Former Disney star Skai Jackson is pregnant with her first baby with her boyfriend, whose identity remains a secret. Jackson told PEOPLE she is “thrilled to begin this new chapter.” The 22-year-old also spoke about upcoming acting projects,

After Skai Jackson officially announced her pregnancy on Tuesday, Nov. 12, she's now defending her baby's father's reported posts slamming her online. The actress was spotted sporting her baby bump, giving a simple announcement of the news to the world after many speculated she was with-child.

The former Disney star, 22, is expecting her first baby with her boyfriend (who Jackson has not publicly identified), PEOPLE confirms exclusively. “I’m thrilled to begin this new chapter in my life — embracing motherhood and diving into new acting projects. My heart is so full!” Jackson tells PEOPLE.