Sawyer Hemsley, co-founder of the successful cookie company Crumbl, has been commended for his candid statement about his sexuality.
Hemsley, who established the business with his cousin Jason McGowan in 2017 during his time at Utah State University, has seen remarkable growth in the company. Crumbl has expanded to over 1,000 locations in the United States, 18 in Canada, and plans to open new stores in Australia.
The brand has gained a substantial following with its rotating menu of oversized, decadent cookies and items like the Dubai chocolate brownie. Collaborations with celebrities such as the Kardashians and the Jonas Brothers have further increased Crumbl’s popularity.
On Tuesday, August 26, Hemsley made a significant personal revelation on Instagram, sharing that he is gay.
For a while, Hemsley had been the subject of speculation on platforms like TikTok and Reddit, where users analyzed his appearance and behavior.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Hemsley addressed the rumors, stating: “Over the past little while, there have been people online trying to define me, twist things, and share conversations in ways that feel harmful. Instead of letting others write my story, I want to share it in my own words.”
He elaborated: “The truth is, over the past few years I’ve come to understand and accept that I’m gay. It’s taken me a long time to really process this part of myself and even longer to feel comfortable enough to say it out loud.
“For most of my life, I didn’t have the clarity to answer the questions or respond to the rumors. Coming to terms with it has been overwhelming and, at times, scary – but it has also brought me peace, joy, and authenticity that I wouldn’t trade for anything.”
Hemsley also mentioned his upbringing, stating that he ‘grew up with values and beliefs’ that he still cherishes, which made this journey more complex.
He concluded: “At the end of the day, I’m deeply thankful: for the opportunities I’ve had, for the people who support me, and for the chance to live and share my story. It’s a journey of growth and honesty, and one I’ll never stop being grateful for.”
Supportive messages poured in from fans, who praised Hemsley for his openness.
“It must feel so good, glad you’re living your authentic self,” one person commented. Another added: “This is brave!! Proud of you!”
A third person wrote: “LOVE YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS!! Brave! Classy! Respectable. You are the best.”
However, some social media users criticized the speculation that pushed him to come out.
One user remarked: “Truly, the only person who deserved to hear your narrative is you, yet I applaud the integrity to shut down those who feel the need to whisper about you or your life. Good job, Sawyer.”
Another chimed in: “Shame on anyone forcing you to speak on this. It’s no one’s business but your own, but I applaud your bravery and how you handled this with such grace.”
On X, formerly known as Twitter, someone expressed: “It’s disgusting and shameful that speculating about someone’s sexuality has become something to do for views on social media as a ‘gotcha!’ moment.
“If you are someone who publicly speculates about someone’s sexuality who hasn’t openly shared it, you are not an ally or safe person to LGBTQ+ people, many of whom haven’t shared their identity out of fear of retribution from loved ones, or worse.
“It is not okay to out people. Ever. Let people share their identity on their own terms. Sending love to [Hemsley].”
Hemsley joins other public figures, such as Heartstopper’s Kit Connor and Euphoria’s Lukas Gage, who have had to address their sexuality in light of online speculation.