Xavier Smalls is facing backlash after a video from a February livestream resurfaced online.
The actor, known for his role on Beauty in Black, made comments during the broadcast that quickly drew criticism after the clip went viral on social media. In the video, Smalls speaks about faith and sin, telling viewers, “God loves you… whether you live in sin… he still loves you.”
He continued, “If you live in sin on this earth… you can’t kick it with him in heaven.”
During the livestream, a viewer asked whether his comments applied to LGBTQ people. Smalls responded by grouping multiple behaviors together, saying, “That goes for other sinners… if you’re drunk… if you’re a murderer… these are all sins that God doesn’t tolerate.”
@netflix ‘Beauty In Black’ star ‘Xavier Smalls’ says on his Instagram live that members of the LGBTQ+ community are going to hell because they lived their life in sin. Can someone tell me why this man is still on our TV screens? @tylerperry @netflix #beautyinblack pic.twitter.com/pns4uAEjKc
— Paul Poulos Jr. (@MonsterStarGaga) February 8, 2026
The clip, originally shared Feb. 7, resurfaced more than a month later and quickly went viral, prompting strong reactions from viewers. Many criticized the remarks, while others debated the context of the statements.
Representatives for Smalls and Netflix have not publicly commented.
Smalls recently completed a multi-season run on the series created by Tyler Perry, which has featured a diverse cast since its debut.
Fans are waiting for his response, anticipating the star will walk back his comments.