A Netflix actor is facing strong online backlash after a video resurfaced showing him making controversial statements about religion and the LGBTQ+ community. Xavier Smalls, who plays the character Angel in Tyler Perry’s drama series “Beauty In Black,” is being criticized for comments made during a social media live broadcast.
The video, originally recorded in February, began circulating widely on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok around March 19, 2026, coinciding with the release of new episodes of the Netflix series. In the clip, Smalls shares his personal religious views, stating that while God loves everyone, individuals who “live in sin” cannot enter heaven.
The Controversial Live Stream Comments
The controversy stems from a live broadcast Smalls reportedly did on his Instagram page on February 7, 2026. In the screen recording that went viral, Smalls tells his followers that God loves all his children, including atheists and those living in what he calls sin. However, he quickly adds a caveat about the afterlife.
“But, he’ll send you to hell, because when you die, there’s only two places, right? And if you live in sin on this earth, he’s so holy, he’s so grand beyond our imagination, you can’t kick it with him in heaven,” Smalls stated in the video.
The discussion became more heated when a viewer in the comments section asked specifically about LGBTQ+ individuals. Smalls responded by comparing being gay to other actions he considers sinful.
“Not because he doesn’t love you but because he’s so holy. He can’t dwell with unholy people and that goes for other sinners. Scoffers and mockers, liars, all things that are abomination. It’s not just the LGBTQ. It’s if you are drunk, like if you are an alcoholic, if you are murderer like, these are all sins that God doesn’t tolerate.”
Fans and Viewers React Strongly
The resurfaced video has sparked a massive reaction across social media. Many users are criticizing Smalls for his remarks, especially given the context of his role on “Beauty In Black,” where he plays a male stripper.
One of the most viral reactions came from a user who pointed out the irony in the situation. “He plays a stripper guys,” the user wrote, mocking the idea that Smalls is preaching morality while portraying a character in a show that deals with adult themes.
Others expressed disappointment with the actor’s choice to use his platform for what they see as divisive rhetoric. A user on X commented on the nature of the discourse:
“I wish Christians, especially like these ones, could focus their energy more on spreading positivity and good deeds instead of using their clout to chastise others.”
The discussion also took a theological turn, with some users debating the consistency of Smalls’ logic. One user pointed out the perceived unfairness of condemning someone for their sexuality while forgiving violent criminals who claim faith later in life.
“I’ll say this. Many won’t like it But if someone say like Jeffrey Dahmer can get into heaven (according to records he found God in prison) Then some man who lived a good life. Loved his neighbors. Helps. But was gay. And goes to hell? Nah. He’s not a good God. Not close.”
Another user directly questioned the separation between Smalls’ professional work and personal beliefs, writing: “So he’s out here playing a gay stripper on Netflix but preaching no gays in heaven… bro really said ‘I’ll act it but I won’t live it’ Where do we draw the line between job & beliefs?”
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Background on Smalls and the Netflix Series
Xavier Smalls is a rising actor who graduated from Sacramento State University in 2020 and trained at New York’s William Esper Studio. His role in “Beauty In Black” has been one of his biggest career breaks to date. Created by Tyler Perry, the Netflix drama follows two women whose lives collide in dramatic ways within the beauty industry.
In a January 2026 interview, Smalls discussed his character Angel, describing the role as both fun and challenging due to the emotional range required. The series, which premiered in October 2024, has already been renewed for a third and final season. The second part of season two arrived on Netflix on March 19, 2026, adding eight new episodes to the streaming platform.
Interestingly, “Beauty In Black” has featured several LGBTQ+ cast members since its debut. Ts Madison, a prominent trans personality and RuPaul’s Drag Race judge, appeared in the series across five episodes between seasons 1 and 2.
As the video continues to spread, Smalls has not publicly addressed the backlash. Representatives for the actor, Netflix, and Tyler Perry have not yet released statements regarding the controversy.
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