Tia Carrere, known for roles in films like Wayne’s World and as the voice of Nani in Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, has drawn attention not just for her acting but for the way she openly and warmly supports her transgender son, Jude. [web:1][web:2]
Her public comments about Jude’s happiness, character, and future offer a relatable and hopeful example for parents learning how to support a trans or questioning child. [web:1]
Who Is Tia Carrere?
Tia Carrere is a Hawaiian-born actor and singer who rose to fame in the 1990s, notably playing Cassandra Wong in the cult comedy Wayne’s World and voicing Nani in Disney’s animated film Lilo & Stitch. [web:1]
She has continued working in film and television for decades and returned to the Lilo & Stitch universe in the live-action remake, this time portraying a new character, Mrs. Kekoa, a social worker. [web:1]
Tia Carrere’s Son Jude
Carrere shares her son, Jude, with her ex-husband, photographer Simon Wakelin; Jude is a teenager who has come out as transgender. [web:2]
Public comments from Carrere emphasize that Jude is introspective, artistic, and caring, and that he prefers to avoid the spotlight despite his mother’s celebrity status. [web:1]
- Jude is described as introverted and not interested in acting or singing. [web:1]
- He is considered a “therapist” type friend, supporting peers and acting as a designated driver when others party. [web:1]
- He has interests in art, animals, and potentially science or medicine. [web:1]
A Parent’s Response to a Trans Child
When discussing Jude publicly, Carrere highlights his self-knowledge and happiness rather than centering fear, shame, or confusion, a tone that is deeply affirming and supportive. [web:1]
She acknowledges feeling proud of the person her son has become while remaining clear that he is his own individual, not simply a reflection of her parenting. [web:1]
Key Elements of Her Approach
- Affirmation of identity: Carrere emphasizes that Jude knows who he is and is content, which sends a clear message that his identity is valid. [web:1]
- Focus on character: She talks about his kindness, responsibility, and empathy, showing that his integrity matters more than how others label him. [web:1]
- Respect for autonomy: Carrere notes that Jude will make his own choices about career and life, rather than pushing him toward entertainment. [web:1]
Visibility and Representation in Media
Carrere’s support for her son appears during a broader cultural conversation about LGBTQ+ representation in media, including in projects like the live-action adaptation of Lilo & Stitch. [web:1]
While some critics have expressed disappointment over reduced queer coding in certain characters in the remake, Carrere herself now represents a real-life example of an affirming parent in the public eye. [web:1]
| Aspect | Original Animated Film | Live-Action Remake |
|---|---|---|
| Queer-coded character Pleakley | Frequently appears in feminine clothing and makeup, often read as gender-nonconforming. [web:1] | Still wears some feminine clothing but with a more muted, less emphasized presentation. [web:1] |
| Fan discussion | Often praised for subtle queer representation and gender play. [web:1] | Some fans express disappointment about a perceived reduction in queer coding. [web:1] |
| Tia Carrere’s role | Voices Nani, Lilo’s protective older sister. [web:1] | Plays Mrs. Kekoa, a social worker overseeing the sisters’ welfare. [web:1] |
