‘Abbot Elementary’ Star Tyler James Williams Responds To Sexuality Rumors: ‘I’m Not Gay’ But I Am An ‘Ally’

Abbot Elementary star Tyler James Williams recently addressed rumors that have been circulating online about his sexuality. He took his message on Instagram to clarify he is not gay but that he feels that these types of rumors can be very destructive and harmful. 

“Usually I wouldn’t address stuff like this but I feel it as a conversation is bigger than me,” he wrote. “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. It also reinforces an archetype many straight men have to live under that is oftentimes unrealistic, less free, and limits individual expression. I’ve been very clear about the intentionality I try to put into using my platform to push back against those archetypes every chance that 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 may actually be sending a dangerous message to those struggling with real issues. I refuse to inadvertently contribute to that message.”

Williams is referring to these types of rumors as “dangerous” because there have been incidents where celebrities felt that they needed to come out to address rumors and not because they felt comfortable.

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He ended his message by saying, “Happy Pride to all of my queer and 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. 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.”

A similar incident occurred last October when Kit Connor came out as bi on Twitter because he felt pressured by fans of the show he stars in, Heartstopper.

He wrote, “Back for a minute. I’m bi. Congrats for forcing an 18-year-old to out himself. I think some of you missed the point of the show. Bye.”

Fans had accused Connor of queerbaiting because he hadn’t defined his sexuality to the public.