Pat Henschel and Terry Donahue’s love story is one that spans over seven decades and is explored in the moving Netflix documentary, A Secret Love. The documentary, directed by Donahue’s great-nephew, Christopher Bolan, follows the couple’s journey from their early days as professional baseball players to their later years as they navigate the challenges of aging and coming out to their family.
Since the release of the documentary, many viewers have been curious about the current whereabouts of Pat Henschel. According to recent interviews, Henschel is now 91 years old and lives in an assisted living facility in Edmonton, Canada. She spends her days going to casinos and movie theaters. And continues to cherish the memories of her life with Donahue.
Despite the challenges they faced as a same-sex couple in the mid-twentieth century, Pat and Terry’s love story has touched the hearts of viewers around the world. Through A Secret Love, audiences have been able to witness the power and resilience of their relationship. Plus, the impact it has had on their family and the LGBTQ community.
Key Takeaways
- A Secret Love explores the seven-decade love story of Pat Henschel and Terry Donahue, from their days as professional baseball players to their later years as a same-sex couple coming out to their family.
- Pat Henschel, now 91 years old, lives in an assisted living facility in Edmonton, Canada, and continues to cherish the memories of her life with Donahue.
- The documentary has touched the hearts of viewers around the world, highlighting the resilience and impact of Pat and Terry’s relationship on their family and the LGBTQ community.
The Love Story
Pat Henschel
Pat Henschel is a former professional baseball player who played for the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. She met Terry Donahue in 1947 and they fell in love. However, due to societal norms at the time, they had to keep their relationship a secret. They continued to hide their true feelings for each other for over 60 years.
Terry Donahue
Terry Donahue was also a former professional baseball player who played for the same league as Pat Henschel. She and Pat fell in love and began a secret relationship that lasted for over 60 years. Terry passed away in 2019, leaving Pat behind.
Their love story is a testament to the strength and resilience of true love. Even in a time when homosexuality was not accepted and they encountered challenges as a lesbian couple, they persevered in their commitment to each other and their relationship.
The documentary “A Secret Love” on Netflix tells their story and showcases their enduring love for each other. It is a touching tribute to their relationship and a reminder that love knows no bounds.
Baseball and A League of Their Own
The 1992 film, “A League of Their Own,” depicts a fictionalized account of the founding of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) during World War II, a time when numerous male baseball players were enlisted in the military. The league operated from 1943 to 1954 and was a significant step forward for women’s sports.
The film, directed by Penny Marshall, starred Geena Davis, Tom Hanks, and Madonna. It was a commercial and critical success, earning over $100 million at the box office and receiving two Academy Award nominations.
Terry Donahue’s Career
Terry Donahue was a professional baseball player who played for the Peoria Redwings in the AAGPBL, the same team that inspired “A League of Their Own.” Donahue played as an infielder before transitioning to catcher. She was known for her strong arm and her ability to throw out baserunners.
Donahue played for the Redwings from 1946 to 1949 and was a part of the team that won the league championship in 1946. After retiring from baseball, Donahue worked as a nurse and eventually settled down with her partner, Pat Henschel.
The new Netflix documentary “A Secret Love” delves into the relationship of Donahue and Henschel. It also examines Donahue’s baseball career and her tenure in the AAGPBL. The documentary provides a fascinating look at the lives of two women who were pioneers in both sports and LGBTQ+ rights.
The Documentary Journey
Behind the Scenes
The Netflix documentary, A Secret Love, tells the story of Pat Henschel and Terry Donahue, a lesbian couple who kept their relationship hidden for over 70 years. Donahue’s great-nephew, Christopher Bolan, directed the documentary, while its production was overseen by Ryan Murphy, Brendan Mason, and Jason Blum from Blumhouse Productions.
The filmmakers obtained extraordinary access to Henschel and Donahue’s lives, encompassing their residence and personal archives. They were also able to interview the couple’s friends and family members, as well as experts on LGBTQ+ history.
According to Bolan, the process of making the documentary was a labor of love. He spent years researching his great-aunt and her partner, and was determined to tell their story in a way that was both respectful and honest.
The filmmakers faced several challenges while making the documentary, including the fact that Henschel and Donahue were in their 90s and not always able to remember details from their past. However, Bolan and his team were able to piece together the couple’s remarkable story using a combination of interviews, archival footage, and reenactments.
