Camryn Manheim jokes about unsuccessfully trying to make her son gay at awards ceremony
Actress Camryn Manheim told a Hollywood audience she attempted to raise her son as gay, but he identifies as straight.
At a recent Hollywood event honoring Marcia Gay Harden with the Human Rights Campaign 2026 Ally for Equity Award, Camryn Manheim made a tongue-in-cheek confession that she had tried to raise her son as gay. She described keeping photos of him in high heels and drag, and claimed she believed he would become homosexual, only to discover he is the sole straight participant in his musical-theatre group. Manheim contrasted her experience with Harden’s comments that all three of her children identify as queer.
The speech also referenced a past anecdote about receiving a package of red patent-leather boots for Harden’s son. The comments sparked discussion about parenting and sexual orientation in the entertainment industry.
Why it matters
The remarks highlight how celebrity discussions of sexuality can influence public perceptions of parenting and LGBTQ issues.
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