Actress opens up about discovering her biological origins during interview on “TODAY.”
Kerry Washington shared a deeply personal moment during a recent appearance on TODAY, revealing how she learned that her father was not her biological parent. The actress, known for her role in Scandal, recounted how, after completing the show, she was already in a reflective phase of her life, contemplating her future and identity.
In the interview with Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager, Washington explained that her parents asked her to come home for an important conversation after she announced her intention to participate in the PBS show Finding Your Roots, which uncovers family histories through DNA testing. It was during this visit that her parents revealed the truth: Washington was born through a sperm donor, and her father, though she had always known him as such, was not her biological father.
The revelation was described by Washington as “shocking,” but in her memoir, Thicker Than Water, she mentions that, on some level, she had always suspected this truth. Despite the surprise, Washington acknowledged that part of her felt like she already knew, making the discovery a complex mix of emotions.
The actress reflected on how this new knowledge fit into her ongoing journey of self-discovery, especially in the context of her career and personal life. While the revelation changed her perspective on her origins, it also gave her a sense of clarity about her identity and her relationship with her parents. Washington noted how important it was to process this information in a meaningful way and how it shaped her approach to her family and her work.
Washington’s openness about this experience highlights her continued commitment to exploring personal truths and embracing vulnerability. She encouraged others to be open to discovering aspects of themselves they may not have previously understood, as it can lead to growth and deeper connections with their past.
Through her interview and memoir, Washington has once again shown how resilience and transparency can help navigate even the most unexpected and life-changing revelations. Her story serves as a reminder that family dynamics are complex, and understanding one’s identity often involves uncovering hidden pieces of the past.