Game show host Wayne Brady recently revealed to People Magazine that he is pansexual.
Brady, who is best known for his work on the game show, “Let’s Make a Deal,” took some time to reflect on his identity and decided that being pansexual was the best way to describe his attractions.
GLAAD, an LGBTQ advocacy nonprofit, defines pansexual as “a person who has the capacity to form enduring physical, romantic, and/ or emotional attractions to any person, regardless of gender identity.”
Speaking to People, Brady explained how he felt this term was best for him to describe himself. “I couldn’t say if I was bisexual, because I had to really see what that was, especially because I really have not gotten a chance to act on anything,” he said.
A variety of reactions from Brady’s closest family members have been revealed. His ex-wife Mandie Taketa said, “I just said, ‘Great.’ As I knew coming out would help him be happier.” His 20-year-old daughter, Maile Brady, added “I just said, ‘Okay.’”
Brady also discussed challenging the norms he was raised with. He discussed how he had previously had feelings of attraction to men but had pushed them aside due to his upbringing and fear of judgment.
“What’s the fastest way to hurt another man? I’m gonna call you out of your name. I’m gonna call you gay. I’m gonna emasculate you. I’m gonna use the F-word. I learned that very early from the people around me, they’re like, “Oh, so those are bad things? Yeah. You, you don’t wanna be that.”
It’s admirable that Brady has taken the time to do the research and be honest and open about his identity with the public. Too often, people are ashamed to be open and honest about their identities due to fear of judgment or reprisal.
Hopefully, Brady’s announcement will help normalize pansexuality and make it easier for others to share their identities.