Tamzin Outhwaite, 55, has spoken about the protracted process of her family coming to terms with her eldest child, Flo, 17, being transgender. Outhwaite revealed that Flo first identified as a boy around the ages of 10 or 11, a revelation that was met with initial distress and disbelief by the actress. The actress emphasized that it has been a "very long journey" for the family to reach a place of acceptance, and that Flo is now "thriving."
Outhwaite shared these reflections on a number of occasions, including on the 'Parenting Hell' podcast. She admitted that her initial reaction to Flo coming out was one of internal struggle, describing it as a "very distressing time." She has expressed regret over her early response, wishing she could alter how she handled the news. The actress has stated that she now has a "son and a daughter," a shift from her previous framing of having "two daughters."
Read More: Ex-TOWIE Star Kirk Norcross Now Collects Rubbish in Norfolk and Suffolk
This period of adjustment involved family discussions, therapy sessions for both Flo and the wider family, and a commitment to learning. Outhwaite also noted the positive impact of her younger daughter, Marnie, 12, who from a young age understood Flo as her brother. Flo has been described as a talented individual with aspirations to be a comedy writer.
While Outhwaite has stated she is "not allowed to talk about him" out of respect for Flo's privacy, she has used her public platform to advocate for empathy towards transgender individuals, particularly addressing what she perceives as "judgemental" attitudes. She has highlighted that each individual's journey is unique and urged others not to judge situations they haven't experienced themselves.
Background
Outhwaite, known for her roles in 'EastEnders', 'New Tricks', and 'Hotel Babylon', has two children with her ex-husband, actor Tom Ellis. The couple divorced in 2014. Outhwaite has recently spoken about her life post-divorce, including her previous relationship with a man significantly younger than herself, and the dynamics of co-parenting with Ellis, who lives in Los Angeles. The actress has also alluded to future television projects.
Read More: Umansky Family Faces Court Battles Over Elder Abuse and Restraining Orders
