Marlon Wayans has always been open about his experiences as a father, but his journey with his transgender child has taught him some of the most profound lessons about love, acceptance, and respect.
In an interview on Michelle Obama’s Podcast IMO, where Damon and Marlon Wayans appeared, Marlon shared how his child’s transition not only deepened his understanding of unconditional love but also led to the loss of people in his life who weren’t ready to embrace the change.
Marlon explained that when his child first began their transition, he went through a personal transformation of his own, moving from denial to full acceptance.
“It took me a week to get there,” he admitted. “What I learned as a parent is for you to stop loving your child because of their choice and their life, that’s a poor reflection on you.”
He went on to share how some people in his life distanced themselves, using their beliefs as a reason to criticize his support for his child.
“I am NOT here to judge, I am NOT God. Only God can judge,” Marlon shared.
The actor also expressed how, no matter the criticism or loss of fans, he would always stand by his child.
“If that’s a mistake and we get to heaven and God don’t let my child in, I’m going to shave a beard and sneak them in through the back,” he joked. “I’m a father, and I’m always going to defend them. I’m always going to protect them. I’m always going to respect them. There’s nothing anybody could ever tell me.”
Michelle Obama acknowledged the challenge of changing long-held ways of thinking, especially when it comes to understanding new pronouns and names.
“It’s like going to your grandmother and expecting them to learn a new language overnight,” she said. “It’s a mutual patience with the process.”
For Marlon, the essence of it all is simple: “Are you a good person?” He shared that regardless of gender or sexuality, what truly matters is being kind-hearted, respectful, and intelligent. He believes the true measure of a person lies in their character, not their gender identity.
“We’ve sacrificed a lot over this issue,” Michelle Obama said. “It’s all about realizing that we got to love people how they come to us, period.” For him, divisiveness and hatred are at the core of bad behavior, and it’s crucial to show love and support for everyone, regardless of their identity.”
At the end of the day, Marlon’s message is about unconditional love and support for his child, and for others who may not always fit the traditional mold.
“That’s my baby, and I’ll fight with them to the end, period,” he said.
Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com
