Meet Jackson Foo Wong: The Remarkable Journey of a Surviving Twin
The story of Jackson Foo Wong is one of courage, survival, and identity. Born into the heart of New York City, he is not just the son of famous personalities like BD Wong and Richie Jackson, but also a young man who represents strength and authenticity. His journey from a premature birth to becoming a symbol of modern family love tells a story that deeply resonates with anyone who believes in resilience and acceptance.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jackson Foo Wong |
| Known For | Son of American actor BD Wong and talent manager Richie Jackson |
| Born In | New York City, USA |
| Date of Birth | 2000 |
| Parents | BD Wong (father), Richie Jackson (father) |
| Sibling | Boaz Dov Wong (twin brother, passed away due to Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome) |
| Education | New York University (NYU) |
| Residence | West Village, New York City |
| Nationality | American |
| Family Type | Two-father family, same-sex marriage household |
| Famous For | Being part of a loving but non-traditional family and representation of LGBTQ+ parenting |
| Known Book Mention | Gay Like Me: A Father Writes to His Son by Richie Jackson |
| Interests | Art, music, theatre, advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth |
| Media Coverage | The New York Times, Broadway World, Fashion Week Daily |
| Public Image | Private life off the spotlight, represents acceptance and identity awareness |
| Nickname | The Chestnut Man |
| Important Theme | Mixture of love, hope, courage, and identity |
Early Life and Birth Stor
Jackson Foo Wong was born premature in 2000 through surrogacy, along with his twin brother Boaz Dov Wong. Sadly, Boaz didn’t survive due to Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS), a rare medical condition that affects identical twins sharing a placenta. Jackson, the surviving twin, spent his first days in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), fighting for his life with the help of skilled doctors and the unwavering love of his two fathers.
The emotional start to his life gave Jackson’s story a deep meaning from day one one rooted in love, science, and hope.
A Loving but Unusual Family
Jackson’s upbringing took place in a loving but unusual family. Raised by two fathers, actor BD Wong and producer Richie Jackson, his home was filled with creativity, care, and acceptance. The two-father family became a symbol of same-sex marriage visibility long before it became widely accepted in society.
His parents, both openly gay, built a home that valued openness and truth. Jackson grew up in a non-traditional household where love came before labels a rare example of how modern families can thrive outside societal norms.
Growing Up in New York City
Jackson spent his childhood surrounded by the culture and energy of New York City. Living in the West Village, a place known for its artistic and LGBTQ+ community, gave him early exposure to diversity. He attended New York University (NYU), following his parents’ footsteps into an environment of creativity and higher education.
New York City shaped him from the busy streets to the art-filled theaters, every corner contributed to his sense of belonging and confidence.
The Chestnut Man: A Meaningful Nickname
Jackson was affectionately called “The Chestnut Man,” a nickname with a special emotional connection to his twin brother Boaz. It symbolizes resilience, remembrance, and rebirth. For his parents, it became a way to honor both sons one living and one lost.
This nickname has since become part of the family’s story, representing love, loss, and the courage to move forward.
Art, Music, and Theatre Upbringing
From a young age, Jackson was surrounded by art, music, and theatre. BD Wong, known for his work on Broadway and Hollywood, introduced him to the beauty of performance and storytelling. Richie Jackson, a producer and advocate, encouraged him to express himself freely.
• The family often attended Broadway shows.
• Art and theatre were part of daily conversations.
• Creative thinking was encouraged instead of conformity.
These experiences helped Jackson develop a rich understanding of identity, expression, and authenticity — qualities that continue to define him today.
Coming Out and Embracing Identity
Growing up in a world that often misunderstood queer identity wasn’t easy. However, Jackson’s story shows the importance of representation and visibility. With supportive fathers who had lived their own struggles, he learned that being true to himself mattered more than fitting in.
As a gay son coming of age in New York, he benefited from a surge of acceptance among his generation. His journey was a mixture of love, hope, and courage a reflection of how younger LGBTQ+ individuals now find safer spaces and communities to express themselves openly.
Gay Like Me: A Father Writes to His Son
One of the most powerful chapters of Jackson’s story is tied to Richie Jackson’s book, Gay Like Me: A Father Writes to His Son. The book explores the experience of parenting a gay child and offers guidance about identity, authenticity, and self-acceptance.
