Xavier Smalls is speaking out and apologizing to his supporters after his comments regarding religion, sin, and LGBTQ people sparked major backlash online… especially since he plays a gay man on Tyler Perry’s Beauty in Black. Fans were quick to call him out, accusing him of being hypocritical given the role that helped boost his visibility.
What he said that had everybody talking
Last month, Smalls hopped on Instagram Live and started talking about God, sin, and who makes it into heaven. At first, it sounded like he was coming from a place of love. He told viewers:
“God loves all his children, whether you’re an atheist, whether you curse him, whether you live in sin. Whether you’re drunk, smoke weed, whatever, he still loves you.” But then the message took a turn:
“But, he’ll send you to hell, because when you die, there’s only two places, right? And if you live in sin on this earth, he’s so holy, he’s so grand beyond our imagination, you can’t kick it with him in heaven. Not because he doesn’t love you, but because he’s so holy, he can’t dwell with unholy people.”
Things really escalated when someone asked him directly about LGBTQ people. Smalls responded:
“That goes for other sinners. Scoffers, mockers, liars, all things that are an abomination. It’s not just the LGBT. If you’re drunk, if you’re an alcoholic, if you’re a murderer, these are all sins that God doesn’t tolerate.”
Clearly, that response didn’t sit right with a lot of folks. Social media lit up, and many fans pointed out the contradiction between his words and the character he portrays on-screen.
Beauty In Black 'actor', Xavier Smalls says God will not allow the gays into heaven:
"Not because he [God] doesn't love you, but he's so holy he can't dwell with unholy people. And that
goes for other sinners…not just the LGBT…" pic.twitter.com/QYMW2XyRXf— Red Media (@RedMedia_us) March 19, 2026
Now that the clip has resurfaced and the backlash grew louder, Smalls has returned with a public apology.
He started by admitting he had to go back and actually listen to himself from a different perspective:
“After looking back at what I said on my Instagram Live, I have taken the time to listen, really listen, through very different eyes and ears to understand why some people felt judged and dismissed. I understand now how my approach may have lacked the love, humility, and awareness that I believe God calls us to greater insight and understanding.”
Then he shared that people helped him understand the real-life consequences tied to these kinds of messages:
“They also made me aware of some horrible things that have happened in the past, including the suicide rates among gay teens, the stories of people like Tyler Clementi, and the nine-year-old boy Jamel Myles. They helped me better understand that in some parts of this world people are still bullied, harmed, and even killed because they are gay. Hearing these stories helped me see more clearly why words can carry so much weight.”
He went on to make it clear he wasn’t trying to hurt anyone:
“Allow me to be very clear about my heart and intentions. Nothing I shared was meant to condemn or harm anyone. Every human being deserves dignity, compassion, and most importantly love.”
But he didn’t dodge accountability:
“I take full accountability for the fact that the damage done by my words outweighs the intent behind them. I truly regret that my words caused pain, and I pray that you are able to see my heart in the midst of all of this.”
He also emphasized what he believes his faith should reflect:
“My faith teaches me that God loves every single person deeply, and I want my life and my words to reflect that love.”
“I appreciate my friends, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community, who cared enough about me to speak honestly and help me see things from their perspective. I am still learning, and I will continue to learn and grow.” He closed with a direct apology: “I am truly sorry for any pain or hurt that my words caused. Please do not let anyone make you feel less than, including me. I will do better. Love, Xavier”