Overall, A Secret Love is a powerful and moving tribute to two women who defied societal norms and lived their lives on their own terms. The documentary has been praised for its sensitive portrayal of Henschel and Donahue’s relationship, as well as its exploration of the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people throughout history.
Family Perspectives
Diana Bolan’s Role
As the great-niece of Terry Donahue, Diana Bolan played a crucial role in the making of the Netflix documentary, A Secret Love. Bolan not only directed the film but also served as a caretaker for her great-aunts in their later years.
Bolan’s involvement in the film was a natural fit, given her background in film production and her close relationship with Donahue and Henschel. Bolan was one of the first family members to learn about Donahue and Henschel’s relationship and was instrumental in helping them come out to the rest of the family.
Throughout the filming process, Bolan acted as a confidante and advocate for Donahue and Henschel, ensuring that their wishes and needs were always respected. She also provided practical support, such as helping them move into a new apartment and accompanying them to doctor’s appointments.
Bolan’s perspective on her great-aunts’ relationship is one of acceptance and admiration. In an interview with TIME, she said, “What I love about their story is it’s not just a love story, it’s a story of two women who were able to maintain this incredible bond for over 70 years in a world that was not accepting of who they were.”
Overall, Bolan’s role in A Secret Love was instrumental in bringing Donahue and Henschel’s story to a wider audience and honoring their legacy as trailblazers in the LGBTQ+ community.
Coming Out and LGBTQ Community
The Hidden Love
In “A Secret Love,” Terry Donahue and Pat Henschel’s love story is not just about two people falling in love, but also about the struggles of coming out as a member of the LGBTQ community in a time when it was not accepted. Terry and Pat’s love was hidden for almost seven decades, as they feared the backlash and rejection from their families and society.
The documentary highlights the challenges that many members of the LGBTQ community face when coming out, including the fear of rejection, discrimination, and violence. It also shows how society’s views on homosexuality have evolved over time, but there is still a long way to go.
Despite the progress made in recent years, coming out is still a difficult and emotional process for many members of the LGBTQ community. It is a personal decision that requires courage and support from loved ones.
The documentary also sheds light on the experiences of lesbians, who often face unique challenges when coming out. The stigma and discrimination faced by lesbians can lead to isolation and mental health issues.
Overall, “A Secret Love” is a powerful reminder of the importance of acceptance and support for members of the LGBTQ community. It shows that love knows no boundaries and that everyone deserves to be loved and accepted for who they are.
The Later Years
After coming out and getting married, Pat Henschel and Terry Donahue faced new challenges in their later years. Despite their deep love for each other, they had to deal with declining health and the effects of Parkinson’s disease.
Health Challenges
Pat and Terry’s health issues became more pronounced as they aged. Pat had a stroke in 2011, which made it difficult for her to walk and talk. Terry was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2012 and her condition worsened over time.
Eventually, the couple moved into an assisted living facility in Illinois, where they received the care they needed. However, as their health continued to decline, they eventually had to move into a nursing home.
Despite these challenges, Pat and Terry remained devoted to each other until the end. They passed away within months of each other in 2019, leaving behind a legacy of love and commitment that inspired many.
Wedding and Marriage
The Promise Fulfilled
Terry Donahue and Pat Henschel’s love story is one for the ages. After keeping their relationship a secret for over 70 years, the couple finally tied the knot in a private ceremony in 2015. The wedding was a culmination of their lifelong love and commitment to each other.
The couple had made a promise to each other when they first fell in love in 1947. They promised they would spend the rest of their lives together. Despite the challenges of being a same-sex couple in a time when homosexuality was not accepted, they remained steadfast in their love for each other.
Their wedding ceremony was a beautiful and intimate affair, attended only by close family and friends. Terry wore a white suit and Pat a lavender dress. They exchanged vows in front of a small group of people.
Their marriage was a testament to their love and commitment to each other. They remained devoted to each other until Terry’s passing in 2019. Pat continues to live in the apartment they shared together in Chicago, surrounded by memories of their life together.
Their love story has inspired many, and their wedding was a symbol of hope and love for the LGBTQ+ community. Despite the challenges they faced, Terry and Pat remained true to themselves and to each other, and their love story will continue to inspire generations to come.