In it, Richie reflects on his own challenges growing up closeted and contrasts them with Jackson’s experience of being openly gay in a more accepting world. The book serves as both a love letter and a guide for parents and youth navigating queer identity today.
| Book Title | Gay Like Me: A Father Writes to His Son |
|---|---|
| Author | Richie Jackson |
| Publisher | HarperCollins |
| Main Theme | Parenting a gay child, acceptance, and generational change |
| Release Year | 2020 |
This heartfelt work also highlights privilege and activism within the gay community, emphasizing that being gay is not a big deal it’s just another beautiful part of human diversity.
Influence of BD Wong and Richie Jackson
As the son of BD Wong and Richie Jackson, Jackson Foo Wong grew up with two remarkable role models. BD Wong, an acclaimed American actor known for his performances in Jurassic Park, Law & Order: SVU, and M. Butterfly, taught him resilience and discipline. Richie Jackson, on the other hand, showed him compassion, creativity, and activism.
Together, they raised their son to value education, growth, and empathy qualities that continue to define his path. Despite their breakup, the family dynamics remained positive and respectful, showing that love can transcend separation.
A Family Beyond the Spotlight
Unlike many children of celebrities, Jackson prefers to keep his private life off the spotlight. His social media and Instagram presence are minimal, reflecting his desire for normalcy. While he occasionally appears at events with his parents, he largely avoids fame, focusing on his education and personal interests instead.
His quiet confidence stands in contrast to the fast-paced celebrity culture of today, showing that self-worth doesn’t require constant visibility.
Connection with Jordan Roth and Levi Roth
Through his father Richie’s marriage to Jordan Roth, Jackson also shares a blended family connection with Levi Roth. Jordan Roth, a major Broadway producer and creative visionary, further added an artistic layer to Jackson’s upbringing. This environment of creativity and activism surrounded him with role models who value authenticity, theatre, and self-expression.
Surviving Twin and Resilience
Jackson’s identity as a surviving twin continues to be an important part of his life story. Losing his brother Boaz Dov Wong so early gave him a deeper appreciation for life. His family’s openness about that loss has inspired others who’ve faced similar pain from rare medical conditions like TTTS.
His journey proves that from pain can come purpose that even early tragedy can fuel empathy and understanding.
Advocacy and Social Awareness
Although Jackson does not lead a public activist life, his upbringing has made him sensitive to issues of LGBTQ+ representation, safe spaces for gay youth, and equality. Growing up with parents who often spoke out during the Obama, Trump, and Pence eras taught him the importance of activism, voice, and progress.
His story embodies what modern queer identity stands for: a mix of pride, awareness, and quiet strength.
Education, Growth, and Independence
At New York University (NYU), Jackson pursued studies that aligned with his passions. The university’s open-minded atmosphere gave him the freedom to grow intellectually and personally. His college years reflect the journey of a young man finding his path in a world that now celebrates diversity more than ever.
Through education, he learned to balance privilege with responsibility to use his voice for understanding rather than attention.
Modern LGBTQ+ Representation and Legacy
Jackson’s story fits perfectly into today’s larger conversation about representation and visibility. As more children of same-sex couples grow up in mainstream society, families like his help normalize love in all forms. His life, filled with art, family, and self-discovery, shows that progress comes from everyday acceptance, not just political change.
Conclusion: A Life of Love, Courage, and Self-Acceptance
The story of Jackson Foo Wong is a powerful example of modern family, love, and resilience. From being born premature and surviving a rare medical condition to growing up in a two-father family in New York, he represents courage and authenticity. His journey is not about fame but about truth about being seen, loved, and accepted for who you are.
In a world still learning to embrace differences, his story reminds us that identity is not a burden but a beautiful gift.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who are Jackson Foo Wong’s parents?
Jackson Foo Wong is the son of actor BD Wong and producer Richie Jackson.
2. What is Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS)?
It’s a rare medical condition that affects identical twins sharing a placenta, where blood flow becomes imbalanced.
3. What is the book Gay Like Me about?
Gay Like Me: A Father Writes to His Son is Richie Jackson’s heartfelt letter to his son, exploring LGBTQ+ identity and acceptance.
4. Did Jackson Foo Wong grow up in New York City?
Yes, he was raised in New York City’s West Village, surrounded by creativity, art, and diversity.
5. Is Jackson Foo Wong active on social media?
No, Jackson prefers a private life off the spotlight and keeps a minimal presence on social media.