A congratulations is in order for MSNBC news anchor Thomas Roberts. The TV personality who was the first cable news anchor to come out after making an appearance at a 2006 National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association event has become engaged to his partner of 12 years, Patrick Abner.
The nuptials will also be a first for the industry, as the handsome host will become the first cable news anchor to get married to someone of the same sex.
As they prepare for their Manhattan fall wedding, he jokes of his stereotypical lifestyle changes upon getting engaged and beginning the inevitable weight loss plan. “I was on the treadmill for three miles this morning. I will be on it for three miles tomorrow. I had a Red Bull for lunch and I eat gum. I’m the typical groom!”
After coming out, his career at CNN suffered, but by mere coincidence, he tells the New York Observer. “CNN was going through some changes at the time—CNN is perpetually, always going through changes … When I came back [from Miami], I was told my schedule was being switched. It was just ill timing.” He ensures that his MSNBC gig will not be affected, mainly because of his outlook. “I am not objective when it comes to equality. And that means for all. I want it for you, for me, for everybody … It’s written in our Constitution: life, liberty and pursuit of happiness, and what’s wrong with talking about that? Nothing.”
Photo: glaad.org
