In a candid interview on SiriusXM’s The Spotlight with Rebecca Shaw, actor Josh Gad, 43, shared the profound impact of reuniting with his father after a 20-year estrangement. This reunion, which occurred during Gad's Broadway run in Gutenberg!, marked a significant moment in his life and inspired much of the content in his recently released memoir, In Gad We Trust.

A Momentous Reunion That Brought Closure and Healing

The experience was deeply cathartic for Gad, who had not seen his father for two decades. When his dad called unexpectedly, expressing a desire to attend Gad's Broadway show, the actor agreed but insisted that it would be on his terms. The day of the performance, Gad found himself performing for his father for the very first time, an event that left him both emotional and reflective. “It was surreal,” Gad recounted, “to think that at 42, I could finally share this part of my life with him.”

The Unseen Performances of a Lifetime

Gad's father had never witnessed any of his performances, from school plays to Broadway shows. This absence weighed heavily on Gad, making the reunion all the more significant. After the show, Gad invited his father to his home, where they engaged in an awkward yet meaningful conversation. The timing added an unexpected twist—the encounter took place on Halloween, and Gad, along with his co-star Andrew Rannells, were dressed as characters from Mommie Dearest. Despite the confusion this caused, the conversation was pivotal in providing Gad with closure he hadn't realized he needed.

From Stage to Page: Crafting a Personal Narrative

The reunion profoundly influenced Gad's memoir, In Gad We Trust, which delves into various aspects of his personal and professional life. Released on January 14, 2024, the book offers readers an intimate look at Gad's struggles with self-image, career challenges, and family dynamics. Writing the memoir allowed Gad to explore and articulate his experiences, particularly those related to his strained relationship with his father. “It gave me a chance to reflect on everything that had shaped me,” Gad explained, adding that the process helped him become a better parent to his daughters, Isabella and Ava.

Bridging Generations: Lessons in Open Communication

Gad's experiences have profoundly impacted how he interacts with his children. He emphasizes the importance of open communication, encouraging his daughters to discuss even difficult topics. During an appearance on Today, Gad shared how he approaches conversations about sensitive subjects like sex education, ensuring his daughters feel comfortable coming to him with questions. “I want them to know that I’m here for them, no matter what,” Gad said, highlighting the value of trust and transparency in parenting.

Sharing Stories, Building Connections

Through his memoir and public appearances, Gad aims to foster deeper connections with his audience. By sharing his personal journey, he hopes to inspire others to confront their own challenges and find healing. “My story is just one piece of the puzzle,” Gad reflected. “But if it can help someone else, then it’s worth telling.”