January 26, 2026 — 5:00am
Jonathan Van Ness, the Emmy-winning American TV personality known for his vibrant presence on the Netflix series Queer Eye, recently opened up about his life, career, and personal beliefs in an exclusive interview. At 38, Van Ness has established himself as a multifaceted entertainer, balancing roles as a hairdresser, author, podcaster, comedian, and activist. His candid discussion with Benjamin Law offers a glimpse into the complexities that shape his world.
Balancing Multiple Careers
Van Ness’s career is a tapestry of diverse roles. When asked why he juggles so many professions, he reveals a personal journey from past struggles to a mission of spreading self-acceptance. “I think I have a little bit of a work compulsion,” he admits. “It used to be drugs and sex, but I don’t do those things like that any more. I feel that my mission statement is spreading self-acceptance by modelling joy and curiosity.”
His passion for his work is palpable, and he advises others to start small when scaling a business. “If you’re not growing, you’re shrinking,” he notes, encapsulating a philosophy of continuous personal and professional development.
Exploring Personal Relationships and Sexuality
Van Ness’s openness extends to his views on sexuality and relationships. Reflecting on his upbringing during the height of the AIDS crisis, he describes the intense and often negative messaging around queer and gay sex. “It attached so much secrecy and shame to sex,” he recalls, noting the significant progress made in reducing stigma today.
When discussing what he finds attractive, Van Ness humorously mentions his preference for a “hairy forearm,” a nod to his enduring attraction to certain masculine archetypes. His husband, Mark, fits this template, and Van Ness expresses excitement about growing older together, finding beauty in the passage of time.
Faith and Resilience
Religion played a significant role in Van Ness’s upbringing, where he was an altar boy in the Episcopal Church. Despite the challenges of reconciling his faith with his identity, he maintains a belief in the coexistence of being Christian and queer. “I believe that we’re all connected in some way,” he states, emphasizing a compassionate interpretation of religious teachings.
However, personal tragedy tested his faith. In 2023, the sudden loss of a close family member deeply affected him. “It was the worst tragedy this generation of our family has faced,” he shares, highlighting the emotional toll and the subsequent journey to regain faith by witnessing his family’s resilience.
The Road Ahead
Looking forward, Van Ness continues to inspire audiences with his upcoming show, Hot & Healed, set to perform at Sydney’s Opera House on February 26 and Melbourne’s Hamer Hall on March 1. His story is one of triumph over adversity, marked by a commitment to authenticity and joy.
For those following Van Ness’s journey, his reflections offer a powerful reminder of the importance of self-acceptance, the strength found in vulnerability, and the enduring impact of love and faith in navigating life’s complexities.
