, 2024. The heartwarming announcement came via a black-and-white photo posted to Jesinta's Instagram account.
The endearing snapshot captured an intimate family moment, seemingly taken in a hospital elevator as they prepared to head home. In the image, Jesinta can be seen managing bags and a pillow while taking a selfie. Meanwhile, the proud new dad, Buddy Franklin – the AFL legend originally from Western Australia – gently cradles their newborn.
Home for the Holidays
The couple accompanied the photo with a simple yet powerful caption that resonated with the festive season: "Home for Christmas with the most special gift of all." The post did not reveal the baby's name or gender.
This new addition joins the Franklin's two other children, their daughter Tullah and son Rocky, completing their family of five just in time for the holidays.
A Blessed Surprise
The journey to this moment began earlier in the year. Back in June 2024, Jesinta shared the surprise pregnancy news in a beautifully crafted video. The clip showed her silhouette against a wall in their home, with sunlight streaming through a window as her two children hugged and touched her growing belly.
At the time, she expressed her feelings in the caption, calling the pregnancy "an absolute blessing." Jesinta revealed that while they initially felt their family was complete with two children, they felt incredibly lucky to be adding another.
"Life works in mysterious ways, and I’m leaning into this next chapter with a grateful heart," she wrote. She also noted that Tullah and Rocky were "beside themselves" with excitement to meet their new sibling.
The Franklin family is now settling in at home, undoubtedly enjoying a truly memorable and love-filled Christmas with their precious new arrival.
