For gay and queer dads-to-be, the journey to parenthood often involves navigating one of three main paths: surrogacy, infant adoption, or adoption from foster care. For these eight well-known gay stars, the desire for a biological connection played a significant role in their decision-making process. Each of them chose surrogacy to build their families, with some openly sharing their challenges and triumphs along the way.
From pioneering fathers who broke new ground to those who faced and overcame significant hurdles to conceive, here are eight of our favorite celebrities who have navigated a surrogacy journey to create their beautiful families.
Andy Cohen
Andy Cohen, the beloved TV host and producer, made headlines when he became a dad through surrogacy. In 2019, he welcomed his first child, Benjamin Allen, and in 2023, his daughter, Lucy Eve, joined the family, also via surrogacy. Andy has been candid about his experiences, often sharing his excitement and gratitude for the journey that brought his children into his life. As a single dad, Andy’s story continues to inspire many in the LGBTQ+ community who dream of parenthood.
Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Justin Mikita
Jesse Tyler Ferguson, star of Modern Family, and his husband, Justin Mikita, became proud dads through surrogacy. In July 2020, the couple welcomed their first son, Beckett Mercer. In 2023, they announced the arrival of their second son, Sullivan Louis.
Become a dad through surrogacy
Ricky Martin and Jwan Yosef
Ricky Martin began his parenthood journey solo (and still closeted) with the birth of his twin sons, Matteo and Valentino, in 2008. Ricky and Jwan Yosef were married in 2017, and expanded their family further with the birth of their daughter, Lucia, in 2018, and their son, Renn, in 2019.
However, in July 2023, Martin and Yosef announced their separation after six years of marriage. Despite the end of their romantic relationship, they have emphasized their commitment to co-parenting their children and maintaining a supportive environment for their family.
Tom Daley and Dustin Lance Black
Olympic diver Tom Daley and his husband, Oscar-winning screenwriter Dustin Lance Black, embraced fatherhood through surrogacy in 2018. The couple welcomed their son, Robert Ray, named after Tom’s late father. Their second son, Phoenix Rose, made them a family of four when he was born in March 2023. Throughout their journeys, Tom and Dustin have been vocal advocates for surrogacy and LGBTQ+ family rights, sharing their experiences to inspire and support others on similar paths.
Tan and Rob France
Tan France, known for his role on Queer Eye, and his artist husband, Rob France, welcomed their first son, Ismail, in July 2021. Their path to parenthood was deeply meaningful, and they’ve been open about the emotional and logistical challenges of the surrogacy process. In 2023, the couple expanded their family further, welcoming their second son, Isaac.
Elton John and David Furnish
Elton John and David Furnish welcomed their first son, Zachary, in December 2010, followed by their second son, Elijah, in January 2013. The couple has expressed deep gratitude for their surrogate, acknowledging the incredible gift she gave them.
Shaun T. and Scott Blokker
Shaun T, the fitness expert behind Insanity, and his husband, Scott Blokker, faced a challenging journey to fatherhood through surrogacy. After experiencing multiple setbacks, including five failed attempts and a devastating miscarriage, their perseverance paid off. In 2017, the couple finally welcomed their twin boys, Sander and Silas, via surrogacy. Shaun and Scott have been candid about their struggles, sharing their story to offer hope and support to others facing similar challenges on the path to parenthood.
Neil Patrick Harris & David Burtka
Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka embarked on their surrogacy journey with a shared dream of becoming parents. After navigating the complexities of the process and facing the emotional ups and downs that come with it, they were overjoyed to welcome their twins, Harper and Gideon, in 2010.
Become a dad through surrogacy
