Hollywood Dads

Victor Cruz’s daughter, Kennedy, may be young, but the former professional football player, 33, is already having honest conversations with the 8-year-old about racism in the wake of the Black Lives Matter protests. “I had to talk to her as if I was talking to my friend, with that realness and vividness so that she’s not shocked by anything when she gets older,” the athlete tells Us of educating his girl. (Mom is ex Elaina Watley.) Cruz just wants his little one to be able to “psychologically prepare” for the future, which he hopes will evolve. He opens up to Us about their convo. Q: How did your discussion begin?

We were watching CNN and the protests, and I [realized] I’ve never had this conversation with her. I need to have it now so she can visualize what I’m saying and how it’s coming to fruition right before her eyes.

Q: How did Kennedy react?

She was receptive. But she couldn’t understand why people wouldn’t like her because of the color of her skin.

Q: Why should parents have this talk with their kids?

All parents, not just Black parents, need to have these conversations so they can start to shift their minds. If you begin to think differently, the world will be a better place.