Gabrielle Union is keeping it real about parenting anxiety.
The Bring It On actress recently opened up about how she’s feeling as her 17-year-old stepdaughter, Zaya, prepares to head off to college, and let’s just say it’s a mix of pride, nerves, and total helplessness. Union, 52, admitted she’s “scared but excited” about this next big step in Zaya’s life, especially since the teen plans to major in astrobiology. That’s right, astrobiology. “We can’t help with that,” Union told People, laughing about how neither she nor husband Dwyane Wade has been able to help with homework since fourth grade.
Zaya is Wade’s daughter from a previous relationship, and Union has fully embraced her role as stepmom. In fact, she’s cherishing every last moment before Zaya moves on to college life. There’s even a sweet daily ritual she’ll miss, Zaya and Union’s six-year-old daughter, Kaavia, are currently in the same school. Yep, one’s in kindergarten, the other’s a high school senior. “During Kaav’s lunch, Zaya comes and hangs out with her,” Union shared. “It’s really special that they’re at the same school, at least for one year.”
And it’s not just school that bonds the two. Zaya recently told Seventeen that she and Union love to “dish the dirt” and spill all the high school gossip. “She gets excited for me when I’m like, ‘Oh, I like this person,’” Zaya said. Clearly, Union is the chill stepmom who’s all in on the heart-to-hearts and boyfriend talk.
But it’s not all laughs when it comes to dating. Zaya also revealed that her dad, former NBA superstar Dwyane Wade, is kind of terrifying when it comes to meeting her potential boyfriends. “He tries to scare any person I have interest in,” she said. “He’s gigantic and has this deep, booming voice.” Still, Zaya reassured everyone that Wade’s bark is worse than his bite. “The facade only lasts so long. He’s a teddy bear once you get to know him.”
As Zaya prepares to fly the nest, Gabrielle Union is feeling all the emotions, and who can blame her? Whether it’s fretting over astrobiology or tearing up over a kindergarten lunch visit, she’s navigating this major life change like any mom would: with a little fear, a lot of love, and some honest humor.
