How Many Kids Does Wayne Brady Have? Getting to Know the Comedian’s Family
Wayne Brady is a comedian, actor, and television personality best known for starring on Whose Line Is It Anyway? and hosting Let’s Make a Deal. He also performed on Broadway and released music albums over his multi-decade career in show business. Off-screen, Wayne cherishes time with his only child. So how many kids does Wayne Brady have?
Brady has one daughter named Maile with his ex-wife, Mandie Taketa. Though Wayne and Mandie divorced in 2007, they remain committed to co-parenting 19-year-old Maile together in Los Angeles.
Wayne Brady’s Background
Before discussing his daughter Maile, let’s recap Wayne Brady’s entertainment career:
- Born June 2, 1972 in Columbus, Georgia and grew up near Orlando, Florida. Began doing improv and sketch comedy in Florida as a teenager.
- Landed a starring role on Whose Line Is It Anyway? in 1998 which introduced him to a mainstream audience.
- Hosted comedy improv show Let’s Make a Deal starting in 2009, adding a singing/dancing flair to the classic game show.
- Appeared on numerous other TV shows over the years including Everybody Hates Chris and The Bold and the Beautiful.
- Performed on Broadway in shows like Kinky Boots and Hamilton. Also released two R&B/pop albums in the 2000s.
Now onto Brady’s biggest role as a father.
Daughter Maile Masako Brady
Wayne Brady’s only child Maile Masako Brady was born on February 3, 2003 in Los Angeles. Her mother is Brady’s ex-wife Mandie Taketa.
Maile occasionally joins Wayne at red carpet events, but he tries to keep her mostly out of the spotlight. She is now 19 years old and interested in pursuing a career in the entertainment industry like her dad.
Wayne gushes that Maile is kind, smart, creative, and hardworking. He credits her for maturing him and inspiring him to work hard.
Co-Parenting After Divorce
Wayne Brady and college sweetheart Mandie Taketa married in 1999. Though the couple divorced in 2007, they remain fully committed to co-parenting Maile together.
In interviews, Brady and Taketa cite open, honest communication as the key. They also live near each other in LA.
Brady calls Maile his “greatest production” and purpose in life. Both parents aim to provide her with unconditional support.
Life as a Single Dad
While Wayne Brady’s career keeps him very busy, he goes to great lengths to be an involved, attentive father.
Maile lived with Wayne full-time as a child, which meant he had to balance parenting with the demands of fame. This gave him immense appreciation for single parents.
Brady emphasizes the importance of being fully present and engaged when spending time with Maile. He enjoys experiences like traveling and cooking together.
Supporting Maile’s Passions
As Maile has gotten older, Wayne Brady has encouraged her creative passions and independence.
She has joined him on set for projects and gained experience in entertainment. But her parents don’t push her to follow Wayne’s path.
Brady aims to lead by example when it comes to pursuing one’s dreams with dedication. He’s proud of the thoughtful young woman Maile has become.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wayne Brady’s Family
Here are some common questions people have about Wayne Brady’s daughter:
How many children does Wayne Brady have?
Wayne Brady has one daughter named Maile from his marriage to ex-wife Mandie Taketa.
How old is Maile Brady now?
Wayne Brady’s daughter Maile Masako Brady was born on February 3, 2003. She is currently 19 years old as of 2022.
What does Maile’s mother Mandie Taketa do?
Mandie Taketa is a dancer and actress who has appeared in minor acting roles. She met Wayne Brady in college at the University of Miami.
Did Maile ever live with her dad full-time?
Yes, Maile lived primarily with dad Wayne Brady after his divorce, though she now splits time with both parents.
Where do Wayne and Mandie co-parent Maile?
They live close to each other in the Los Angeles area which allows them to successfully co-parent and be involved.
In summary, comedian Wayne Brady is a devoted single father to 19-year-old daughter Maile, whom he co-parents with ex-wife Mandie Taketa. Brady relishes his daddy duty and supporting Maile’s dreams.