THE SINGLE LIFE

Divorced dad Taye Diggs tells In Touch why dating terrifies him

Taye Diggs has been single for a while now, but he’s still not quite ready to mingle. After splitting from his wife of 10 years, Broadway star Idina Menzel, in 2013 (they share a son, Walker, 8), the 47-year-old actor went on to date model Amanza Smith Brown for four years. Now, he says, “The world of dating is kind of foreign to me.” The doting dad — who stars in the new Netflix romantic comedy Set It Up with Lucy Liu — says he’s fearful of getting his heart broken: “I’ve made the mistake of ignoring red flags in the past, so I’ve been scared into paying more attention to them.” Here, Taye talks to In Touch’s Diana Cooper about being back on the market, co-parenting with Idina and his “dirty” guilty pleasure.

You’re back on the dating scene again. How’s it going so far? TD: Well, I usually meet people through work, so I haven’t been on many straight-up dates in my life. I guess I have to get used to that!

What are you looking for in a woman? TD: Someone who’s an independent thinker, open-minded and caring.

Any dating deal-breakers? TD: Playing games, playing hard-toget, petty or inconsiderate people. Those are the big ones. Would you get involved with someone who isn’t in the industry? TD: I base it on the person. It might be easier. I think actors belong with actors because they travel a lot and they’re usually charismatic and attractive, but being in the industry brings its own set of problems.

Do you think you’d marry again? TD: My head’s not anywhere near that place right now. I’m just focusing on work and being there for my son.

Tell us about Walker. TD: He’s really taken to basketball, so that’s been fun to watch. And he’s getting ready for summer camp. He’s a busy kid.

How is co-parenting with Idina? TD: I’m really lucky with his mother. We’re both very accommodating with each other’s schedules. We have to be. We put Walker first.

You worked with your Set It Up co-star Lucy Liu on Ally Mcbeal. What was it like to reunite? TD: It was great! We were laughing every day. The great thing about this business is that you run into old friends, which is so enjoyable.

You clearly still have it at 47. What’s your secret? TD: I try to be careful with my diet but I enjoy a good meal and won’t deny myself. I play basketball and tennis, too. But really it’s just good genes! ◼