Braunwyn Windham-Burke's Husband Has Some Thoughts About Her Coming Out
In December 2020, Real Housewives of Orange County star Braunwyn Windham-Burke shocked the world, and gained a whole host of new fans, by coming out as a lesbian following months of speculation about her marriage to husband Sean Burke. As People reported at the time, the reality star confirmed her sexual orientation in an interview with GLAAD, noting simply, "I like women. I'm gay." She added, "It has taken me 42 years to say that but I am so proud of where I am right now."
Windham-Burke had been married for more than 20 years at the time, with the couple sharing seven children. They continued living together as a family. As the RHOC star advised, "I love Sean. I love him dearly, he is my person, he is my family. But I'm not attracted to men and I never have been." The unconventional couple planned on staying married, with Windham-Burke stating that her husband was being incredibly supportive. Now, he's revealing exactly how he felt about the whole situation.
Sean Burke was relieved his wife was finally being true to herself
During the RHOC reunion, Windham-Burke opened up about her journey to coming out, admitting she had never been attracted to men — not even her husband. Host Andy Cohen acknowledged it probably hurt Burke to hear that, to which he responded, "Of course we have an emotional connection, we're best friends, and we enjoy each other that way, but that was a part of our relationship that was really hard and really challenging," (via Page Six). However, the dedicated father and businessman also admitted "in some ways it was a relief" when his wife came out, because it dissipated some of the ongoing tension between them.
Windham-Burke went on to reveal that her BFF Shari wanted her to leave Burke for her, but the RHOC star refused. At that point, she opened up to Burke about her feelings for women, suggesting an open marriage and telling him, "you're still my best friend, like, I love you." Burke agreed, and the couple continues to navigate their new relationship accordingly. Although the future is uncertain, both parties remain committed to their family and to maintaining their lifelong friendship. Although Burke admitted it had been tough, he acknowledged, "on the other hand, she's so much happier and we don't fight."