A TikTok video by Connie Kingston has gone viral, racking up over 8.8 million views in just a few days due to the touching and supportive reaction of her father upon learning about her sexuality. The heartfelt exchange between Connie and her father, Michael Kingston, showcases a genuine and loving response to her coming out.
In the video, Connie is casually chatting with her father about dinner plans when she subtly reveals that her “friend” Daya is actually her girlfriend. The conversation unfolds as follows:
Connie: Oh yeah, Daya's not my friend.
Dad: Why do you say that?
Connie: She's my girlfriend.
Dad: Oh, that's cool. I really like Daya.
Connie: Really?
Dad: Yeah, of course.
Connie: I like her too.
Dad: She's wonderful. Yeah. So are you.
Michael Kingston doesn’t just express acceptance but also provides a deeper explanation of his support. He reassures Connie with a loving message:
“Connie, I love you so much,” he says. “There's nothing you can do that would make me not love you. And there's nothing wrong with that lifestyle. I perfectly agree with that lifestyle. So some of my good friends in college had different lifestyles than me. I love you.”
His reaction not only demonstrates his acceptance but also reinforces his unwavering support by sharing his own experiences and feelings, which helps Connie feel even more confident in her decision to come out.
The video has garnered numerous comments from viewers touched by the father's compassionate response. One commenter, Tristann Whittaker, wrote, “Does your dad need extra children? Cuz we allll need a dad like that!” Another, Deactive, noted, “When his voice shakes when asking if you were worried about that tore me up, he loves and cares about you so much. You are a lucky girl.”
The father and daughter later appeared on Good Morning America to further discuss their relationship.
While Connie's father’s support was unwavering, Daya's family did not react as positively. Connie shared that Daya’s parents were not as accepting, which was disheartening for her. This situation prompted Connie to tell her parents about their relationship, hoping for the support that Daya needed.
Michael expressed surprise and sadness over the lack of universal acceptance, stating, “I’m surprised and a little sad because I hope that would be everybody's responsibility. You know, when someone you love finds someone they really care about in this world and that person cares about them, then why wouldn't that bring everybody joy?”
In 2023, as Michael poignantly remarks, acceptance should be a given for everyone, but his reaction stands out for its tenderness and unwavering support. His response serves as a powerful example for parents everywhere on how to fully support and affirm their LGBTQ children.