Colton Underwood, known for his stint on reality television, has embarked on a new chapter in his life as an author and father. The former Bachelor star and his husband, Jordan C. Brown, recently welcomed their son, Bishop, via surrogate in September 2024. As Underwood navigates the complexities of fatherhood, he reflects on how coming out as gay has profoundly influenced his journey.
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In an exclusive excerpt shared with PEOPLE ahead of the release of his audiobook, “Dear Bishop: A Letter To My Son,” Underwood discusses the liberating impact of coming out. He describes his revelation as “opening a door” not just for himself, but also for his son’s future. At 34 years old, the former reality star is candid about the internal struggles he faced – including shame, secrecy, and mental health challenges – before embracing his true self.
Underwood’s journey toward self-acceptance has been both challenging and transformative. In his audiobook, which is set for release on 19 May, he recounts the painstaking process of rebuilding his life and the unconditional love he now experiences as a father. “When I came out, I thought I was telling the world who I was. What I didn’t realise was that I was also opening a door for you – for the life that would come later,” he explains, acknowledging the integral role his husband played in their shared miracle of parenthood.
He goes on to express the profound shift in his perspective since becoming a father. No longer preoccupied with public perception, Underwood has redirected his focus to how he wishes his son to perceive him in the future. “Fatherhood stripped away whatever ego I had left,” he shares. “Suddenly, it wasn’t about how I was seen, but how you would see me.”
Throughout the letter, Underwood reflects on the early days of parenthood, describing it as a “crash course in grace.” He highlights the duality of time, where each of Bishop’s milestones brings him back to his own childhood experiences. This newfound awareness has enriched his life, making him appreciate the wonder of ordinary moments. “You’ve reminded me how to laugh at nothing, how to sit in silence, how to be amazed by the ordinary,” Underwood says, underscoring the healing power of love in his life.
Underwood’s motivation for writing the audiobook is clear. “I want you to know me – not the headlines, not the bachelor, not the label. Just your dad,” he affirms. Through his words, he hopes to impart lessons learned the hard way, emphasising that truth brings freedom and reinforcing his belief in miracles – a sentiment embodied in Bishop.
The couple’s journey into parenthood has been met with joy from fans and followers alike. Underwood frequently shares glimpses of their life as a family on social media, including a heartfelt caption accompanying an image of baby Bishop and the family together. “Our world is a million times better with you in it,” he wrote, expressing the overwhelming happiness their son has brought them.
In a recent interview, Underwood elaborated on Bishop’s rapid growth and personality. “There’s drool everywhere, open-mouth kisses,” he shared, describing the little one’s joyful exuberance. His fondness for light switches has brought laughter to the household, prompting speculation about what the future may hold for him.
As “Dear Bishop: A Letter To My Son” prepares for its release, fans and readers can eagerly await Underwood’s unique insights into fatherhood and self-identity. It stands as a testament to the transformative power of love and acceptance, illustrating how personal journeys can inspire and inform future generations.
Colton Underwood’s story, enriched by his experiences, offers a candid reflection on the trials of self-discovery, the joys of parenthood, and the unconditional love that can thrive in diverse family structures. As he embraces this new role, he remains committed to sharing his truth, providing a voice for others who may be on similar journeys toward acceptance and love.