Tyler James Williams “Not gay.” The longtime actor confirmed his lack of interest in the same sex in an Instagram post addressing people questioning his sexuality.
Much of his lengthy clapback explained the dangers of “outing” culture—the practice of exposing a queer person’s sexuality. Williams also presented herself as an ally to LGBTQ+ communities—promising to continue fighting for acceptance in the future.
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“Normally, I don’t address things that way, but I think of it as a conversation that’s bigger than me. I’m not gay, but I think there’s some kind of hidden quality or behavior to be discovered.” “The culture of trying is very dangerous,” Tyler wrote. Over-analyzing in an attempt to “catch” someone’s behavior directly contributes to the anxiety a lot of queer people experience and the fear people feel when they are afraid to live in their truth. This is true of our gay brothers and sisters and Feels less safe for those who may inquire.
Tyler James says ‘outing’ culture also limits straight men’s ‘personal expression’
Williams states that ‘outing’ culture does not just affect queers and queer questioning people but straight men and their freedom of expression.
“It also reinforces an archetype under which many straight men have to live that is often unrealistic, less liberating, and limits personal expression. I have been very clear about my intention to use my platform to push back against those bigots every chance I get. Being straight doesn’t look one way. Being gay doesn’t look one way. And what may seem like harmless fun and conversation can actually send a dangerous message to people struggling with real issues. I unwittingly refuse to contribute to that message.
In the midst of Tyler’s message cycle, Fly was causing a stir online for the yellow and blue nail polish — a beauty trend typically marketed to women. Twitter reactions ranged from support to homophobic comments.
The online slam appears to be directly to Tyler’s message about ‘outing’ culture limiting the creative expression of men.
Keep Scrolling To See Some Of The Backlash Drake Got
omg wasn’t expecting drake with nail polish 💅🏼 but i love it 💛 he also says there could be a world tour in the future 🤯😮💨 @drake pic.twitter.com/Ha7c0Oajds
— Flacciata 💘 (@jadedfreestyle) June 4, 2023
Went on Instagram and saw Drake wearing nail polish… pic.twitter.com/7fFSVc9Br9
— yo$h (@jay__authentic) June 4, 2023
yeah drake lost his mind with that nail
polish shit 🤮— Krishawn Clark (@Ohio_Shawn) June 4, 2023
drake rocking nail polish 😩 i actually whisper with his music man the devil is real and the money really just talks for clout 💭 sad for his fans don’t like that shit and you’re here anytime his Won’t see the music, sorry guys! rapdatmusic will never post transgender or gay music… pic.twitter.com/WHUY4Mamyd
– Wrap Dat Music (@WrapDatMusic) June 5, 2023
Drake wore nail polish, didn’t he? i’m not surprised but wtf lol.. never thought i’d see the day all men started wearing nail polish 😂😂 so crazy
– Rarity ❤️🔥 (@ShotsofMello) June 4, 2023
Drake, wearing painted nails, is helping to advance an agenda of emasculating black men. He was paid to do this, I can’t see any straight man just want to put on nail polish.
— Jus D (@OfficialjusD) June 4, 2023
Drizzy Drake you inspired a lot of styles and we appreciate it. But the matter stops at this nail polish. This is where you pass the torch to the Big Dog. we have lost you
– Prize 🏅 (@marcxprize) June 4, 2023
Drake wearing nail polish >> men wearing nail polish >>
— miisstropicana (@miisstropicana) June 4, 2023
Williams wishes queer and queer questioning people a happy Pride Month
The “Everybody Hates Chris” actor ended his Instagram Story post with a message for those who identify with the LGBTQ+ community.
“Proud to all my queer and questioning brothers, sisters and individuals. I pray that you feel safe in celebration this month. As an ally, I continue to commit to helping where I can and helping to develop a future where we are all accepted and allowed to be ourselves,” Tyler James wrote.