Gabrielle Union is “scared but excited” about her stepdaughter leaving for college. The actress has been a supportive presence in her blended family’s life while balancing her successful career in Hollywood.
“[I am] scared but excited for her. She’s an astrobiology major. So we can’t help with that. We haven’t been able to help with homework since the fourth grade, but we’re excited for next year,” the 52-year-old actress has 6-year-old Kaavia with NBA star Dwyane Wade — who also has son Ziar, 23, daughter Zaya, 17, and 11-year-old Xavier from previous relationships — and doesn’t see how she or her husband will be able to help their teenager when she heads off into higher education. Union and Wade have been widely praised for their inclusive approach to parenting in their blended family.
The Bring It On star also brought up the age difference between Zaya and her youngest and has enjoyed that the two of them have been able to attend the same school at the same time before now. This special connection between siblings with such an age gap has been particularly meaningful for the family.
She said: “It’s funny because Zaya’s a senior and [Kaavia’s] in kindergarten at the same school. And so during Kaav’s lunch, Zaya comes and hangs out with Kaav. And this is really special that they’re at the same school, at least for one year.” These moments of connection between the siblings have created lasting memories for the family.
Union ‘really cool’ about Zaya dating
Earlier this year, Zaya revealed that her parents are “really cool” about the idea of her dating and insisted that she loved to “gossip” about boys with her stepmother. The family’s open communication style has been highlighted as a strength in their relationship.
“They’re really cool about it. Me and my stepmom love to dish the dirt and tap into the high school gossip,” Zaya said. “She gets excited for me when I’m like, ‘Oh, I like this person,” she told Seventeen. Union has often spoken about the importance of creating a safe space for honest conversations with the children.
However, Zaya did note that her dad can be “kind of intimidating” to any potential suitors but his facade will ware off eventually once his “real personality” manages to break through. This protective father aspect of Wade has become a lighthearted family dynamic.
She added: “My dad … he tries to scare any person I have interest in. He’s kind of intimidating. The people I’ve dated have all been afraid of him in the first interaction. He’s gigantic and has this deep, booming voice. But the facade only lasts for so long and you actually see his real personality. He’s a teddy bear!” The contrast between Wade’s imposing physical presence and his gentle nature is something the family finds endearing.
Union finds joys in life as stepmom
Union has been candid about the joys and challenges of being a stepparent in previous interviews, noting that building trust and authentic relationships takes time and patience. Her journey from being childless to becoming an integral part of a large blended family has resonated with many fans.
The family has maintained a united front through various life challenges, including supporting Zaya through her personal journey. Their public support and advocacy have been praised by many organizations and families facing similar situations.
Wade and Union’s approach to co-parenting with the children’s other biological parents has also been highlighted as a positive example of putting children’s needs first despite adult relationships ending. This mature approach has created stability for all the children in their blended family.
As Zaya prepares for her college journey, the family is focusing on celebrating this milestone while preparing for the inevitable changes it will bring to their family dynamic. The transition represents both an exciting new chapter and a bittersweet moment as their household begins to evolve.
Union continues to balance her thriving acting career with her family responsibilities, often bringing Kaavia to events and creating opportunities for family time despite busy schedules. This work-life integration has become an important part of their family culture.
