Wayne Brady Says Life Got Better After Coming Out as Pansexual

Wayne Brady Says Life Got Better After Coming Out as Pansexual

Wayne Brady is opening up about how life has shifted since he publicly came out as pansexual — and says the experience has been freeing. The actor and comedian, who shared his sexual orientation in 2023, recently reflected on the change during a PEOPLE in 10 interview.

Brady, 53, explained that coming out hasn’t dramatically altered his personal life, noting that he isn’t suddenly dating publicly or making major lifestyle changes. “It hasn’t changed in the big sense of, ‘Oh I’m out dating and whatnot,’ because really, I’m kind of [keeping] to myself,” he said.

Instead, Brady shared that the biggest impact has been emotional and purposeful. He said being open about his identity allows him to live more honestly while also helping others who may be struggling with self-acceptance. Pansexuality refers to being attracted to people regardless of their gender identity or sex.

“I’m a believer in really trying to help the next generation,” Brady explained, adding that visibility can matter deeply to young people who feel ashamed or isolated. He specifically pointed to Black and brown kids growing up in communities where conversations about identity may feel especially difficult.

“If they see me and think, ‘Oh, that’s Wayne — and he just said what?’ maybe I can be verbal about myself,” Brady said. “So I don’t have to carry that rock.”

Brady added that his decision to come out wasn’t about attention, but about relief — and the hope that living authentically might make the path a little easier for someone else watching.