Marlon Wayans opens up about transgender child Kai and says he went through ‘five stages of grief’ to get to ‘acceptance’

Marlon Wayans opens up about transgender child Kai and says he went through 'five stages of grief' to get to 'acceptance'

As a dedicated follower who deeply appreciates the power of love and acceptance, I find Marlon Wayans to be an inspiring figure. His journey with his transgender child Kai is a testament to the strength of family bonds and the transformative power of unconditional love.


On the Jennifer Hudson Show, airing on Tuesday, Marlon Wayans discussed openly his experience as a father with his transgender daughter, Kai.

52-year-old actor from “Scary Movie” shared back in November that his oldest child identifies as transgender, expressing it this way: “I now have a son who was previously my daughter.

Talking about his adjustment to Kai’s transformation, a loving Wayans expressed that Kai remains the same kid as before – he simply grew a beard now. Essentially, it’s still the same baby.

The father of three – who is also dad to son Shawn, 22 and daughter Axl, 21 months added: ‘Those are my babies. I went through the five stages of grief to get to the beautiful, magical place called acceptance.’

Reflecting on my recent experience, I realized I’ve discovered an unexpected strength within myself. What’s more, I’ve come to understand how my loved ones – my siblings – have shaped me into a pillar of support for our family.

Marlon Wayans opens up about transgender child Kai and says he went through 'five stages of grief' to get to 'acceptance'

In the last few years, the star has been dealing with deep sorrow as he lost both his parents, just three years apart.

In July 2020, Elvira Alethia passed away at the age of 81, and in April 2023, Howell Stouten followed suit at the age of 86.

As a fervent admirer, I can relate to the profound experience he shared. It felt as if an overwhelming wave of understanding swept over me at a single moment, a universal acceptance. Once I embraced this truth, I surrendered myself, finding solace in a higher power. Miraculously, everything seemed to fall into place and, surprisingly, it even got better.

Previously, Wayans mentioned that he entered a time of introspection upon discovering his oldest child was transitioning.

The Requiem for a Dream actor shared with People on Friday that within just one week, I experienced more personal growth than I ever have throughout my entire life.

He added that he went from ‘defiance to acceptance’ during that time. 

Marlon emphasized, ‘I grasp the essence of children and the profoundness of unselfish affection. Ultimately, what truly touches my core is ensuring my child’s happiness.’

Apart from this, he mentioned that he includes Kai’s journey of gender transition in his new comedy act, intending to offer more than just amusement – he wants to educate as well.

Marlon Wayans opens up about transgender child Kai and says he went through 'five stages of grief' to get to 'acceptance'

He shared that he has an understanding with his children: “Regardless of what you choose in life, understand that there might be instances where I’ll find something amusing about it and discuss it,” he clarified, mentioning that Kai is comfortable with his father sharing aspects of their personal lives during performances.

Marlon too acknowledged that his stand-up act would not delve into the contentious custody battle he’s having with his ex, Moreland.

He clarified that he avoids open disputes, “It’s not necessary for you and I to be allies for a child to live harmoniously. Each child merits a peaceful environment to flourish.

In November 2023, for the first time, Marlon revealed Kai’s gender identity as transgender during a chat on The Breakfast Club radio show.

‘My child, previously known as Amai, has transitioned and is now identified as Kai. Therefore, I discuss the transition process.’

Instead of focusing on their transformation, I want to emphasize my own journey as a parent, progressing from a state of ignorance and denial to embracing and accepting them completely with an unconditional love.

During an interview on a New York radio station, Wayans expressed his hope that his future comedy act might offer support to other parents dealing with their children’s transitions.

He added: ‘I think there’s a lot of parents out there that need that message and I know I’m dealing with it. 

Marlon Wayans opens up about transgender child Kai and says he went through 'five stages of grief' to get to 'acceptance'
Marlon Wayans opens up about transgender child Kai and says he went through 'five stages of grief' to get to 'acceptance'

‘It was a very painful situation for me but, man, it’s one of the best hours I could ever imagine.’ 

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I’m proud to say that while I might trip up now and then with the correct pronoun, I stand shoulder-to-shoulder with my son, Kai, each and every step he takes.

In our conversation, I found myself tripping over pronouns while chatting with the amazing actor from Little Man. They seemed to interchangeably use ‘they,’ ‘he,’ and ‘she,’ which I noticed could use some polishing. It’s a challenge they’ve acknowledged and I have no doubt will work on!

In his own words, Wayans expressed, “They are aware. They understand that I care deeply for them. When they observe my efforts, their response is often, ‘I am content’,” he stated.

The screenwriter revealed that any misunderstandings he previously held regarding the transgender community vanished swiftly upon learning that his child identified as transgender.

In line with his feelings, Wayans expressed that he would always embrace and love his oldest son just the way he is, without any conditions.

In an enthusiastic tone, he expressed: “I must honor their desires. As a parent, all I yearn for is my children’s freedom – freedom of their spirits, minds, and individuality.

‘The more you know yourself, the more you live your truth, the happier your existence.’

In conversation with DJ Envy, Charlamagne Tha God, and Lauren LaRosa, the comedian expressed it this way: ‘If they can’t find that level of self-assurance in a household with both their father and mother, how am I supposed to equip them for the world with that kind of confidence?’

‘I’m just so proud of them for being them – but that don’t mean that I ain’t got jokes.’

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2024-09-17 19:19

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