January 26, 2026 — In a candid conversation with Benjamin Law, Jonathan Van Ness, the Emmy-winning American TV personality known for his role on Netflix’s Queer Eye, opens up about the complexities of life, from career choices to personal beliefs. At 38, Van Ness continues to captivate audiences not only with his vibrant personality but also with his multifaceted career as an author, podcaster, comedian, and hairstylist.
Balancing Multiple Careers
When asked why he juggles so many roles, Van Ness attributes it to a “work compulsion” that replaced past struggles with drugs and sex. “I feel that my mission statement is spreading self-acceptance by modeling joy and curiosity,” he explains. This passion fuels his diverse career, allowing him to engage in activities he loves.
Reflecting on financial wisdom, Van Ness offers a piece of advice: “When you’re scaling a business, if you’re not growing, you’re shrinking. So start small.” Despite his financial success, he admits to simple indulgences, like spending a spontaneous hundred dollars on cookies.
Exploring Sexuality and Relationships
Van Ness’s openness extends to discussions about sexuality. Growing up during the AIDS crisis, he was confronted with intense, shameful messaging about queer and gay sex. “It attached so much secrecy and shame to sex,” he recalls, but notes that today’s environment is more accepting, allowing young queer people to engage in healthy, safe relationships.
His attraction to certain types of men has remained consistent over the years. “Principal. Senator. Daddy. That’s still very much my arousal template. I want a hairy forearm,” he shares. His husband, Mark, fits this template perfectly, and Van Ness appreciates how age has only enhanced their relationship.
Faith and Personal Growth
Religion played a significant role in Van Ness’s upbringing, with regular church attendance and summers spent at a Christian sports camp. Despite the challenges of reconciling his queer identity with his faith, he believes in the compatibility of being Christian and queer. “I believe that Jesus of Nazareth is our Saviour and if everything I’ve learnt is true, he’s going to be so mad about how some people are treating other people right now,” he asserts.
Van Ness also touches on personal doubts and resilience. “I might have insecurities, but the question is, how do you treat yourself through the insecurity?” he asks. His ability to overcome fears and achieve the seemingly impossible is a testament to his inner strength.
Coping with Loss and Finding Faith
In 2023, Van Ness faced a profound loss with the sudden death of a close family member, which shook his faith. “It was the worst tragedy this generation of our family has faced,” he confides. Yet, witnessing his brother and his children continue the legacy of his sister-in-law has helped restore his faith in the world.
Van Ness’s journey is a testament to resilience and the power of joy and curiosity in overcoming life’s challenges. As he prepares to bring his show, Hot & Healed, to Sydney’s Opera House and Melbourne’s Hamer Hall, audiences can expect an experience filled with humor, insight, and inspiration.
Benjamin Law, a writer, presenter, screenwriter, and playwright, continues to explore the private lives of public figures, offering readers a glimpse into the human side of celebrity.
