Not many people would call their ex-wife their greatest inspiration, but Wayne Brady isn't just any guy. In a candid interview with Closer Weekly, the 47-year-old entertainer opens up about how his ex-wife Mandie Taketa continues to inspire him. “I’m so inspired by Mandie, not just for her artistic brilliance, but for her sharp mind,” Wayne shares. “She’s my best friend, my production partner, and together, we created a beautiful daughter, Maile, who’s an incredible young woman.”
Wayne's positive attitude might be one of the reasons why he keeps getting hired time and again. When he's not busy hosting his 11th season of Let’s Make a Deal, he's guest-starring on Broadway in Lin-Manuel Miranda's revived hip-hop improv show Freestyle Love Supreme. On top of that, he's acting in three upcoming indie films, starring alongside his 16-year-old actress daughter Maile in The Bold and the Beautiful, performing stand-up comedy, and so much more. “Since I started on Whose Line Is It Anyway? back in 1998, I’ve been on TV every single year. I don’t take that for granted,” Wayne says with gratitude.
We caught up with this incredibly busy entertainer to talk about his dynamic career, what drives him, and why he believes you shouldn’t have any regrets.
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Scroll down for our full Q&A with Wayne!
What’s the Best Part of Hosting and Co-Executive Producing Let’s Make a Deal?
For Wayne, the most rewarding part of hosting and co-executive producing Let’s Make a Deal is the profound impact it has on people's lives. "The giving aspect is life-changing to so many people," he explains. "I hear stories from folks who watched the show during chemotherapy or shared it with loved ones who have passed away. There aren't many jobs on TV where you can bring laughter, love, and financial change to people's lives."
What’s Your Favorite Career Moment?
With such a diverse and accomplished career, Wayne has had countless highlights. Performing in Hamilton in Chicago in 2017 was definitely a standout moment. But there are so many others, like releasing his first record and receiving a Grammy nomination in 2009, or winning two Daytime Emmys for his variety and talk show. "I’ve been so fortunate to have so many incredible experiences," Wayne reflects. "I’m always amazed and grateful for everything that’s happened."
Winning an Emmy for Whose Line Is It Anyway?
Sharing the stage with comedy legends like Robin Williams and Whoopi Goldberg during Whose Line Is It Anyway? was an unforgettable experience for Wayne. "Being part of that show and working with such talented people was truly amazing," he recalls fondly.
