Wayne Brady, a celebrated actor and entertainer, is inviting audiences into his world like never before with “Wayne Brady: The Family Remix,” a brand-new reality series set to premiere on Freeform. This eight-episode season offers an intimate portrait of Brady’s unconventional yet deeply loving blended family, navigating both personal and professional crossroads, culminating in his public declaration of identifying as pansexual.
Brady’s family is far from traditional, and that’s precisely what makes them so compelling. At the heart of it is Mandie Taketa, Brady’s ex-wife, but also his steadfast best friend and business partner. Their 21-year-old daughter, Maile Brady, is a central figure, alongside Taketa’s life partner, Jason Michael Fordham, who shares history with Brady as a former backup dancer. Rounding out this vibrant mix is Sundance-Isamu, Taketa and Fordham’s young adopted son. This close-knit circle, which might raise eyebrows for some, is simply “family” for Brady and those within it.
From left, Maile Brady, Wayne Brady, Mandie Taketa and Jason Michael Fordham sit together for a portrait
The concept of “Wayne Brady: The Family Remix” emerged organically from the family’s viral TikTok dances during the Covid-19 pandemic. Their online presence sparked conversations, with some questioning the authenticity of such close ex-partner relationships, while others were captivated by their co-parenting dynamic. For Brady and Taketa, however, this unique arrangement is simply their everyday reality. Taketa emphasizes their community-based upbringing in Hawaii as a foundation for their inclusive family values, where loving and supporting those who care for you is natural. Brady echoes this sentiment, highlighting that his understanding of family expanded when he joined Mandie’s family, learning the true meaning of unconditional love and acceptance. He emphasizes that family is “the family that you choose.”
Initially approached for a sitcom based on their lives, Brady and Taketa felt the scripts failed to capture the genuine humor and depth of their real experiences. Taking creative control as executive producers of “The Family Remix,” they aimed to authentically portray their multiracial family and the unwavering bond that holds them together. This profound sense of acceptance and love within his family has been instrumental in Brady’s journey of self-discovery, allowing him to embrace his sexuality and come to terms with his pansexuality.
Brady’s journey to self-acceptance culminated in his public coming out, but it was a conversation years in the making. He first shared his truth with Taketa a decade prior. Her initial reaction was one of joy and support, focused on nurturing this aspect of his identity in a healthy way. While also acknowledging concerns for his public image as a Black man in America, Taketa’s support deepened her love and respect for Brady. For Brady, identifying solely as bisexual felt “too limiting,” and it was through discussions with his daughter, Maile, that he gained a deeper understanding of the spectrum of sexuality and the term “pansexuality.” Maile’s open-minded and accepting reaction further solidified Brady’s comfort in embracing his true self. Maile explained her nonplussed reaction to her father’s coming out, emphasizing their family’s open communication style regarding sexuality and queerness.
Jason Fordham expressed immense pride in Brady’s decision to share his authentic self with the world, offering his unwavering support. Fordham noted Brady’s inherent freedom on stage and his hope for Brady to experience that same liberation in his personal life. Bringing such a personal aspect of his life into the public eye through “The Family Remix” felt like a natural and authentic step for Brady.
Brady explained the confluence of factors that led to his public coming out at this point in his life. He expressed regret for not sharing this part of himself with his late grandmother, Valerie, who was a maternal figure to him. He also felt a responsibility to be a role model for young individuals, particularly young Black men and theater kids, who might look to him for inspiration. Turning 50 served as a catalyst for Brady to prioritize his own happiness and embrace the freedom to love whomever he chooses.
Acknowledging the public nature of his career, Brady recognized that sharing his pansexuality was essential for living authentically. He wanted to have the freedom to appear in public with any partner, regardless of gender identity, without causing speculation or misinterpretations. Brady felt empowered to come out fully because of the unwavering support of his family, the very individuals sharing their lives alongside him in “Wayne Brady: The Family Remix.” The show, therefore, becomes a platform for not only showcasing a unique family dynamic but also for sharing a deeply personal journey of self-acceptance and celebrating love in all its forms.
