Kerry Washington is one of the most celebrated actresses of our time, but it wasn’t until recently that she learned one of the most important truths about herself: her father, Earl Washington, is not her biological father.
In her new memoir, Thicker Than Water, Washington shares the intimate story of her life, including the secret that was kept hidden for years. She writes about how she discovered the truth after she agreed to appear on the PBS series Finding Your Roots, which traces celebrities’ family histories through DNA testing.
Washington was shocked and confused when she learned that Earl was not her biological father. She had always known him as her dad, and she couldn’t understand why her parents had kept this secret from her for so long.
Her parents explained that they had used an anonymous sperm donor to conceive her after struggling with fertility issues. They had never told her the truth because they didn’t want her to feel different or rejected.
Washington struggled to come to terms with this new information. She felt betrayed and angry, but she also felt a deep sense of love for her parents. She realized that they had only wanted to protect her, and that they had always been there for her, unconditionally.
Woke up today sooooooo thankful to my beautiful parents for encouraging me (albeit sometimes reluctantly ?) on this journey of self discovery. Our shared truth has allowed us to cultivate more FREEDOM and a deeper love with each other. I am forever changed. And NOW, I’m super… pic.twitter.com/aqGihiryZb
In Thicker Than Water, Washington writes about the journey she took to understand her own identity and to find her place in the world. She explores the complex themes of family, belonging, and self-discovery. She also writes about the importance of forgiveness and the power of love.
In a recent interview with ABC’sRobin Roberts, Washington spoke about why she decided to write her memoir and to share her story. She said that by opening up on additional battles she’s faced, including her mental health issues, being sexually assaulted, an eating disorder and more, she’ll be able to will help others.
“I’ve never wanted to share my private life for the sake of fame or for the sake of attention — but I feel like this sharing is with purpose,” she said.
Washington’s discovery that she was not biologically related to Earl was just one of the many struggles she faced growing up. We also learned through her sit down with Roberts, that Kerry would often become “blind with rage” and set to “panic mode” growing up when people casually asked her three seemingly simple words: “How are you?”
“I didn’t know how to answer the question and be true to myself and also give them what they want to hear.”, she told Robin Roberts.
How Kerry Washington’s Contradictions Influenced Her Acting
Washington’s contradictions influenced her acting in a number of ways. She was drawn to roles that were complex and nuanced, like the role of Olivia Pope in the TV show Scandal. Pope was a powerful and intelligent woman, but she was also deeply flawed. She was capable of great love and compassion, but she was also ruthless and manipulative.
Washington was able to bring her own experiences and contradictions to the role of Olivia Pope. She understood the complexity of being a woman who is both strong and vulnerable. She also understood the challenges of coming from a home that faced its set of issues.
Washington’s performances have been praised by critics and audiences alike. She has won numerous awards for her work, including a Golden Globe Award and a Primetime Emmy Award. She is one of the most respected actresses working today.
Kerry Washington’s Story: The Impact
Washington’s story has had a profound impact on her life and on her work and is now an inspiration to us all. She is a powerful role model for anyone who has ever felt different or out of place. She is also a reminder that we are all connected, regardless of our bloodlines.
Profoundly moving and beautifully written, Thicker Than Water is a candid story of self-discovery from one of today’s most compelling and beloved public figures.
