Justice Smith declared he would never date a woman again. He absolutely forbade heterosexual people from calling him gay and explained why. Elon Musk immediately commented on the statement.

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In recent months, actor Justice Smith, known for his roles in films like Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, Detective Pikachu, and the critically acclaimed I Saw the TV Glow, has made headlines with candid statements about his sexuality.

The 30-year-old star, who publicly identified as queer in 2020, has elaborated on his experiences in heterosexual and same-sex relationships, emphasizing personal freedom and rejecting rigid labels. These remarks, shared across interviews and podcasts in late 2025, highlight the nuances of queer identity in a world often quick to categorize.

Smith’s journey into the public eye began with his breakout roles in the mid-2010s, but his personal life gained attention in 2020 when he came out as queer during Black Lives Matter protests.

In an Instagram post, he shared photos with his then-partner, actor Nicholas Ashe, and advocated for greater inclusion of queer and trans Black voices in the movement.

“As a Black queer man myself, I was disappointed to see certain people eager to say Black Lives Matter, but hold their tongue when Trans/Queer was added,” he wrote at the time.

This moment marked Smith not just as an actor, but as a vocal advocate for marginalized identities within larger social justice conversations.

Fast forward to 2025, and Smith has continued to evolve in how he discusses his sexuality.

In a December 2025 podcast appearance, he declared, “I will never date a woman again.” This statement, reported by outlets like Gayety and Instinct Magazine, was not rooted in a lack of attraction but in a desire for relational freedom.

Smith explained that in past heterosexual relationships, he felt pressured to embody traditional masculine roles—acting as “the proverbial big spoon” or the dominant partner. “When I was dating women, I just felt like I always had to be the man in the relationship,” he shared.

In contrast, he finds same-sex relationships liberating because they allow for fluidity: “We both can kind of switch off on what parts of ourselves we’re showing.” This shift, he clarified, stems from rejecting gendered expectations rather than denying bisexuality.

He remains attracted to women but chooses not to pursue those dynamics moving forward.

This declaration resonates with broader discussions in queer communities about how societal norms impose rigidity on relationships. Heteronormativity—the assumption that heterosexuality is the default—often forces individuals into performative roles, particularly along gender lines.

Smith’s experience echoes those of many bisexual or queer people who find that dating within their own gender (or non-binary partners) offers more equality and less pressure to conform.

As noted in his Wikipedia entry updated in late 2025, Smith views heterosexual relationships as “restrictive” due to these pressures, while same-sex ones feel “freeing.” His comments have been praised for promoting self-acceptance and challenging the idea that sexuality must remain static.

Earlier in November 2025, during an appearance on the viral TikTok series Gaydar hosted by actor and drag queen Anania, Smith addressed labeling directly.

When asked how he identifies, he affirmed, “Would you just say you’re queer?” His response delved into why he resists the term “gay” when used by straight people: “I don’t allow straight people to call me gay.” He elaborated that straight individuals often have a “limited definition” of gayness—one that erases fluidity.

For instance, if he mentions an ex-girlfriend, people might respond, “But I thought you were gay!” Smith’s retort: “You’re boring, and you’re basic.” Articles from Them.us, Queerty, and Attitude highlighted this as a “masterclass in queer autonomy,” noting how it pushes back against bisexual erasure.

Even within queer spaces, Smith pointed out, some struggle with multifaceted attraction, but straight perspectives can flatten complex identities into binaries.

This stance isn’t about gatekeeping language but reclaiming narrative control. Queer theory often critiques how dominant (heterosexual) viewpoints impose oversimplified categories, ignoring the spectrum of experiences. Smith’s words align with reclaimed uses of “queer” as an umbrella term that defies strict gay/straight divides.

His performance in I Saw the TV Glow (2024), where he played a genderfluid character, further underscores his comfort with ambiguity. The film’s queer themes—fandom as refuge, identity dissociation—mirror Smith’s real-life reflections on finding solace outside traditional norms.

Public reaction has been largely supportive within LGBTQ+ circles, with fans appreciating his unapologetic honesty. On social media and in commentary, many celebrate him as a role model for younger queer people navigating similar pressures.

However, some critics argue that rejecting certain labels might confuse broader advocacy efforts, though Smith counters this by prioritizing personal truth over external validation.

Smith’s evolving self-description reflects a generational shift among millennials and Gen Z, where fluidity is increasingly normalized. Surveys from organizations like GLAAD show rising identification with non-binary or fluid labels, driven by greater visibility in media. Actors like Smith contribute to this by living openly, refusing to conform for palatability.

Notably absent from recent coverage is any direct response from high-profile figures like Elon Musk, despite speculation in some online circles. Searches across news and social platforms yield no evidence of Musk commenting on Smith’s statements.

This absence underscores that while Smith’s words have sparked meaningful dialogue in queer media, they haven’t crossed into mainstream political controversy.

Looking ahead, Smith continues to thrive professionally, starring in projects like the Now You See Me sequel. His openness about sexuality adds depth to his public persona, inspiring discussions on authenticity.

In an era where identity politics can feel divisive, Smith’s approach—rooted in personal liberation rather than confrontation—offers a refreshing perspective. He reminds us that sexuality isn’t a checkbox but a lived experience, shaped by individual needs and growth.

Ultimately, Justice Smith’s declarations challenge us to expand our understanding of attraction and relationships. By sharing his truth, he not only heals personally but fosters empathy in others. As queer visibility grows, voices like his pave the way for more nuanced conversations, free from restrictive boxes.