Tyler Perry’s Beauty in Black star Xavier Smalls has issued an apology to LGBTQ people after he faced widespread backlash for remarks he made on social media. Smalls, who referred to LGBTQ people as an “abomination,” has now released a lengthy statement to apologize.
Actor Xavier Smalls shared a letter apologizing to the LGBTQIA+ community following offensive comments made during his Instagram Live days ago
“My faith teaches me that God loves every single person deeply, and I want my life and my words to reflect that love.” pic.twitter.com/qsx4TjGcr6
— Blackish Press (@blackishpress) March 22, 2026
What did Xavier Smalls say when he insulted LGBTQ people in an Instagram video?
Smalls made his bizarre comments in an Instagram Live video on Feb. 7, according to Entertainment Weekly. The actor compared LGBTQ people to murderers and more, saying they are an “abomination” to society. Smalls faced significant backlash after social media users widely shared screen recordings of his Instagram Live video.
In the Instagram video, Smalls said to his viewers, “God loves you,” and that “he 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, 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,” the actor continued. “Not because he doesn’t love you, but because he’s so holy, he can’t dwell with unholy people.”
An Instagram user who shared a screen recording of the live video asked Smalls during the broadcast if LGBT people are going to hell.
“That goes for other sinners. Scoffers, mockers, liars, all things that are an abomination,” Smalls replied. “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.”
What did Xavier Smalls say in his apology to LGBTQ people?
In his apology letter, Smalls said he reflected on his comments to understand the consequences of his words.
“I have taken the time to listen, really listen, through very different eyes and ears to understand why some people felt judged and dismissed,” he said. “I understand now how my approach may have lacked the love, humility and awareness that I believe God calls us to have.”
The actor said he has gained “greater insight and understanding” after speaking with others who shared their perspective. He also said he has now learned about some tragedies that happened to LGBTQ people as a result of homophobia.
“I take full accountability for the fact that the damage done by my words outweighs the intent behind them,” he said. “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.”
Read the full statement below:
