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Wayne Brady made headlines in August when he shared that he identifies as pansexual. He explained in an essay that he chose this label because it allows him to be attracted to people of various identities, including gay, straight, bi, transsexual, or non-binary. He first confided in his ex-wife, Mandie Taketa, with whom he has a daughter named Maile Masako. Taketa supported him and said she was glad he was taking this step for his own happiness.
Brady and Taketa ended their marriage in 2007 after eight years. Brady acknowledged that during his late twenties to mid-thirties, he was focused on building his career and wasn’t fully present as a partner, which contributed to their divorce. Despite this, they remain extremely close and consider each other best friends. Their bond is so strong that Brady plays a significant role in the life of Taketa’s child with her boyfriend.
In September 2021, Taketa and her boyfriend adopted a baby boy named Sunny, and Brady became Sunny’s godfather. He expressed his excitement about being called “Duncle” and being a positive presence in Sunny’s life. Brady also has a close relationship with Taketa’s boyfriend, Jason Fordham, whom he praised for his role in both Maile’s and Sunny’s lives.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Brady, Taketa, Maile, and Fordham made the decision to quarantine together. They emphasized that their co-parenting dynamic is unique but rooted in their shared commitment to prioritizing their daughter’s well-being. They view each other as best friends and collaborators, as they even have a business together. Despite the initial challenges of accepting Taketa’s new relationship, Brady has learned and grown from the experience, recognizing the importance of their continued closeness to their family.