The Full Story of George Takei Husband and the Love That Defined the Star Trek Icon’s Life
You’re searching for George Takei husband because the legendary Star Trek actor, activist, author, and social media personality has one of the most inspiring love stories in Hollywood. George Takei, best known for playing Hikaru Sulu, became a global symbol of resilience—not only for his work in entertainment but also for his powerful voice in LGBTQ+ rights, civil liberties, and Asian American representation. His marriage to Brad Altman, his longtime partner, reflects decades of devotion, courage, partnership, and shared purpose.
Below, you’ll explore who George Takei is, who his husband Brad Altman is, how they met, their decades-long relationship before same-sex marriage was legal, their historic wedding, and how they continue to support and uplift each other today.
Who Is George Takei?
Before exploring his marriage, it helps to understand why George Takei is such an important cultural figure. Born on April 20, 1937, in Los Angeles, he is an actor, author, activist, and humanitarian best known for his role as Sulu in the original Star Trek series.
Takei is known for:
- His groundbreaking role in a major sci-fi franchise
- His witty and thoughtful social media presence
- His activism for LGBTQ+ rights
- His advocacy for Japanese American history and civil liberties
- His storytelling about growing up in U.S. internment camps during WWII
- His Broadway musical Allegiance, based on his family’s experiences
George Takei’s career spans more than 60 years, and his marriage represents another powerful chapter in his life—and in LGBTQ+ history.
Who Is George Takei’s Husband?
George Takei’s husband is Brad Altman, a long-term partner, writer, tennis coach, and business collaborator. The two have been together for more than 35 years and share one of Hollywood’s most enduring same-sex partnerships.
The public first learned about their relationship in 2005 when George publicly came out as gay during a moment of intense cultural debate surrounding marriage equality. But in reality, he and Brad had already built a private life together for nearly two decades before that historic moment.
Who Is Brad Altman?
Brad Altman, born in 1954, is known for:
- His athleticism and love of marathon running
- His background in business management
- His writing and media work
- His role in supporting George’s career behind the scenes
- His decades of steadfast loyalty and partnership
While not a celebrity in the traditional sense, Brad has become well-known to fans of George Takei through public appearances, interviews, and George’s social media presence.
How George Takei and Brad Altman Met
George and Brad met in the early 1980s in Los Angeles. The story of their meeting is both sweet and relatable.
At the time:
- George was still closeted publicly
- Brad was active in the Los Angeles running and fitness community
- Both shared a passion for health, exercise, and personal growth
They first connected at a gay running club, where Brad made a strong impression with his athletic ability and kind demeanor. George has humorously shared that Brad finished marathons quickly, while he himself took a bit longer—but Brad always stayed behind to cheer him on.
Their bond grew through:
- Shared sports interests
- Emotional support
- Parallel ambitions
- A deep sense of trust and safety
Brad became not only George’s romantic partner but also his confidant, collaborator, and best friend.
A Relationship Built in a Time of Secrecy
It is impossible to understand the depth of their love without acknowledging the era in which their relationship began.
In the 1980s and early 1990s:
- Hollywood was aggressively closeted
- Coming out as gay could destroy an actor’s career
- Same-sex marriage was not legally recognized
- LGBTQ+ representation was limited and often stigmatized
George feared that coming out would end his ability to work in television and film. For this reason, he and Brad built a private, quiet life behind closed doors, supporting each other without the freedom to be public.
Their partnership thrived through:
- Discretion
- Mutual loyalty
- Emotional maturity
- A shared understanding of the risks
They weathered decades of social change—together.
George Takei Publicly Comes Out
In 2005, George Takei publicly came out as gay at the age of 68. The catalyst was a national debate about same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ rights. He said he felt compelled to speak out after hearing political leaders dismiss the legitimacy of same-sex relationships.
George revealed he had been in a committed relationship with Brad for nearly 20 years. The announcement was met with widespread support from fans and the entertainment industry.
Brad’s presence became publicly celebrated, not hidden.
Their Historic Wedding
George Takei and Brad Altman were married on September 14, 2008, in Los Angeles, becoming one of the first same-sex couples in California to legally marry after the state briefly legalized marriage equality that year.
Their now-iconic ceremony took place at the Japanese American National Museum, a meaningful location reflecting George’s heritage and activism.
Highlights of Their Wedding
Their wedding was:
- Elegant
- Emotional
- Culturally symbolic
- Filled with friends, family, and supporters
During the ceremony:
- Brad walked down the aisle with his mother
- George walked down the aisle with his sister
- Walter Koenig (Chekov) was best man
- Nichelle Nichols (Uhura) was bridesmaid
Members of the Star Trek family honored their captain and friend in a moment of true legacy.
Their Marriage Dynamic
George and Brad complement each other in a number of ways:
1. Emotional Balance
George brings humor, optimism, and charisma; Brad brings stability, thoughtfulness, and grounded energy.
2. Professional Collaboration
Brad helps manage George’s schedule, appearances, and business ventures. They co-produce content and public projects.
3. Shared Values
Both care deeply about:
- Civil rights
- LGBTQ+ equality
- Asian American representation
- History and education
- Community service
4. Mutual Respect
Their relationship thrives on communication, patience, and acceptance.
5. A Sense of Adventure
They travel frequently, often sharing stories of food, culture, and exploration.
Life After Marriage: Activism and Public Influence
As a married couple, George and Brad have become beloved figures in the LGBTQ+ community.
Together they:
- Advocate for marriage equality
- Support anti-bullying campaigns
- Promote voting rights
- Speak about the history of Japanese American incarceration
- Participate in charity events
- Inspire millions through open conversations about love and acceptance
George often says that Brad’s quiet strength empowers him to shine publicly.
Why Fans Love Their Relationship
People admire George and Brad because:
- Their love endured through decades of secrecy
- They supported each other through social and cultural shifts
- Their marriage symbolizes hope and resilience
- They model healthy, long-term partnership
- They uplift each other personally and professionally
- Their humor and warmth shine in interviews and social media
Their bond feels authentic, tested, and deeply meaningful.
What You Can Learn From George Takei and Brad Altman’s Love Story
Their relationship teaches powerful lessons:
- Love can thrive even in difficult circumstances.
- Visibility matters—your story can inspire others.
- Partnership means supporting your partner’s voice and purpose.
- A strong relationship grows from mutual respect and patience.
- Coming out is a personal journey—timing is different for everyone.
- Marriage, when built on authenticity, strengthens a relationship.
George and Brad’s love story is not just romantic—it’s historic.
Optional Outro
When you explore “George Takei husband,” you discover the extraordinary partnership between George Takei and Brad Altman, a couple who spent decades building a life together before the world even knew they were partners. Their marriage represents courage, legacy, and devotion, reflecting not only two lives intertwined but also a powerful chapter in LGBTQ+ history. Today, George and Brad continue to inspire millions as they celebrate love, equality, and the freedom to live openly.
Featured image source: Pinterest
