Robin Roberts has opened up about her decision to come out publicly in 2013, 

sharing that she initially struggled with fear—particularly regarding how it would be received within her faith community. 

The Good Morning America co-anchor, now 63, recently spoke about her journey on The Jamie Kern Lima Show podcast, 

offering insight into her concerns at the time and how she ultimately found peace with her decision.

The Fear of Coming Out Publicly

While Roberts had been in a long-term relationship with Amber Laign, whom she married in September 2023, she hesitated to publicly share details about her personal life for years. 

One major factor was her position on Good Morning America (GMA). She explained that her decision wasn’t just about her—she worried about the potential impact it could have on the network and her colleagues.

*”It’s not the ‘Robin Roberts Show,’ it’s Good Morning America,” she said, emphasizing that she was conscious of how many people’s livelihoods depended on the show’s success. “And so, if I do something that hurts the show, that hurts them.”

In addition to professional concerns, Roberts admitted that she feared how people would perceive her as both a Christian and a gay woman.

“I was afraid that people, they think you can’t be gay and a Christian. And I am,” she shared. “I was so fearful that I would be shunned.”

Living Openly, Yet Hesitant to Fully Share

Though Roberts wasn’t actively hiding her relationship, she had not made an official statement about it. She recalled walking in public with Laign and introducing her openly to others but still holding back when it came to sharing her identity with a larger audience.

“I wasn’t trying to hide, but yet, I wasn’t ready to fully [come out],” she admitted.

For years, she grappled with the misconception that being a person of faith and being part of the LGBTQ+ community could not coexist. However, when she finally did come out, she was met with an outpouring of support, including a particularly touching message from the Presbyterian Church.

Finding Comfort and Support from the Church

After Roberts publicly shared her truth, she received a letter from the National Office of the Presbyterian Church, expressing full support for her. This heartfelt message reassured her that she had nothing to fear all along.

“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 embraced. I am blessed and highly favored. And I’m so grateful.”

A Love Story That Led to Marriage

Roberts and Laign have been together for nearly two decades, and in September 2023, they tied the knot in an intimate ceremony at their Connecticut home. The GMA star shared moments from their wedding day on Instagram, describing the event as “magical” and filled with “joyous dancing.”

She posted photos of herself and Laign in elegant white wedding dresses, holding hands and celebrating their long-awaited union.

“An intimate, magical wedding ceremony in our backyard followed by a joyous reception… ohhhh the dancing!!” she wrote in the caption, capturing the happiness of their special day.

A Pioneering Career in Broadcasting

Roberts has long been a trailblazer in journalism. Before joining Good Morning America in 2005, she spent 15 years as a sports anchor for ESPN, becoming the first African American journalist to work at the network. During her tenure, she contributed to NFL PrimeTime and hosted SportsCenter, earning widespread recognition for her insightful reporting.

Her transition to morning television made her one of the most beloved broadcasters in America. Throughout her career, she has openly shared her personal struggles, including her battles with cancer and myelodysplastic syndrome, using her platform to inspire others.

Embracing Her Truth

Now, Roberts is fully embracing her identity and using her story to encourage others who may be facing similar fears. She hopes that by sharing her experiences, she can help break down barriers and show that being part of the LGBTQ+ community and having faith are not mutually exclusive.

“I am blessed and highly favored,” she said, reflecting on the support she has received. “And I’m so grateful.”

Roberts’ journey is a testament to the power of living authentically. Despite the fears that once held her back, she has found love, acceptance, and happiness—both personally and professionally.

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