In a heartfelt development that highlights evolving perspectives on gender identity, Angel Brown, the son of actor Eddie Murphy and singer Melanie Brown (Mel B), has publicly come out as transgender. Both Murphy and Mel B have openly expressed their unwavering support for Angel as he embraces his identity as a transgender man.
Angel was born in 2007 following a brief relationship between Murphy, known for his role in Daddy Daycare, and Mel B, former member of the Spice Girls. Mel B recently celebrated her 50th birthday and is also mother to two daughters, Madison, 13, and Phoenix, 26. Eddie Murphy, meanwhile, is a father to ten children. His eldest, Eric, 35, recently married Jasmin Lawrence, daughter of actor Martin Lawrence, in a private ceremony.
Angel reached a significant milestone in April, turning 18. Around that time, observant followers noted that he updated his Instagram profile to reflect the pronouns “he/him.” According to insiders, both Mel B and Eddie Murphy have been accepting and supportive of Angel’s choice to identify as male. An anonymous source shared with Mail Online that the decision was personal and quiet: “There was no big event to mark it. Angel just wanted it to be known what pronouns are now suitable.”
Earlier in April, Mel B commemorated Angel’s 18th birthday with a heartfelt social media tribute. The America’s Got Talent judge wrote, “HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY ANGEL!!! I cannot believe you’re 18. You are so special and so bright and so talented!! I couldn’t be prouder of watching you grow and become the person you are but you’ll forever be my babyyyy. I hope you keep chasing your dreams and be kind to everyone around you like you always have been my Angel.” She signed off with loving words and a cascade of heart emojis, underscoring the close bond they share.
Angel’s journey is part of a broader cultural shift where more children of public figures are openly sharing their gender identities. Recently, Airyn De Niro, daughter of acclaimed actor Robert De Niro, also publicly came out as transgender. In an interview with Them magazine, Airyn expressed that embracing her gender identity “felt right” and that she feels “meant to be doing this.” This openness comes amid public misunderstandings; for instance, Airyn was misgendered in media coverage following a lunch outing with her father and labeled a “nepo baby,” a term referring to nepotism offspring. Responding to this, she remarked, “Not only did they get information wrong about me… They just sort of reminded me that people really don’t know anything about me.”
Robert De Niro has stood firmly by his daughter’s side, publicly affirming his support. “I love and support Airyn as my daughter. I don’t know what the big deal is. I love all my children,” he stated, reflecting an attitude of unconditional acceptance.
Angel Brown’s announcement, supported by two well-known and influential parents, is an important testament to the increasing visibility and normalization of transgender identities. It also highlights the evolving role that families, communities, and public figures play in fostering understanding and acceptance.
This story resonates particularly within conversations about health and mental well-being, as acceptance is a critical factor in positive outcomes for transgender youth. Studies have consistently shown that support from family and community significantly reduces risks of depression and anxiety among transgender individuals.
Moreover, public figures who share their personal stories or support their loved ones’ identities help to challenge stigma and foster wider societal acceptance. This shift is crucial not only for individual well-being but also for broader social progress.
As Angel embarks on this new chapter of self-discovery and public recognition, his experience echoes that of many young people today who seek authenticity amidst complex social landscapes. The openness of Eddie Murphy and Mel B serves as a model of parental support that many hope to see more widely embraced.
Source: Mail Online, Them Magazine