In a heartwarming announcement featured in this week’s cover story of PEOPLE, Karamo Brown, known for his role on ‘Queer Eye,’ has revealed he is set to become a grandfather. His son, Jason, is expecting a baby boy in September, marking a significant milestone in the father-son duo’s journey together.
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Brown’s path to fatherhood began 17 years ago when he received unexpected court papers regarding back child support. At the time, he discovered he had a son, Jason, born from a brief relationship with a high school friend, Stephanie. Reflecting on that moment, Brown noted the difficulties he faced connecting with his son during a period marked by his struggles with depression and mental health challenges. He recalled, “I had started identifying as gay at 15. Losing contact with Jason’s mother meant I had no way of knowing I had a child.”
The year 2006 was pivotal for Brown, who was just beginning to emerge from a debilitating mental health crisis that had led him to attempt suicide. Following his recovery, which took place with the support of his mother, Charmaine, and friend Tré, he was astonished when news of his son came to light. That moment led him to a transformative meeting with Jason, then nine years old, which Brown described as healing: “The minute I saw him, something in me healed. I understood my purpose.”
With support from Jason’s mother, Brown gained full custody soon after. He credits parenthood with saving his life, saying, “My son saved my life, 1,000 percent. Because he existed, it made me realise what was bigger in life. Family has always been so important to me.” His relationship with Jason has flourished over the years, and the two share a deep bond.
Looking ahead, Brown is eager to embrace his new title as ‘grandzaddy.’ Observing how Jason will raise his own child, Brown jokes, “He’s going to hate seeing me deal with his son because I’m not going to be strict at all.” He added that as the family prepares for the arrival of the baby, he envisions his role shifting from a strict father to a more relaxed and fun grandfather.
The anticipation of the baby’s arrival has already prompted Brown to indulge in some early gift shopping. He humorously remarked on how social media has influenced him: “Instagram’s the devil, y’all…The minute they say yes, I buy it. That’s the grandzaddy I am.” His excitement is palpable as he imagines being spoiling his grandchild without the responsibilities of discipline.
Brown also shared his commitment to maintaining his sobriety, which has become even more important now that he has two generations looking up to him. After facing struggles with substance use during his time on ‘Queer Eye’, he found renewed determination in the past year and a half to remain sober. Reflecting on this commitment, he stated, “With this journey I’ve been on, I’m making sure that I’m healed not just for me, but also for them.”
As he prepares for this new chapter in his life, Brown looks forward to prioritising self-love and growth, envisioning a future filled with laughter and cherished moments with his grandchild. “I can’t wait to spoil that little one and have them on my hip,” he enthused.
Those interested can read more of Brown’s journey in the latest issue of PEOPLE, hitting newsstands on Friday. Furthermore, he encourages anyone struggling with mental health challenges or substance abuse to seek help through available resources.
As Karamo Brown steps into grandfatherhood, he embodies a spirit of positivity and resilience, sharing his experiences to inspire others embarking on similar journeys of personal growth and family love.