Wayne Brady Reflects on Fatherhood, Authenticity, and Life After Coming Out As Pansexual
Written by b87fm on 01/20/2026
Comedian and television host Wayne Brady is opening up about fatherhood and the personal growth he’s experienced since embracing his most authentic self.
In an exclusive interview with People, Brady, 53, shared that while some might expect major lifestyle changes, his priorities have shifted inward in meaningful ways.
“It hasn’t changed in the big sense of, ‘Oh I’m out dating and whatnot,’ because really, I’m kind of [keeping] to myself,” Brady said.
Instead, he explained, the impact has been deeper—especially when it comes to representation and responsibility.
“I’m a believer in really trying to help the next generation,” he continued. “And I think that if there’s any little Black or brown kid growing up in any hood—any town USA—who feels bad about themselves or ashamed about themselves or less than, I hope that if they see me… maybe I can be verbal about myself. So I don’t have to carry that rock.”
Brady said living openly has brought a sense of freedom that carries into every part of his life.
“I feel lighter, because I’m me,” he said. “That lets me be a better actor. Lets me be a better performer onstage. Lets me be a better dad. Lets me be a better partner to someone someday. I’m happier, I’m brighter.”
The Let’s Make a Deal host came out as pansexual in August 2023. Pansexuality is defined as attraction to people regardless of sex or gender.
“I am pansexual,” Brady told People at the time, later joking, “Bisexual—with an open mind!”
Brady shares a 22-year-old daughter, Maile Masako, with his ex-wife, Mandie Taketa. In 2024, he also revealed that he is the father of a son, Val Henry, whom he shares with an ex-girlfriend, Tina.
He also credited the late Robin Williams with playing a pivotal role in his personal journey. Williams, who died by suicide in 2014, deeply affected Brady and pushed him to better understand himself and prioritize mental health.
“After Robin’s death, I got involved in certain groups, like Glenn Close’s organization, Bring Change to Mind, being very vocal about mental health,” Brady previously shared. “Once I opened that door to myself, I had to start learning about myself, and I had to start owning up to things that maybe I’d either repressed, suppressed, or just didn’t want to deal with.”
For Brady, embracing honesty—both publicly and privately—has become central to his role as a father, performer, and advocate, shaping not just who he is today, but the legacy he hopes to leave for the next generation.
