The actress shares the poignant moment she learned about her sperm donor and how it shaped her identity and relationships

Kerry Washington has opened up about the emotional impact of learning that her father, Earl Washington, wasn’t her biological parent, revealing how the discovery unfolded and the support she received from her close friend, James Corden. Speaking on the What Now? with Trevor Noah podcast, Washington explained that Corden had been “very concerned” when she revealed her plans to find out more about her sperm donor, a decision she made after writing her memoir Thicker Than Water.

Corden expressed his worries about how finding the donor might affect her, urging Washington to be cautious not to let the discovery undermine her sense of self. He shared a heartfelt story about a friend of his who had used a sperm donor, whose identity remained anonymous but who had left a touching message for the child, affirming the love and importance of the parents who raised them. Washington recalled this story with emotion, explaining how it helped her navigate her feelings about the donor.

She also shared how the revelation about her biological father came about after she informed her parents of her appearance on the PBS show Finding Your Roots. During the show, Washington learned that her mother, Valerie, had conceived her through sperm donation after struggling with fertility issues. It was only after her parents were encouraged by the show’s host, Henry Louis Gates Jr., to disclose the truth that she found out about the donor.

Reflecting on her emotional journey, Washington noted that the discovery gave her clarity about her own story. She recalled how, before this, she felt disconnected from her body, as though something was being hidden from her. Now, she said, she understands her history more fully and feels empowered to share her story with others.

In her memoir, Washington delves into the complexities of identity, explaining how she felt her parents’ deep love and desire to have her, despite the unconventional path they took. The actress expressed her gratitude for their decision, acknowledging that the donor played a small but significant role in her life.

Washington’s relationship with her parents remains strong, with the actress stating that her newfound understanding has only deepened her love, compassion, and appreciation for them. Her memoir, which chronicles this journey, is a testament to her desire to understand herself and the role her parents played in shaping who she is today.