Michael Strahan Becomes a Grandpa as Daughter Welcomes Her First Child
Michael Strahan's family has just welcomed a new addition, with the TV host now embracing a heartwarming new role. The big news broke live during his latest broadcast.
The beloved "Good Morning America" anchor and former NFL star, Michael Strahan, has entered an exciting new chapter in his life — he's officially a grandfather! During the Fox NFL Sunday show on September 22, 2024, Michael, 51, shared the joyful news that his eldest daughter, Tanita Strahan, welcomed her first child, a baby boy named Onyx.
Tanita, a Los Angeles-based illustrator, is Michael's firstborn, whom he shares with his ex-wife, Wanda Hutchins. While further details about baby Onyx remain private, the news marks a heartwarming addition to the Strahan family.
Tanita, now 32, was born in Germany and spent much of her early life in Houston, Texas, before returning to Germany after her parents' divorce. She later moved to the United States during high school and pursued her passion for art, studying design and visual communication at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles.
Michael is also the proud father of three other children: son Michael Jr., 29, and twin daughters Sophia and Isabella Strahan, 19, whom he shares with his second wife, Jean Muggli.
The television personality often speaks fondly of his children. During an exclusive interview from 2016, the former professional football player expressed, "To me, it's all about family, now more than anything."
In November 2022, the NFL legend celebrated Tanita's 31st birthday with a sweet Instagram post. "Happy birthday to my first born @tanitaa.st 🎉🎊🍾. Please help me wish her the most amazing day. So proud of the person and artist you have become my baby. Proud to be your Dad❤️❤️❤️❤️," gushed Michael.
Tanita has largely kept her personal life private, but her recent milestone has drawn attention. Neither she nor Michael has shared any information about her baby's father yet. However, Tanita's social media activity hints at a long-term relationship with her boyfriend, Calenta Mincey.
Tanita Strahan and Calenta Mincey, as seen in a photo dated July 8, 2020 | Source: Instagram/calenta.cr
The oldest post featuring the couple dates back to July 2017, when Tanita shared a birthday tribute to Calenta, writing, "My other half, such an old soul and you're only turning 26!! You're amazing and I'm glad you're in my life! To many more 🥂 I love youuuu 😘 #happybirthday."
Later that year, in December 2017, she posted a picture with Calenta and other loved ones, captioning it simply, "Family ❤️."
Tanita and Calenta's most recent posts together were in May 2022, when the couple was seen posing comfortably next to each other. One photo showed Tanita painting while Calenta looked through a magazine or portfolio.
Earlier, in July 2020, the couple shared happy mirror selfies, which were part of a larger collection of photos featuring solo pictures of Tanita and nature shots.
Although little is known about Calenta, his social media shows that he is an artist, often sharing his passion for painting and sketching.
Calenta's posts feature acrylic works and illustrations that have earned admiration from friends and family.
Michael Strahan has always been open about his strong bond with his children, including Tanita. In a 2014 interview, he revealed more about her personality, noting the similarities between them.
"She's kind of like me in the sense that she has a very strong personality, but a silent strong personality. She's not going to be one to walk into a room and make it all about her. She definitely has an opinion and she's very smart and she knows what she wants, which I love about her," said Michael about his then-21-year-old daughter.
As Tanita embarks on her journey into motherhood, it remains to be seen how this new chapter will unfold for the close-knit Strahan family.