Celeb & Ent

‘Queer Eye’ Star Jonathan van Ness Says Fame Made Him ‘Depressed and Isolated’

In a candid interview, Jonathan van Ness, the beloved stylist and grooming expert from the hit Netflix series “Queer Eye,” opened up about the darker side of fame and how it has impacted his mental health. While the show catapulted him into the spotlight and garnered him a legion of devoted fans, van Ness revealed that the overwhelming expectations from these fans often felt like a double-edged sword. He shared that the pressure to constantly meet these expectations took a significant toll on his mental well-being, leading to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety.

Van Ness’s journey to fame was not without its challenges. He noted that while he was grateful for the opportunities and visibility that “Queer Eye” provided, the constant scrutiny and demands from fans could be suffocating. He expressed that the persona he presented on the show often felt at odds with his true self, creating a conflict that exacerbated his mental health struggles. For instance, he described moments where he felt compelled to maintain a cheerful and polished exterior, even when he was grappling with his own personal issues. This disconnect between public perception and private reality highlighted the often-unseen pressures that come with being a public figure.

In addition to discussing his mental health challenges, van Ness emphasized the importance of seeking help and being open about one’s struggles. He encouraged his fans to prioritize their mental well-being and to understand that it is okay to not always be “on.” By sharing his story, van Ness aims to destigmatize mental health issues and inspire others to embrace their authentic selves, regardless of societal expectations. His honesty about the burdens of fame serves as a reminder that behind the glitz and glamour, even those in the spotlight battle their own demons, and that vulnerability can be a powerful tool for healing and connection.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQKZqH17PvM