
Broadway and West End star Lea Salonga has once again used her voice to affirm her unwavering support for her son, Nic Chien, as he continues his journey as a transgender man.
In an interview with journalist MJ Marfori, Lea addressed parents who believe their love might be conditional should their child come out to them, stressing that parenthood demands acceptance without exceptions.
“To those who do not have kids, if you think you will not be able to love your child if they come out to —youif they say 'Mom, i'm lesbian, bisexual or trans,'—if under those conditions your love will stop, do not have children save yourself the drama and heartbreak. If hindi mo kaya, 'wag na lang,” she said.
Lea likened having children to an exercise in uncertainty, reminding parents that children are not molded to meet expectations.
“Children are not customizable. Every kid is a blind box. You don't know what you will get, but chances are it is the one you don't want, but that is what you will get,” she added.
Lea shared that Nic's transition has brought encouraging changes, both physically and emotionally, and has allowed him to live more freely and authentically.
“When there is change, the voice drops, body hair, it is a much more positive outcome... I just want a happy kid,” she said.
The award-winning performer also spoke openly about the emotional weight of watching her child struggle with gender dysphoria and the sense of helplessness that came with it.
“The dysphoria was a lot to deal with. It was affecting his mental health and every aspect of his life. To be his mom and to feel helpless is a terrible feeling. There is a feeling of guilt when you are unable to help your child. It is truly difficult," she explained.
According to Lea, consistent support, professional therapy, and hormone treatment played a key role in helping Nic feel more secure and confident in his own skin.
She noted, “With testosterone therapy and everything else, working with his therapist just figuring out how to be happy in his body, being confident to show the results, everyone in the family is so happy that he knew what he wanted."
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Lea also underscored that her responsibility as a parent has always been to advocate for her child's well-being and to clear whatever obstacles stood in the way.
“My job as his mom was to try and figure out how to get things done,” she said.
“I am aware there are folks that will not understand or have a very negative opinion of the decisions we made for his health and own navigation of the world as a transman, my only thing is I have to do what I need to do to help my child,” Salonga said.
Lea has also recently announced that she and Robert have separated after over 20 years of marriage. They remain on good terms and are co-parenting their only child, Nic.
Outside of her advocacy, Salonga is set to take on the role of Madame Thénardier in Les Misérables: World Tour Spectacular.
The production is currently running at The Theater at Solaire from January 20 until March 1.