‘9-1-1’ Star Ryan Guzman Faces Backlash for Liking Anti-LGBTQ+ ‘Brainwashing’ Post

Ryan Guzman, who portrays firefighter Eddie Diaz on the acclaimed television drama "9-1-1", is at the center of controversy after he was seen liking a post on Instagram that promoted anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric. The post, shared by influencer Billy Morris, asserted that children in the United States are being “brainwashed” by LGBTQ+ people and encouraged parents to homeschool their children to shield them from inclusive education .

The clip claimed schools were teaching children that “there’s 147 genders and that men can give birth,” statements that have been widely debunked by educators and medical experts. Morris, the post’s creator, has a history of spreading right-wing conspiracy theories and anti-LGBTQ+ content, including claims of “escaping the Matrix” and calls for parents to remove their children from public schools .

The response was immediate and intense. LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and allies voiced concern about the influence celebrities wield, especially regarding youth and marginalized communities. Many highlighted that such endorsements, even through a “like”, can legitimize misinformation and fuel harmful stereotypes. “It’s deeply disappointing to see a public figure associated with a show known for its diverse and inclusive storytelling align, even passively, with rhetoric that harms LGBTQ+ youth and families,” said a spokesperson for the Human Rights Campaign .

Fans of "9-1-1", a series praised for its representation of LGBTQ+ characters and storylines, expressed their dismay across social media platforms. Twitter and Instagram saw trending hashtags calling for Guzman to clarify his position, with some urging the network and showrunners to address the controversy directly .

The controversy comes amid rising debates over LGBTQ+ inclusion in schools across the United States. Despite claims in the viral video, there is no credible evidence that public schools are teaching about “147 genders,” nor is it typical for curricula to include the idea that men can give birth in the manner described by the influencer. In fact, several states have enacted laws that restrict or outright ban discussion of LGBTQ+ topics in classrooms, leaving many LGBTQ+ students without the support or validation they need .

Medical and academic authorities have repeatedly affirmed that gender diversity is a natural part of human experience. Notably, trans men and some nonbinary people can and do give birth, as in the well-documented case of Thomas Beatie, who became the first legally recognized man to give birth in 2008 .

The incident has reignited discussions about the responsibilities of actors and other public figures, particularly those involved in media that champions diversity. "9-1-1" has a significant LGBTQ+ fan base and has been celebrated for its portrayal of queer relationships and family dynamics. Many fans noted a disconnect between the values represented on the show and the apparent views reflected in Guzman’s online activity .

As of this writing, neither Ryan Guzman nor representatives from Fox, which airs "9-1-1", have issued a public statement regarding the incident. Advocacy groups have called for a clear response, emphasizing the importance of accountability and education in combatting anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment.

The situation serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ communities in the fight against misinformation, and the role that high-profile individuals play in shaping public attitudes. Many advocates are also using the moment to call for greater support of inclusive education and policies that affirm the dignity and rights of all students, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.