Robin Roberts Opens Up About Personal Challenges and Marriage to Amber Laign
Robin Roberts, the beloved Good Morning America co-host, is known for her radiant smile and warm personality. However, behind the scenes, Roberts has faced personal battles that reveal her strength and resilience. From health struggles to supporting her partner Amber Laign through illness, Roberts’ journey is one of courage, love, and perseverance.
A Love Story That Almost Didn’t Happen
Roberts met Amber Laign in 2005 through a blind date arranged by friends. Interestingly, both women tried to cancel the date – twice. But fate had other plans. What started as a reluctant meeting blossomed into a deep and enduring relationship. Roberts fondly recalls that first date and often shares the story with humor, reflecting on how destiny brought them together.
Though Roberts didn’t publicly come out until 2013, she explained that her close friends, family, and colleagues had long known about her relationship with Amber. It wasn’t secrecy but Amber’s preference for privacy that kept their relationship low-profile. Amber, a massage therapist, prefers to stay out of the public eye while remaining a pillar of strength in Roberts’ life.
Facing Life’s Toughest Challenges Together
Amber’s support became crucial when Roberts faced two major health crises. In 2007, Roberts was diagnosed with breast cancer, and in 2012, she battled myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), a rare and life-threatening bone marrow disorder. These were some of the darkest times in Roberts’ life, but Amber was by her side through it all.
Roberts often credits Amber’s love and care as a significant factor in her recovery. In her memoir, Everybody’s Got Something, Roberts details how Amber’s unwavering presence helped her through grueling treatments and emotional lows. Amber’s quiet strength became a guiding force, providing comfort and stability during difficult times.
In addition to health battles, Roberts faced personal losses, including the death of her father and the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in her hometown. Amber remained steadfast, supporting Roberts as she navigated these personal hardships.
Advocating for Love and Equality
Roberts has long been a champion for LGBTQ+ rights. In 2014, she appeared at the GLSEN Respect Awards, advocating for safer environments for LGBTQ+ youth. Roberts uses her platform to push for acceptance and equality, often sharing her experiences with Amber as an example of love transcending labels.
Together, Roberts and Amber have become role models for many in the LGBTQ+ community. Their relationship, marked by love, humor, and mutual respect, shows that true partnership is universal, regardless of sexual orientation.
A Joyful Journey to Marriage
After nearly two decades together, Roberts and Amber decided to take the next step. In 2023, Roberts announced their engagement on Good Morning America, revealing that they felt it was finally the right time. Amber’s breast cancer diagnosis had delayed their plans, but once her health stabilized, they joyfully moved forward.
Their engagement was lighthearted and unique, reflecting their personalities. During a dinner date, the couple humorously exchanged calamari rings as a playful engagement gesture.
In September 2023, Robin and Amber officially married in an intimate ceremony at a Connecticut courthouse. Surrounded by loved ones – including their dog Lucas – they exchanged vows, celebrating their long-standing commitment. A second celebration in New Orleans, complete with a brass band and wedding cake, allowed family and friends to join in the joyous occasion.
Roberts continues to inspire through her authenticity, proving that love, resilience, and faith can carry us through life’s most challenging moments.