Crumbl Cookies co-founder Sawyer Hemsley is putting online speculation about his sexuality to rest.
A video from TikToker Grant Gibbs went viral over the weekend when he posted a video captioned "can someone fill me in on the tea with him bc I quite literally have never seen a gayer man" in response to a clip of Hemsley touring his Utah property.
Gibbs' video sparked a ton of conversation, enough for Hemsley to take notice and address the topic himself.
In a post on Instagram, Hemsley wrote, "Over the past little while, there have been people online trying to define me, twist things, and share conversations in ways that feel harmful. Instead of letting others write my story, I want to share it in my own words."
He went on to say, "The truth is, over the past few years I’ve come to understand and accept that I’m gay. It’s taken me a long time to really process this part of myself and even longer to feel comfortable enough to say it out loud."
Hemsley added, "Coming to terms with it has been overwhelming and, at times, scary — but it has also brought me peace, joy, and authenticity that I wouldn’t trade for anything."
Finally, he shares, "At the end of the day, I’m deeply thankful: for the opportunities I’ve had, for the people who support me, and for the chance to live and share my story. It’s a journey of growth and honesty, and one I’ll never stop being grateful for."
Hemsley's comment section was filled with messages of love and support. One person wrote, "Shame on anyone forcing you to speak on this. It's no one's business but your own, but I applaud your bravery and how much you handled this with grace."
Gibbs has since apologized for speculating on Hemsley's sexuality.