


Abbott Elementary star Tyler James Williams took to his social media to shut down rumors that he’s gay — as well as address the “dangerous” trend of speculating about one’s sexuality.
Williams — who recently won his first Golden Globe for his role as Gregory Eddie on the hit ABC sitcom — posted a lengthy message on his Instagram Story in light of Pride Month.
“Usually I wouldn’t address stuff like this but I feel like it as a conversation is bigger than me,” he began, per Yahoo Entertainment. “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.”
Williams continued, “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 in our gay brothers and sister and those who may be questioning.”

The Everybody Hates Chris star added that speculation also “reinforces an archetype many straight men have to live under that is often times unrealistic, less free and limits individual expression,” before saying he uses his platform to “push back against those archetypes” every chance he gets.
“Being straight doesn’t look one way. Being gay doesn’t look one way. And what may seem like harmless fun and conversation may actually be sending a dangerous message to those struggling with real issues,” Williams said. “I refuse to inadvertently contribute to that message.”
He concluded his post by wishing a “happy Pride” to all of his “queer questioning brothers, sisters and individuals.”
“I pray that you feel seen in ways that make you feel safe in the celebration that is this month,” Williams wrote. “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.”
Abbott Elementary is available to stream on Hulu.