George Takei, the iconic actor best known for his role as Hikaru Sulu in the original Star Trek series, has lived a life marked by significant public service and a deeply private, yet ultimately celebrated, romantic journey. For decades, his personal life remained largely out of the public eye, until a pivotal moment in 2005 brought his long-standing, committed relationship into the spotlight. His love story is a testament to perseverance, partnership, and the evolving landscape of LGBTQ+ rights.
The foundation of George Takei's enduring romantic life began in the 1980s, when he met Brad Altman at an LGBTQ+ running club called Frontrunners. Takei, drawn to Altman's "dashingly good-looking" appearance and athletic prowess, initiated their connection by asking Brad to train him for a marathon. What started as a shared interest in running quickly blossomed into a profound romantic partnership, with the couple becoming inseparable. Their relationship officially began in 1985.
For nearly two decades, their love remained a closely guarded secret. Takei, a prominent actor in Hollywood, felt compelled to keep his sexual orientation and relationship with Altman private, fearing it would jeopardize his career in an era less accepting of LGBTQ+ individuals. This period, which Takei later described as "torturous," was marked by the constant fear of exposure. Brad Altman, who also became Takei's business partner, managing his public relations and various projects, played a crucial supportive role during these years, understanding the necessity of their private existence.
A turning point arrived in October 2005, when George Takei publicly came out as gay in an issue of Frontiers magazine. This courageous decision was spurred by then-California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's veto of same-sex marriage legislation, igniting Takei's resolve to speak out for equality. In his announcement, he revealed his 18-year committed relationship with Brad Altman, instantly transforming their private bond into a public symbol of love and advocacy. This revelation marked the beginning of Takei's prominent role as a spokesperson for the Human Rights Campaign's "Coming Out Project" and an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
Following California's Supreme Court decision to legalize same-sex marriage, George Takei and Brad Altman announced their engagement in May 2008. They made history by becoming one of the first same-sex couples to legally marry in California, exchanging vows on September 14, 2008, in a beautiful Buddhist ceremony in Los Angeles. The wedding was a star-studded affair, with Star Trek co-stars Walter Koenig (who played Chekov) serving as their best man and Nichelle Nichols (Uhura) as their best woman, symbolizing the unity and acceptance that had finally arrived.
Their marriage further solidified their public partnership and commitment. In 2009, George and Brad participated as the first openly gay couple on The Newlywed Game, showcasing their playful dynamic and deep connection to a wide audience. Brad Altman later made a significant gesture of devotion by officially changing his last name to Takei in 2013, despite George's initial playful resistance, symbolizing their complete union and shared identity.
The couple's life together has been extensively documented and celebrated. They appeared in the 2009 documentary short George & Brad in Bed, offering an intimate glimpse into their relationship. In 2014, the critically acclaimed documentary To Be Takei provided a comprehensive look at George's life, with a significant focus on his relationship with Brad and their shared activism. They also launched a popular web series, It Takes Two, inviting viewers into their daily lives and humorous interactions.
Through their public appearances and shared endeavors, George and Brad Takei have become a powerful example of a lasting, loving partnership. George often speaks of their relationship as a true "team," with Brad managing many aspects of their shared life and career. Their journey, spanning nearly four decades together and over 16 years of marriage, has been a beacon of hope and inspiration for many, demonstrating that love, commitment, and authenticity can indeed thrive, even in the face of societal challenges. Their story continues to unfold, marked by mutual respect, unwavering support, and a shared dedication to making the world a more accepting place.