Actor Tyler James Williams has taken to social media to respond to rumours surrounding his sexuality.
The 30-year-old - who starred as Chris Rock in the semi-autobiographical sitcom Everybody Hates Chris - has shut down any rumours which may have been swirling online about his sexuality.
In a post to his Instagram story a few days into Pride month, Williams has also raised awareness of the dangers of speculating about someone's sexuality and the impact it can have on someone's mental health.
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Williams noted he 'wouldn't usually address stuff like this,' but feels like 'as a conversation' it's 'bigger than [him]'.
The statement continues: "I’m not gay, but I think the culture of trying to ‘find’ some kind of hidden trait or behavior that a closeted person ‘let slip’ is very dangerous.
"Overanalyzing someone’s behavior in an attempt to 'catch' them directly contributes to the anxiety a lot of queer and queer-questioning people feel when they fear living in their truth. It makes the most pedestrian of conversations and interactions in spaces feel less safe for our gay brothers and sisters and those who may be questioning.
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"It also reinforces an archetype many straight men have to live under that is oftentimes unrealistic, less free, and limits individual expressing."
The star explained he's always tried to use his platform as an actor to 'push back against those archetypes every chance [he gets]'.
"Being straight doesn't look one way. Being gay doesn't look one way," he adds. "And what may seem like harmless fun and conversation may actually be sending a dangerous message to those struggling with real issues. I refuse to inadvertently contribute to that message."
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Fans of the actor have flocked to social media in support, condemning anyone who speculates or spreads rumours about him.
One Twitter user said: "I will never understand why people obsess about the sexual proclivities of people they have no access to."
"In 2023, why is someone else’s sexuality still a talking point for people? Y’all don’t think it’s weird to speculate on someone’s sexuality especially if you don’t know them?" another echoed.
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Williams wished all his 'queer and questioning brothers, sisters and individuals,' a happy Pride month.
The statement concludes: "I pray that you feel seen in ways that make you feel safe in the celebration that is this month. As an ally I continue to be committed to assisting in that where I can and helping to cultivate a future where we are all accepted and given permission to be ourselves."
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact the LGBT Foundation on 0345 3 30 30 30, 10am–6pm Monday to Friday, or email [email protected]
Topics: Celebrity, Sex and Relationships, Film and TV, Social Media, Instagram
Poppy Bilderbeck