Wayne Brady Shares How Coming Out as Pansexual Enhanced His Parenting Journey

Wayne Brady.
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Sonja Flemming/CBS via Getty

NEED TO KNOW

• Wayne Brady opened up about how his life has transformed since coming out as pansexual.
• The 53-year-old actor and comedian noted that his decision has enhanced multiple aspects of his life, including his role as a parent.
• Brady publicly came out as pansexual in 2023.

Wayne Brady is sharing insights into the positive changes in his life following his declaration of pansexuality. In a recent interview with PEOPLE, the veteran actor and comedian reflected on his journey since coming out in 2023.

Brady expressed optimism, stating that life has improved since he embraced his authentic self, and he hopes his openness will inspire others. “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,” he said.

He emphasized the importance of representation, particularly for young individuals facing self-doubt. “I’m a believer in really trying to help the next generation. 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, and if they’re familiar with me, like, ‘Oh, that’s Wayne. And he just said what? Maybe I can be verbal about myself. So I don’t have to carry that rock,’” he noted.

Wayne Brady and daughter Maile Masako Brady in 2024.

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Brady shared that he feels a sense of liberation following his announcement. “I feel lighter, because I’m me. 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,” he stated.

The actor, who is a father to 22-year-old Maile Masako Brady, elaborated on his personal revelations during his journey of self-discovery. “I am pansexual,” he remarked, explaining that his attraction transcends traditional gender boundaries. “Bisexual — with an open mind!” he added with humor.

Brady described pansexuality as an attraction to individuals regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. “For me, ‘pan’ means being attracted to anyone who identifies as gay, straight, bi, transsexual, or non-binary. Being able to be attracted across the board,” he said.

Wayne Brady hosting ‘Let’s Make a Deal’ on CBS.

Sonja Flemming/CBS via Getty

The actor’s reflections on his journey are rooted in a broader exploration of mental health, which he began following the passing of his friend and fellow performer Robin Williams in 2014. “Once I opened that door to myself, though, 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 wanna deal with,” Brady explained. Now, he aspires to be the “most Wayne Brady” he can be.