Wayne Brady has recently revealed that he became a father for the second time earlier this year, a fact he kept under wraps until now. The 52-year-old actor and comedian, known for his work on “Let’s Make a Deal,” has a 21-year-old daughter named Maile with his ex-wife, Mandi Taketa. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Brady had a brief relationship with a woman named Tina, which resulted in the birth of his son, Val Henry.
Brady expressed his surprise upon learning about the pregnancy, stating, “I was shocked. I asked the silly question that I think many men since the beginning of time have asked. ‘How?’ You know how! So get past it.” The news came shortly after he returned from his grandmother’s funeral, a moment that added to the emotional weight of the revelation. The couple decided to name their son after Brady, a gesture that signifies the bond they share.
In his new role as a father, Brady is determined to ensure that Val feels as loved and accepted as Maile did growing up. He emphasized the importance of not allowing his son to feel any shame about his existence. “I never want Val to grow up thinking that he should be ashamed or look back and go, ‘Oh, my dad didn’t want me,’ or he was ashamed of me,” he said. “Because I want him, in his own way, to know that I love him as much as I love Maile.”
Maile, who has been supportive of her father’s new journey, views the addition of her brother as an opportunity for growth within the family. She shared her perspective, saying, “I learned this phrase: ‘Not my circus, not my monkeys,’ and I was like, ‘All right, cool. Have fun with that. I am 21 now. It’s not my baby. This is kind of an opportunity for all of us to grow up and see how that dynamic works as individuals.”
Brady’s relationship with Taketa has remained amicable since their divorce in 2008. They have worked hard to co-parent Maile effectively, and their commitment to maintaining a positive relationship has been a source of inspiration for many. In interviews, Brady has often highlighted the importance of teamwork in co-parenting, stating that it requires mutual commitment and effort to navigate the challenges that arise.
Their journey as co-parents has been marked by a unique bond that has allowed them to support each other through various life events. During the pandemic, they even lived together to provide stability for Maile as she transitioned from high school to college. This arrangement showcased their dedication to family, despite the complexities of their past relationship.
In addition to his role as a father, Brady has also embraced the title of “Duncle” to Taketa’s son, Sundance, whom she shares with her partner, Jason Fordham. This term reflects his commitment to being involved in Sundance’s life, further demonstrating the strength of their blended family dynamic.
Brady’s openness about his personal life extends beyond fatherhood. He has recently come out as pansexual, a revelation that has sparked conversations about identity and acceptance. In interviews, he has shared his journey of self-discovery, explaining that it took time for him to understand and embrace his sexuality. He expressed gratitude for the support he received from Taketa during this process, noting that she was the first person he confided in about his identity.
As Brady navigates his new role as a father to Val and continues to support Maile and Sundance, he remains focused on creating a loving and nurturing environment for all his children. He believes that parenting is a lifelong commitment that transcends romantic relationships, and he is dedicated to ensuring that his children feel valued and cherished.
Brady’s story serves as a reminder that families can take many forms, and love can flourish in unexpected ways. His journey as a father, co-parent, and individual navigating his identity is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of maintaining strong connections, regardless of the circumstances.
As he embarks on this new chapter of fatherhood, Wayne Brady’s commitment to his children and his willingness to embrace change will undoubtedly shape the lives of his family for years to come.
Source: People, Entertainment Tonight
