Is Wayne Brady Gay? The Host Revealed He Is Pansexual and Single
Many people are curious if actor Wayne Brady is gay. The actor has come out as part of the LGBTQ+ community in a recent interview, candidly sharing his attraction to men despite being married twice.
Wayne Brady has recently opened up about being pansexual. He mentioned that a late comedian's death affected him and influenced his journey to self-discovery.
The "Let's Make a Deal" star has been married twice and has a daughter. In a recent interview, he shared his journey that has helped him fully understand and embrace his true self.
Wayne Brady at the 2022 American Music Awards on November 20, 2022, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Wayne Brady Admitted He is Pansexual
Wayne's journey to coming out as pansexual unfolded gradually, marked by transformative moments of self-discovery, thorough research, and reevaluating his life and mental well-being.
He said comedian Robin Williams' death in 2014 "impacted" him, which prompted him to dig deeper into himself. He joined groups that discussed mental health and later realized he wasn't truly happy as he struggled with self-love.
Even though he is successful in his acting career, he felt empty. Wayne went through therapy, including treatment for "love addiction," to address his struggle to find happiness and validation in others.
He eventually questioned his sexuality, leading to an internal conflict where he felt like a fraud. Despite having a supportive LGBTQ+ community of friends and relatives, he felt dishonest for not being open about his own identity.
Wayne had previously kept his personal life private, using it as an excuse to remain secretive. However, he realized the importance of breaking this pattern of shame and secrecy to accept and express his identity as pansexual fully.
He took time to understand his sexuality and do his research. For Wayne, being pansexual meant that he could be attracted to people regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Although he was married twice, Wayne admitted to having felt attracted to men at times, but because of his upbringing, he had to suppress these feelings. He said:
"I've always pushed that aside because of how I was raised, and because I live in today's world, and it's scary..."
He recalled learning early on that showing interest in men was wrong and was concerned about being teased. At the time, he felt unsure about his feelings and didn't want it to add to the bullying he faced.
Mandie Taketa, Wayne's ex-wife, was the first person he spoke to about his identity. Her response was supportive, simply saying, "Great." She believed his decision to come out would increase his happiness.
Wayne is among the celebrities who came out as part of the LGBTQ+ community, along with Lil Nas X, Frank Ocean, Joe Locke, and Tobie Donovan.
Wayne Brady Was Married Twice before Coming Out Pansexual
Wayne was first married to his wife, Diana Lasso, from 1993 to 1995. He described her as a "great person" and shared that their marriage taught him the value of patience and not rushing into things.
After Diana, Wayne tied the knot with his second wife, Mandie, in 1999. They separated in April 2006, a seven-year marriage, with their divorce finalized in 2008. Despite their split, Wayne and Mandie maintain a close friendship.
Wayne Brady and Mandie Taketa at the 54th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards on September 22, 2002, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Mandie has since found a new partner, but she and Wayne have maintained a strong relationship over the years, mainly due to their shared responsibility as co-parents to their daughter, Maile Masako Brady.
As for Wayne, he aims to be the "best dad" for Maile, the "best friend" to Mandie, and the "best son" to his own mother.
In 2019, Wayne said their successful co-parenting journey resulted from time passing and knowing when to prioritize what's best for everyone involved. He spoke highly of Mandie, calling her an amazing woman and an exceptional mother. He highlighted their daughter's positive impact on his life and career achievements.
Wayne Brady Embraces Singlehood While Prioritizing Work-Life Balance
Wayne has never dated a man or anyone else. In 2014, Wayne sparked dating rumors with TLC member Chilli when the pair was seen holding hands at a concert in Las Vegas. However, both Chilli and Wayne denied the dating speculation.
The actor remains single, committed to maintaining a work-life balance, a strategy he believes is essential for himself and others. He recalled how work consumed him from his mid-twenties to mid-thirties.
Wayne Brady speaks onstage during the 2022 American Music Awards on November 20, 2022, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
His desire to put in that much work was driven to establish a foundation for his family. However, he realized that neglecting his home life for work was counterproductive, leading to the end of his second marriage.
As for Wayne, he aims to be the "best dad" for Maile, the "best friend" to Mandie, and the "best son" to his own mother. Although single, he hopes to become the "best partner to someone" someday.