Tyler James Williams, the actor of “Abbott Elementary”, spoke out against the speculation about his sexuality at the beginning of Pride Month. He said that the “conversation was bigger than me.”
He wrote, “I am not gay. But I believe the culture that attempts to ‘find out’ hidden traits or behaviors that a closed-minded person has ‘let slip’ in an Instagram story on June 4, is dangerous.” Overanalyzing someone’s behavior to try to “catch” them directly contributes the anxiety that many queer people and those who are queer-questioning feel when they fear to live in their truth.
The actor of “Everybody Hates Chris”, noted that these speculations can make everyday conversations feel “less safe” for those in the LGBTQ community or who are still trying to figure out their sexuality.
He said that this “reinforces a stereotype” which can limit the individual’s expression. The 30-year old said that he wants to use his platform in order to “push against these archetypes.”
Straightness doesn’t have a single look. “Being gay doesn’t appear in one way,” wrote he. What may appear as harmless conversation and fun may send a dangerous message towards those who struggle with real issues. I refuse to unintentionally contribute to this message.
Tyler James Williams warns against “dangerous speculation”
Then he addressed “queer, questioning, brothers, sisters and individuals” with a message and expressed his support. He wrote, “I hope you feel seen and safe during this celebration.”
He concluded his statement by saying, “As a friend I will continue to assist in this where I can. I’ll also help to cultivate an future where everyone is accepted and has permission to be themselves.”
Tyler’s younger brothers Tyrel Jackson, 26, and Tylen Jacqueline Williams, 21, responded to his message.
In a long thread on Twitter, Tyrel, who is known for his roles in “Lab Rats”, “Brockmire”, and “Brickmire”, praised the way his older brother, Tylen, handled his and his own journeys of coming out.
Tyrel wrote: “He completely deconstructed his views about masculinity, and built spaces where we could be comfortable and visible until we were ready/willing to tell our family/friends.” “We rebuilt our definitions of manhood brick by brick, together.” It was hard work. “We weren’t alone in our efforts.”
Tyrel ended his thread by describing his older brother as a “true example of healthy masculinity, and effective allieship.”
Tylen Williams, the youngest Williams brother, posted screenshots of Tyrel’s thread to his Instagram. He used the caption to write a heartfelt note about his older siblings, whom he cited for the reason that he had been able to “well adjust” and be “comfortable with his sexuality.”
Tyler’s unashamed and instantaneous acceptance of me and Tyrels, and his continued support and fighting for us when we needed, even though we thought we couldn’t, says volumes about people like him and the power it is to have an active straight ally.
He ended the message by summarizing his intentions, writing: “Learn to act. Respect others. Show my brothers some love because they are so damn intelligent. And Happy Pride.”
Tyler wrote in a comment to his younger brother, “I love ya kid, and I will drag anyone into hell for you. “Thank you.”
