GMA’s Robin Roberts explains why she was ‘afraid’ to come out as gay publicly

Renowned Good Morning America co-anchor Robin Roberts has opened up about her journey of coming out publicly in 2013, 

revealing that fear played a significant role in her initial hesitation. In a recent episode of The Jamie Kern Lima Show podcast, Roberts, now 63, reflected on the concerns 

that held her back, particularly the intersection of her Christian faith and her identity as a gay woman.

Fear of Impacting Good Morning America

Roberts, who married her longtime partner Amber Laign in September 2023, 

admitted that she was initially apprehensive about the impact her coming out might have—not just on herself, but on the ABC morning show she has co-anchored since 2005.

“It’s not the Robin Roberts Show, it’s Good Morning America,” she explained. “And there are so many people whose livelihoods depend on the success of our show. And so, if I do something that hurts the show, that hurts them.”

The veteran journalist was concerned about how audiences and network executives would react, acknowledging that her position as a high-profile television personality made the situation more complex.

Balancing Faith and Identity

Beyond her professional fears, Roberts also struggled with personal doubts stemming from her Christian faith. She shared that she was afraid of being rejected by those who believed that being gay and being a Christian were incompatible.

“I would walk down the street with Amber, and if somebody saw us, I would introduce her. I wasn’t trying to hide, but yet, I wasn’t ready to fully…” she admitted before revealing a previously unspoken reason for her hesitation.

“Part of it is because of my Christianity,” she said. “I was afraid that people… they think you can’t be gay and a Christian. And I am. I am, and I was so fearful that I would be shunned.”

Her faith has always been an important part of her life, and the idea that she might be ostracized from her religious community weighed heavily on her.

Finding Support and Acceptance

Despite her fears, Roberts found unexpected support from the very community she thought might reject her. After publicly acknowledging her relationship with Laign, she received a heartfelt letter from the National Office of the Presbyterian Church, affirming their support for her.

The letter was a turning point for Roberts, who then realized how much unnecessary worry she had carried for years. “Then I think about all those years I wasted, worried, needless worry,” she reflected. “You know everything about me. And I have nothing to hide and to still be, still be embraced. I am blessed and highly favored. And I’m so grateful.”

This overwhelming support reassured Roberts that she could live her truth without fear, and it only strengthened her resolve to be an advocate for authenticity and acceptance.

A Love Story Two Decades in the Making

Roberts and Laign’s relationship has spanned nearly two decades. The couple first met in 2005 after being introduced on a blind date, and their bond only grew stronger over the years. Though they lived separately for most of their relationship due to Roberts’ demanding schedule, they remained deeply committed to one another.

In September 2023, they tied the knot in an intimate backyard ceremony at their Connecticut home, surrounded by loved ones. Roberts shared the joyous occasion on Instagram, writing, “An intimate, magical wedding ceremony in our backyard followed by a joyous reception… ohhhh the dancing!!”

The wedding was a celebration of their enduring love and a testament to the journey they had navigated together, from private romance to public commitment.

A Trailblazing Career

Roberts has had a storied career in broadcast journalism, beginning as a sports anchor for ESPN, where she worked for 15 years before transitioning to Good Morning America. She was the first African American journalist to join the sports network and made a lasting impact with her work on NFL PrimeTime and SportsCenter.

Since joining GMA in 2005, she has become one of the most trusted and beloved figures in morning television. Her resilience, honesty, and willingness to share her personal struggles—including her battles with cancer and myelodysplastic syndrome—have made her an inspiration to millions.

Embracing Her Truth

Roberts’ decision to come out publicly was not an easy one, but looking back, she recognizes that living authentically has only enriched her life. By sharing her story, she hopes to encourage others who may be struggling with their identity, faith, or fears of acceptance.

Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that love and faith are not mutually exclusive and that living in truth is the most liberating choice of all.

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