Renowned comedian and actor Wayne Brady has opened up about his identity as pansexual, a term that signifies the capacity to experience romantic, sexual, or emotional attraction to individuals regardless of their gender. In an interview with People magazine, Brady described his pansexuality as having an open mindset akin to bisexuality.
Wayne Brady, 51, is widely recognized for his role in the sketch comedy show “Whose Line is it Anyway?” and as the host of CBS’ “Let’s Make A Deal.” He also had his own talk show, “The Wayne Brady Show,” during the early 2000s.
During his candid conversation with People, Brady revealed that he first confided in his ex-wife, Mandie Taketa, about his pansexuality. Taketa responded with support, emphasizing that his happiness was of utmost importance. Brady and Taketa, 47, share a 20-year-old daughter named Maile.
For Brady, pansexuality encompasses the ability to be attracted to individuals regardless of their gender identity, including those who identify as gay, straight, bisexual, transsexual, or non-binary. He explained that being pansexual means being able to connect with the person who exists beyond labels.
The interview also delved into Brady’s personal journey with therapy and mental health. After the passing of Robin Williams in 2014, Brady began speaking openly about mental well-being. He shared that he engaged in therapy to address love addiction, reflecting on his quest for happiness through various relationships.
Despite his realization of being attracted to men, Brady initially questioned if he was gay. However, he ultimately determined that his identity was pansexual. He acknowledged suppressing his feelings due to societal upbringing and fears about how his sexuality would be perceived.
Brady expressed that he had always been surrounded by a supportive LGBTQ+ community, including friends, colleagues, and relatives. Despite this, he felt a sense of inauthenticity until he embraced his true self.
Initially, Brady believed that his pansexuality was not something that needed to be publicized. However, his decision to share his journey has sparked conversations about pansexuality and its significance.
The term “pansexual” is described by the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) as referring to individuals who can form deep and enduring attractions to people irrespective of their gender identity. This term is part of the bi+ umbrella, which encompasses various identities within the spectrum of attraction and orientation.
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