‘The Upshaws’ star Jermelle Simon comes out in powerful video

Jermelle Simon, best known for his role in Netflix’s ‘The Upshaws,’ comes out in empowering video.

According to ‘Queerty’, the 35-year-old actor publicly came out as gay in an endearing video shared on October 11, in celebration of National Coming Out Day.

“I have decided that I am enough, I want to thank everyone who has helped me to get to that place where I feel seen, where I feel like I belong, where I feel loved,” expressed Simon, whose character Bernard Junior revealed he was gay in the first season of the Netflix series. “Thank you for providing a space where I can come on the internet and say I am a Black gay man.”

His post was captioned with a powerful James Baldwin quote: “You have to go the way your blood beats. If you don’t live the only life you have, you won’t live some other life, you won’t live and life at all.”

In addition to wishing himself a Happy National Coming Out Day, Simon addressed those who feel it’s their time to come out, those who think it may happen later, and those who may never come out.

“I’ve decided to embrace myself fully, all the parts of me,” he explained.

“I’ve decided to love myself unconditionally. I’ve decided that the one thing that I thought was the biggest curse in my life is actually the biggest blessing I could ever receive.”

The comment section quickly filled with supportive messages from friends, fans, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

His Upshaws co-star and lesbian icon Wanda Sykes commented, “Love you Jermelle! (PROUD AUNTIE) 🏾 🌈,” and queer comedian Kalen Allen added humorously: “Welcome! Your initiation will be next week. Don’t be late! Your supply list can be found on Grindr!”

In another post, he expressed humble gratitude for the love he received, along with a stylish look: “Thank you. ”

Simon’s coming out was particularly meaningful given his character’s significant queer storyline, which marked a milestone for queer and Black representation.

As he mentioned in a 2023 interview with Gaye Magazine, he received “love and support” from LGBTQ+ fans after the series revealed his character's sexuality.

“Bernard has helped so many people and helped them with their confidence and brought light to a lot of coming out journeys,” he said at the time. “As an actor and an artist, I’m happy this role will help heal someone and help someone feel seen.”

Simon’s touching message and courageous step serve as a strong reminder of the significance of National Coming Out Day, and we embrace him wholeheartedly!

Read related myGwork articles here:

‘X-Factor’ winner Matt Terry comes out

Brazilian Actor Amaury Lorenzo Comes Out: “I Consider Myself A LGBTQIA+ Man”

Actor Ncuti Gatwa Comes Out as Queer

Wayne Brady Comes Out As Pansexual: “Free To Love Whomever I Want”

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