Former NHL star Brooks Laich and champion CrossFit athlete Katrín Tanja Davíðsdóttir have joyously welcomed their first child, daughter Emberly Heba Laich, sharing their overflowing love with the world. In a heartwarming display of modern family dynamics, Laich’s ex-wife, Julianne Hough, also extended her sincere congratulations to the new parents.
The worlds of professional sports and fitness have intersected in a beautiful new way, as former NHL star Brooks Laich and his fiancée, two-time CrossFit Games champion Katrín Tanja Davíðsdóttir, have officially stepped into parenthood. The couple announced the arrival of their first child, daughter Emberly Heba Laich, on Wednesday, October 15, in a heartfelt Instagram post that quickly garnered widespread attention and congratulations.
Their announcement, accompanied by a carousel of tender photos taken just moments after Emberly‘s birth, expressed the depth of their emotions. “Our hearts are overflowing with love as we welcome our daughter into this world. Becoming her parents has been the greatest gift we ever could have imagined – our precious, peaceful, powerful little girl who was born under the full supermoon!,” the couple captioned their post. They added a poignant message, “Our world is forever brighter with you in it, our Emberly ❤️.”
The Journey to Parenthood
The couple’s path to becoming parents has been one openly shared with their fans. They first went Instagram official with their relationship in August 2021, with Laich proudly praising Davíðsdóttir’s athleticism after watching her compete at the 2021 NOBULL CrossFit Games. Their connection blossomed, leading to an engagement in 2024 after three years of dating.
The pregnancy announcement came on May 4, as the couple shared a series of endearing photos featuring sonogram pictures and Katrín‘s baby bump. “Our greatest blessing 🤍🫶🏼✨ Baby Laich coming this fall. Mom & Dad can’t wait to meet you, our little one!!!!!!” they wrote, sharing their excitement for the upcoming addition to their family.
A Modern Family: Julianne Hough’s Sweet Support
Adding another layer of warmth to the news, Laich‘s ex-wife, dancer and TV personality Julianne Hough, was among the first to extend her well wishes. “Congratulations you two on expanding your family – this baby is already so loved ✨,” Hough wrote in a comment on their announcement post, as reported by People. This public display of support highlights a mature and amicable relationship post-divorce.
Hough and Laich were married from 2017 to 2020, having dated since 2014. Their divorce was finalized in June 2022. Despite the end of their marriage, Julianne Hough has consistently spoken positively about their time together and Laich‘s role in her life. During an appearance on the Jamie Kern Lima Show podcast, Hough described a recent encounter with Laich and Davíðsdóttir at a wedding as “so beautiful.” She shared her personal growth, stating, “I’m in this place where I now feel like I’m just beginning with so much wisdom, with so much insight, with so much empathy and understanding of what’s possible.”
The wedding in question was likely that of Julianne‘s brother, Derek Hough, to Hayley Erbert in August 2023, where Laich served as a groomsman and Julianne was part of the bridal party, as noted by Us Weekly. This unique dynamic showcases a respectful and evolved relationship, a testament to personal healing and growth.
A New Chapter for Everyone
The arrival of Emberly Heba Laich signifies a joyful new chapter for Brooks Laich and Katrín Tanja Davíðsdóttir. Their journey, marked by shared athletic passion, public declarations of love, and now, the profound experience of parenthood, resonates deeply with fans. Meanwhile, Julianne Hough‘s graceful and supportive reaction reflects a positive outlook on life and relationships, reminding us that new beginnings can bring unexpected harmony.
As the family expands, the outpouring of love and well wishes from fans and fellow celebrities alike underscores the enduring appeal of these public figures. The story of Emberly‘s arrival, intertwined with the respectful connections of a modern family, offers a compelling narrative that continues to captivate and inspire.
