As previously reported, The Upshaws actor Jermelle Simon came out with a heartfelt social media video in October. Since that time, he’s embraced presenting a fuller, more authentic image of his life online. This includes moments with his boyfriend.
In November, Simon revealed to Out magazine that he’s in a relationship with digital content creator Obio Jones.
Jones has 153,000 followers on Instagram and—like Simon—is a 2024 Native Son 101 honoree.
Simon and Jones spent some of the recent holidays on a trip to Las Vegas. A cute video they posted three days ago has earned praise. In some of the footage, they’re wearing matching outfits and giving queer relationship goals.
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“Y’all look like you genuinely enjoy each other’s company. No better place to be,” was one well-liked comment on Instagram.
“Yall got me in my feels 🥹🥰” said another.
Secret Handshake & matching outfits, oh they go together REAL bad. Love to see blk love 💛😍💪🏾
— Cowboy Tamas🤠 (@TBev1218) December 28, 2024
FINALLY a Black Gay couple that is relatable, fun, nice to people, AND genuinely just showcasing us in a positive light ❤️ (luv this ) deadass
— Da REAL King-Ding-A-Ling (@Kamaree10271) December 28, 2024
However, a few people thought the matching outfits were a little cringe, or accused the couple of exploiting their relationship to drive engagement.
This prompted a swift backlash.
Black gay men being mean to a black same sex couple is crazy! After years of begging for representation. This just proves y’all too consumed with envy no matter the situation. https://t.co/hmZPeBoq5I
— Stephen (@TheStevenDwayne) December 28, 2024
We yell for more Black Gay Relationship Representation, and when it shows up it is picked apart by the same community that called for it. Keep shining to the Beautiful Black Couple. ❤️
— Sleevednboujee (@sleevednboujee) December 29, 2024
Why everyone hating on this??? Gay men can be so hateful. I see literally nothing wrong here
— BADDEST ALIVE (@thetirekinge) December 28, 2024
We’re pleased to report that the criticism was vastly outweighed by those who love to see photos and videos of Simon and Jones enjoying their lives together.
New ‘The Upshaws’ landing soon
Earlier this month, Netflix announced that the sixth season of The Upshaws will premiere on January 9, 2025.
The Upshaws launched in 2021. The show centers around a working-class African American family in Indiana. Simon plays the character, Bernard “Bennie” Upshaw Jr.
The season 2 finale of the show in early 2023 revealed the character to be gay.
Simon shared the news of the new season on his social media with a thirsty image teasing what to expect.
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