Queer Eye’s Jonathan Van Ness Opens Up About ‘Devastating’ HIV Diagnosis

As Gareth went public, he revealed that undisclosed “evil” people had “made his life hell” by threatening to reveal his condition without his consent.

Elaborating further in an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live, the former Wales captain also revealed that it was a journalist who broke the news to his parents.

Gareth has received widespread praise since posting his initial video on social media in which he disclosed his condition, including from Princes William and Harry, who both reached out on Instagram.

A day after the video was posted, Gareth was met with rapturous applause when he completed the mammoth Ironman challenge in Wales, in what he said was part of breaking down stigma and misconceptions around HIV.

Ian Green, chief executive of Terrence Higgins Trust, told HuffPost: “Thank you to Jonathan Van Ness for speaking publicly about living with HIV. 

Jonathan is a brilliant example of how HIV doesn’t have to be a barrier to achieving absolutely anything you want to. He is a shining example of being your authentic self on Queer Eye and a force of nature who always speaks out for what he believes in. 

“As someone living with HIV, I’m excited to see what Jonathan will achieve as a member of our community.

’It’s been quite a week for HIV with rugby’s Gareth Thomas also speaking out about his HIV diagnosis for the first time. While no-one should feel any pressure to be open about their HIV status, role models like Jonathan and Gareth have such a huge impact in updating the public’s knowledge of HIV in showing you can live a long, healthy life.

“Because while medical progress has been huge, stigma and misinformation continue to have a big impact on the lives of people living with HIV.”