Jonathan Van Ness reveals he's HIV-positive

The New York Times

The Queer Eye star previewed his upcoming memoir Over the Top to The New York Times, revealing he's a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, his past as a drug and sex addict and that he's an out-and-proud “member of the beautiful H.I.V.-positive community.” “When Queer Eye came out, it was really difficult because I was like, ‘Do I want to talk about my status?,” Van Ness told The Times. “And then I was like, ‘The Trump administration has done everything they can do to have the stigmatization of the L.G.B.T. community thrive around me.’” He paused before adding, “I do feel the need to talk about this.” Van Ness explains he learned about his HIV status at age 25 while working in a hair saloon. "That day was just as devastating as you would think it would be,” he writes in his memoir, which will be released on Tuesday. Van Ness responded to his revelation on Instagram Saturday, writing: "Having the opportunity to write my book and share my story with you is the most important opportunity I’ve ever had" and adding that "I’m relieved I can speak fully about the things that shape my experience in life." ALSO: Van Ness' Queer Eye colleagues send him their support.