5 Surprising Facts About Brad Altman (Now Brad Takei): The Architect Behind George Takei’s Global Fame

Brad Altman, now officially known as Brad Takei, is a figure whose influence extends far beyond simply being the husband of *Star Trek* legend George Takei. As of December 15, 2025, he remains a vital force in his husband's career and a prominent voice in LGBTQ+ advocacy, particularly in the realm of social media and public speaking.

The journey of Brad Takei is a compelling story of a relationship that began in secret during a less tolerant era and blossomed into a public, pioneering partnership that helped redefine same-sex marriage in America. He is not just a partner; he is the architect of George Takei’s modern-day relevance and a producer in his own right, managing the actor's business and public persona with strategic precision.

Brad Takei: Complete Biographical Profile

The man originally known as Brad Altman has a rich history tied deeply to the entertainment industry and civil rights advocacy. His life story is intrinsically linked with George Takei’s, forming one of Hollywood's most enduring and influential partnerships.

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• Original Name: Brad Altman
• Current Legal Name: Brad Takei
• Date of Birth: February 16, 1954 (Age: 71 as of 2025)
• Spouse: George Takei (Married September 14, 2008)
• Relationship Timeline: Began dating in the 1980s; kept relationship secret for nearly 20 years.
• Name Change: Changed his last name from Altman to Takei in 2013, five years after their marriage, despite George's initial resistance.
• Primary Roles: Business Manager, Producer, LGBTQ+ Advocate, Social Media Influencer.
• Notable Projects: Producer of the web series *Takei's Take*, Featured in the documentary *To Be Takei*.
• Pioneering Act: Was one half of the first same-sex couple to apply for a marriage license in West Hollywood.

The Secret History: How Brad Altman Became Brad Takei

The love story between Brad Altman and George Takei is one of the most powerful narratives in celebrity history, spanning over four decades. It’s a testament to commitment, particularly in a time when public recognition for same-sex couples was non-existent.

Meeting and the Two-Decade Secret

Brad and George first met in the late 1970s or early 1980s through a gay rights organization, long before George publicly came out as gay in 2005. For two decades, their relationship remained a closely guarded secret, known only to their closest friends and family. This secrecy was a necessity for George, whose career as an actor, particularly his iconic role as Hikaru Sulu in *Star Trek*, was thought to be at risk if his true orientation was revealed.

Brad’s role during this time was one of quiet, unwavering support. He was a constant presence, managing the dual life required to protect George's public image while maintaining a loving, committed partnership behind the scenes. This period laid the foundation for his later, more public role as his husband's business manager and career architect.

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Pioneering the Path to Same-Sex Marriage

When the California Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in 2008, Brad and George were among the first to act. They were the first same-sex couple to apply for a marriage license in West Hollywood, a moment of profound public defiance and personal triumph.

Their wedding, held in September 2008 at the Japanese American National Museum, was a landmark event. It was a powerful, public declaration of their love and a significant moment for the entire LGBTQ+ community. Their wedding was attended by several *Star Trek* co-stars, including Nichelle Nichols (Uhura) and Walter Koenig (Chekov), further cementing their place in pop culture history.

The decision to change his name from Brad Altman to Brad Takei in 2013 was a deeply personal one, symbolizing his full integration into the family and his commitment to their shared legacy.

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Brad Takei’s Crucial Role as Business Manager and Producer

Brad Takei is often credited as the driving force behind George Takei’s resurgence in popularity and his transformation into a social media superstar. His professional contributions are as significant as his personal support.

The Architect of Modern George Takei

Brad serves as George Takei’s business manager, a role that involves far more than just handling finances. He is instrumental in shaping George's public image, particularly his hugely successful presence on platforms like Facebook and Twitter. George Takei's ability to connect with a new, younger audience through humor and activism is a direct result of Brad's strategic guidance.

• Business Management: Handles all professional and financial aspects of George's career.
• Content Creation: Collaborates on and manages the viral social media content that has made George a modern icon.
• Advocacy Strategy: Helps coordinate their joint efforts in LGBTQ+ and civil rights advocacy, ensuring their message is consistent and impactful.

Producer and Documentary Star

Brad is also a producer, most notably on the popular web series *Takei's Take*. Furthermore, the dynamic of their relationship and their joint advocacy work were the central focus of the 2014 documentary *To Be Takei*. The film offered an intimate look at their life, highlighting Brad’s foundational role in both George’s personal happiness and professional success.

This behind-the-scenes work, coupled with their frequent public appearances together—including a recent visit to the Pacific Buddhist Academy in February 2024—demonstrates that Brad Takei is an active and current public figure whose influence continues to shape the cultural and political landscape.

The Legacy of Brad and George: Advocacy and Influence

The partnership of Brad Takei and George Takei is a powerful symbol of enduring love and relentless activism. Their willingness to be public figures in the fight for equality has created a lasting legacy.

Their joint efforts focus heavily on LGBTQ+ rights, marriage equality, and sharing George’s childhood experience of Japanese American internment during World War II. By openly sharing their life, they have normalized same-sex relationships for millions of people worldwide, using George’s fame as a platform for profound social change.

Brad Takei’s journey from Brad Altman—a partner in secret—to Brad Takei—a producer, business manager, and public advocate—is a story of evolution, love, and the quiet power of a supportive partner. His contributions are woven into the fabric of George Takei’s career and the broader history of the fight for marriage equality. Their commitment remains a beacon of hope and a constant source of fresh, relevant commentary in today’s media landscape.