Award-winning American actress Kerry Washington has revealed that she discovered in her 40s that she was conceived through a sperm donor.
Speaking during a conversation on the podcast hosted by l Lewis Howes, Washington explained that her parents kept the information from her for decades because they believed it was the best decision for their family.
According to the actress, her father always considered her his biological child and strongly resisted any suggestion of a genetic test.
“My dad believed I was his and wouldn’t even do a genetic test. He said to me then, ‘If you do this, it will call me,’” she said during the interview.
Washington said her father’s conviction shaped how she understood her identity and family for much of her life, as he raised and loved her as his own.
Reflecting on the revelation, the actress described the experience as both emotional and surprising, forcing her to rethink long-held assumptions about her background.
Despite the discovery, Washington emphasized that her relationship with her parents remains strong and meaningful, highlighting the complex nature of family, identity, and the choices parents make.
