As actor Dylan O’Brien prepares for the release of his upcoming queer drama Ponyboi, he’s unexpectedly found himself at the center of controversy—not for the film itself, but for comments made in a recent interview that touched on his personal connection to the LGBTQ+ community.
In an interview with Vulture, O’Brien reflected on what has informed his empathy and connection to queer narratives. “I have a trans, nonbinary sibling and I know people in my personal life as well who are queer, and I am so grateful for how much it deepens my experience in this world,” he said.
However, soon after those remarks made headlines, O’Brien’s sibling—Julz O’Brien—took to social media with sharp criticism. While acknowledging that Dylan was referring to them, Julz expressed frustration over being included in the narrative without consent. They clarified that they are transmasculine and use he/they pronouns, noting that media outlets had misrepresented their identity and even used their photo without proper context or tagging.
The situation became more emotionally charged when Julz revealed that they and Dylan haven’t been in contact for over a year. “He didn’t check in when I had top surgery. He didn’t even wish me a happy bday last week!” Julz posted in response to a fan comment. “But glad I could deepen his experience in this world and make the world love him that much more.”
Julz’s public statements have ignited broader discussions online about allyship versus performative support, especially when it comes to personal relationships. While many fans were initially touched by Dylan’s interview, the fallout has caused some to question the sincerity behind his words.
Julz also indirectly addressed rumors surrounding Dylan’s girlfriend, responding to a fan comment accusing her of being “homophobic and racist.” Without confirming the claims, Julz pointedly emphasized the lack of personal connection: “He also hasn’t spoken to me in over a year.”
Meanwhile, Ponyboi—a film already receiving praise for its bold representation of queer and intersex characters—seems poised to spark conversation. Dylan O’Brien plays Vinny, a secretive drug dealer involved in a hidden relationship with the titular character, played by intersex actor and co-writer River Gallo. The film also stars Murray Bartlett and Indya Moore and has been celebrated for its authenticity and inclusive casting.
Still, as the film gains attention for its progressive storytelling, the situation with Julz raises tough but necessary questions: Can someone authentically portray allyship on screen if they aren’t showing it in their real life? And who gets to decide what allyship truly looks like?
Only time will tell how the actor responds, but for now, the conversation around Dylan O’Brien is less about the character he plays—and more about the character he demonstrates in his personal life.
