Tracee Ellis Ross Opens Up About Love Life On ‘IMO’ Podcast

NEW YORK, NY — Actress Tracee Ellis Ross discussed her journey through love and self-worth during a recent episode of the ‘IMO’ podcast with former First Lady Michelle Obama and her brother, Craig Robinson. At 52, Ross openly shared her feelings of grief regarding not having children or a committed partner, while emphasizing her unwillingness to settle for less than what she deserves.

During the candid conversation, Ross expressed her reflections on her life’s trajectory. “I grieve the things that I thought would be and that are not,” she said. “I’m not married. I don’t have children… and I think I grieve that at times.” Despite these feelings of loss, Ross affirmed her resolve to avoid entering relationships out of fear of being alone. “I still wouldn’t want the [wrong] partner. I am not interested in that; you have to make my life better, it can’t just be I’m in a relationship just to be in a relationship,” she added.

The ‘Black-ish’ star addressed the challenges she faces in dating, particularly with men of her own age. “A lot of men my age are steeped in toxic masculinity and have been raised in a culture where there is a particular way that a relationship looks,” she explained. Having previously been in relationships characterized by these dynamics, she stated, “I have been long past the age where I feel like it’s my job to teach somebody or grow them up.”

Ross noted a different perspective when it comes to dating younger men, describing them as more open and less traditional. “I do date and it’s a fascinating adventure out there,” she reflected. “Mostly though, I think there’s really good men out there.” Ross considers herself unique and believes that finding her match may require time. “I think to a certain extent, I’m a very unique sort of unicorn of a woman and so it’s gonna take a unique person,” she said. “In the meantime I’ve really learned how to live my life and enjoy it and not sit around waiting.”

The actress discussed her philosophy on meeting potential partners, favoring real-life encounters over dating apps. “I stick to meeting prospects in person at events or through friends,” she stated. “It’s usually people that also have a level of recognition. They have as much to lose as me to a certain extent.”

Despite navigating the complexities of dating, Ross admits that while she hasn’t found “the one” yet, she feels she is making progress. “I don’t know, I haven’t had great luck lately, but I do have to say I’m moving up on what it is that I’m looking for as a match,” she said.

Following the episode, social media users expressed admiration for Ross’s transparency and her commitment to maintaining her standards in relationships. Comments from fans included praises such as, “I love when women know their worth,” and, “The wrong partner is soooo much worse than no partner at all.” Many resonated with her candid discussion of the importance of being true to oneself in the pursuit of love.