Here's why Andre Braugher kept his family out of spotlight before his tragic death
Andre Braugher's legacy: Balancing fame and family
The tragic death of beloved 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine 'star Andre Braugher in December 2023 has left a void in the entertainment world, reminiscent of other untimely losses like Matthew Perry. While Braugher's colleagues mourn the loss of his exceptional talent and warm demeanor, they are also highlighting Braugher's commitment to keeping his family out of the media spotlight.
Andre Braugher's private family life
Andre Braugher was well-known for his conscious decision to protect his family from the severe scrutiny of the media. He is survived by his wife, the actress Ami Brabson, and his three boys, Michael, Isaiah, and John. According to Braugher, parents must raise their children in a real-world setting, "People forget where they came from and what made them, and the context in which they lived… And for those things that I've done which are worthy of admiration or acclaim, I put them in the proper perspective. Being a husband and a father are, in my mind, greater accomplishments than what I play on television."
Andre Braugher's evolving ambitions
Braugher admitted that his priorities have changed from being a movie star to being a good husband and father. In a 2020 interview with Gold Derby, Andre Braugher candidly discussed a shift from being a movie star to a family man. Braugher said, "I've had a really terrific career, and I've gotten a chance to work with some fascinating people on material that I'm really proud of. So where my ambitions will take me next, I have no idea."
Andre Braugher and Ami Brabson aimed for work-life balance
The late Andre Braugher's illustrious acting career was not without the support and partnership of his wife, Ami Brabson. Braugher often turned to Ami, who was his confidant, navigating the complexities of Hollywood life together. From significant career decisions, including Braugher's Broadway debut, to collaborative projects like 'Tough Titty' and NBC's 'Homicide: Life on the Street,' the couple's bond was a guiding force. Having met at Juilliard, they exchanged vows in 1991 and built a family, welcoming three children over their decades-long marriage. In a 2020 interview with Variety, Braugher expressed the deep connection he shared with Ami, saying, "We're like-minded; we grew up in similar neighborhoods; we share the same values. She knows me like the back of her hand, and I'm grateful for that."
Andre Braugher's sons
While Andre Braugher and Ami Brabson basked in the Hollywood spotlight, their three sons, Michael, Isaiah, and John, opted for lives away from the public eye. In a departure from their parents' chosen path, the Braugher sons have maintained a low profile, avoiding interviews and keeping their personal lives private. Among them, Michael Braugher briefly ventured into acting, earning recognition with the John Houseman Award for Excellence in Classical Theater after graduating from Juilliard. Braugher often flew from Los Angeles to New York during filming to spend quality time with his sons.
Andre Braugher: Choosing fatherhood over fame
Andre Braugher revealed that his decision not to explore opportunities beyond acting was rooted in a deep understanding of the significance of fatherhood. Braugher consciously opted for a life that prioritized his role as a father over potentially expansive professional ventures. He wanted his sons to know him as more than just a passing presence in their lives. Variety had previously reported that two of Braugher's three sons had shown an interest in pursuing acting. This suggests the intriguing possibility that another member of the Braugher family might be contemplating joining acting.
