Lea Salonga reveals separation from husband

Lea Salonga opened up about her family life, revealing her separation from businessman Robert Chien and her son Nic’s transition.

During the media call of Les Misérables: World Tour Spectacular on Wednesday, Salonga said that it was no “secret” that she and her husband have been separated.

“He (Nic) has so much support. We are both super busy, but thankful the dad and dad’s partner are the ones… ’pag may sipon ka, here, let’s send you food. Let’s make sure you are well.’ It's not a secret we have been separated for a while. He is happy and I am happy he is happy,” she said.

Discussing her child Nic’s top surgery, Salonga advised prospective parents against having children unless they are prepared to offer unconditional love, particularly if their child comes out as gay.

“If they come out to you—if they say ‘mom, I'm lesbian, bisexual or trans,’ if under those conditions your love will stop. Do not have children, save yourself the drama and heartbreak. If hindi mo kaya, wag na lang,” Salonga said.

“Children are not customizable. Every kid is a blind box. You don’t know what you will get—but chances are it is the one you don’t want, but that is what you will get,” she added.

While Salonga acknowledged that some disagree with her son’s healthcare decisions, she remained steadfast in her parenting priorities.

“I am aware there are folks that will not understand or have a very negative opinion of the decisions we made for his health and own navigation of the world as a trans man—my only thing is I have to do what I need to do to help my child,” Salonga said.

Salonga and Chien got married at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels in Los Angeles, California, on January 10, 2007. They welcomed Nic, who was assigned female at birth, on May 16, 2006. 

She will be portraying Madame Thénardier in Les Misérables: World Tour Spectacular, happening at The Theatre at Solaire until March 1.