California Governor Gavin Newsom has been a long-time advocate for the LGBTQ community, highlighting his connection to his transgender godfather, Nats Getty.
Despite facing backlash from some progressives after describing transgender participation in women’s sports as “unfair,” Newsom pointed to Getty, a designer, model, and activist, to illustrate his support for the trans community. Getty, who came out as transgender in 2021, uses his own pronouns.
During an episode of Ezra Klein’s podcast released Wednesday, Newsom stated, “I have a transgender godfather. I’ve never had a governor sign more pro-trans legislation, and I’ve never had a stronger advocate for the LGBT community.”
Nats Getty is the great-grandson of oil mogul J. Paul Getty, whose family financially supported Newsom’s early political endeavors. Getty’s mother, Ariadne, is connected to the famous Oil family through her father, John Paul Getty, and her uncle, Gordon Getty.
Getty’s younger brother, August, is a designer and the founder of the fashion brand August Getty Atelier.
Additionally, Nats Getty is related to Ivy Getty, who had a highly publicized wedding and subsequent divorce from Tobias Engel in 2020.
As the founder and creative director of the Los Angeles streetwear brand Strike Oil, Getty regularly shares updates on Instagram, showcasing his designs and moments from lavish events in places like Paris and Lake Como.
Previously married to beauty YouTuber Gigi Gorgeous, Getty had a stunning beach wedding in Montecito in 2019. They filed for divorce in July, and it was noted that Newsom made a toast at their wedding.
In his coming-out announcement via a magazine and an emotional Instagram post, Getty detailed his journey, including significant physical changes he underwent. “I have spent my life bound to an appearance that is out of sync with my natural body, and out of sync with my heart and soul,” he expressed.
Newsom has been perceived as eyeing a presidential run and has consistently championed LGBTQ issues. As San Francisco’s mayor, he famously issued marriage licenses to same-sex couples in defiance of the law, gaining recognition as an ally to the community.
However, his recent comments regarding transgender inclusion in sports ignited frustration among activists. His office and the Getty Company have yet to respond to requests for comment.