Reception and Impact
Critical Response
“A Secret Love” has received widespread critical acclaim for its touching portrayal of the seven-decade-long relationship between Pat Henschel and Terry Donahue. Oprah Winfrey praised the film on her social media accounts, calling it “a beautiful, moving documentary that celebrates love and the human spirit.”
The film has also been positively reviewed by several publications, including OprahMag.com, the Chicago Tribune, and Variety. Critics have praised the film’s emotional depth. As well as its exploration of the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ couples in the mid-20th century.
OprahMag.com’s Elena Nicolaou wrote that “A Secret Love” “is a love story that transcends time and place. It is one that’s particularly resonant in today’s political climate.” The Chicago Tribune’s Nina Metz praised the film for its “genuine warmth and tenderness,” while Variety’s Peter Debruge called it “a heartwarming and heartbreaking tribute.”
Overall, “A Secret Love” has had a significant impact on audiences, many of whom have been moved by Henschel and Donahue’s enduring love story. The film has helped to raise awareness of the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the past, while also celebrating the progress that has been made in recent years.
Where to Watch
If you’re interested in watching A Secret Love on Netflix, you’re in luck. The documentary is available exclusively on the streaming platform. Here are some streaming options to watch the film:
Streaming Options
- Netflix. The documentary is available for streaming on Netflix. If you don’t have a Netflix subscription, you can sign up for a free trial or purchase a subscription to access the film.
- iPhone. If you have an iPhone or iPad, you can download the Netflix app from the App Store and stream the documentary on your device.
- Movies. If you prefer to watch the film on a larger screen, you can use a streaming device such as Apple TV, Roku, or Chromecast to stream the documentary on your TV.
Overall, A Secret Love is a heartwarming and inspiring documentary that explores the lives of two women who kept their relationship a secret for over six decades. The film is a must-watch for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ history and the power of love.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current net worth of Terry Donahue and Pat Henschel?
There is no information available regarding the current net worth of Terry Donahue and Pat Henschel.
Is Pat Henschel still alive?
Yes, Pat Henschel is still alive. She was born on September 11, 1929, and as of August 2023, she is 93 years old.
Where does Pat Henschel currently reside?
Pat Henschel currently resides in an assisted living facility in Edmonton, Canada.
How does A Secret Love conclude?
A Secret Love concludes with the wedding ceremony of Terry Donahue and Pat Henschel. The couple, who had been together for over 70 years, decided to publicly come out and get married in 2015. The documentary also shows the couple’s life after the wedding.
What is the summary of A Secret Love on Netflix?
A Secret Love is a documentary that chronicles the lives of two women, Pat Henschel and pro-baseball player Terry Donahue. They fought against preconceived societal notions to be with each other.
The film captures the couple in their late 80s. After concealing their homosexuality for decades, they make the significant choice to openly reveal their identity and proceed with marriage.
What is the current age of Pat Henschel?
As of August 2023, Pat Henschel is 93 years old.
Conclusion
A Secret Love on Netflix has touched the hearts of many viewers with its heartwarming and emotional story of two women who kept their love a secret for over seven decades.
The documentary has shed light on the struggles of the LGBTQ+ community in the past and the present. And how love can endure even in the most challenging circumstances. The film’s director, Chris Bolan, has done an excellent job of capturing the essence of Terry Donahue and Pat Henschel’s love story.
The documentary provides viewers with an understanding of their lives. And the difficulties they faced as a lesbian couple during an era when homosexuality faced limited acceptance. It also shows how their love for each other has endured through the years. And how they remained devoted to each other until the end.
A Secret Love has also highlighted the importance of family and the support they can provide. The film shows how Terry and Pat’s families have been an integral part of their lives. And how they have accepted and loved them unconditionally. The documentary has also shown how important it is for people to be true to themselves and to live their lives to the fullest, regardless of what society thinks.
In conclusion, A Secret Love is a touching and emotional documentary that has touched the hearts of many viewers. It has provided insight into the struggles of the LGBTQ+ community and the importance of love, family, and acceptance. The documentary has also portrayed how love can endure over time, showcasing the potential to find happiness and fulfillment in life even when faced with challenges.