Wayne Brady has two ex-wives: Diana Lasso and Mandie Taketa. The award-winning entertainer, comedian, actor, and television host has experienced two marriages that ended in divorce, but his relationship with his second ex-wife, Mandie Taketa, has become one of the most admired examples of modern co-parenting in Hollywood.
While his first marriage was short-lived, Wayne and Mandie built a unique family structure after their separation. Their continued friendship, teamwork, and commitment to their children have made their post-divorce relationship stand out.
Diana Lasso: First Wife
Wayne Brady’s first wife was singer-songwriter Diana Lasso.
The couple married on New Year’s Eve in 1993, before Wayne became a major television star. At the time, he was still building his career in entertainment and had not yet reached widespread fame through shows such as Whose Line Is It Anyway?
Their marriage lasted less than two years before ending in divorce.
Years later, Wayne reflected on the relationship and explained that they were very young when they married and were still learning about themselves. The short marriage became an important personal experience as he continued developing both his career and identity.
Marriage To Mandie Taketa
Wayne Brady married his second wife, Mandie Taketa, in April 1999.
Mandie is a dancer, actor, producer, and fitness professional who has also worked behind the scenes in entertainment.
The couple welcomed their daughter, Maile Masako Brady, in February 2003. Family became a central part of Wayne’s life as his career continued growing through television, comedy, and acting.
Although Wayne and Mandie separated in 2006, their divorce was not finalized until 2008.
A Different Kind Of Divorce
Unlike many celebrity divorces that lead to public conflicts, Wayne Brady and Mandie Taketa developed a strong friendship after ending their marriage.
The two remained close friends, business partners, and supportive co-parents. Their ability to separate their romantic relationship from their family responsibilities became an example of how former spouses can maintain a healthy connection.
Wayne has often spoken highly of Mandie and the important role she continues to play in his life.
The “Core Four”
Wayne Brady and Mandie Taketa created a unique blended family arrangement that they refer to as the “Core Four.”
The group includes:
- Wayne Brady
- Mandie Taketa
- Their daughter Maile Masako Brady
- Mandie’s partner Jason Michael Fordham
The family dynamic also includes Jason’s adopted son, Sundance-Isamu.
Rather than following a traditional family structure, they have focused on cooperation, respect, and supporting each other. Their approach has attracted attention because of the way they prioritize family connection over conventional expectations.
Reality Show
Their unusual but positive family relationship became the inspiration for the reality series “Wayne Brady: The Family Remix.”
The show explores their daily lives, family relationships, and the way they navigate parenting and personal connections after divorce.
It gives viewers a look at how Wayne, Mandie, and their extended family work together while managing careers, responsibilities, and emotional challenges.
Mandie’s Support
Wayne Brady has credited Mandie Taketa as one of the most important people in his life.
Although they are no longer married, he has described her as a soulmate and one of his closest confidantes.
Wayne has openly discussed his struggles with severe depression and the importance of having a strong support system. He has also shared personal aspects of his identity journey, including publicly coming out as pansexual.
Throughout these experiences, he has recognized Mandie’s support and understanding.
Wayne Brady’s Career
Wayne Brady became one of America’s most recognizable entertainers through his work in comedy, television, and music.
He gained widespread popularity as a performer on Whose Line Is It Anyway?, where his quick improvisation skills made him a fan favorite.
He later hosted The Wayne Brady Show, appeared in television and film projects, and became a successful Broadway performer.
His career has earned him multiple awards, including Emmy recognition for his work in entertainment.
Fatherhood Comes First
Despite his busy career, Wayne Brady has consistently emphasized the importance of being a present father.
His daughter Maile has also developed interests in entertainment, following a creative path influenced by both of her parents.
Wayne and Mandie’s shared commitment to raising Maile has remained the foundation of their relationship after divorce.
Wayne Brady has two ex-wives: Diana Lasso and Mandie Taketa.
His marriage to Diana ended in the 1990s after a short period, while his relationship with Mandie evolved into a lasting friendship and successful co-parenting partnership after their divorce.
Today, Wayne and Mandie are recognized for creating a supportive blended family that challenges traditional ideas about relationships after marriage ends. Their “Core Four” approach demonstrates how respect, communication, and shared responsibility can continue long after a couple separates.
