Karamo Brown, known for his role on "Queer Eye," and actor Jussie Smollett have publicly confirmed their relationship, with the couple sharing a kiss at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on Tuesday.
The public display of affection occurred after the pair were seen together earlier in the day in Los Angeles, engaging in activities like running errands and going for a hike. During their day out, Smollett was observed tenderly stroking Brown's chin.
Brown, 45, has spoken about his new partner, whom he met some time ago but kept private to protect their relationship. In an interview with "Reality with The King," Brown expressed strong feelings for Smollett, referring to him as his "equal" and "forever person." He stated he was "100% sure" Smollett was the one, adding, "I believe this is going to be my husband." Brown described their connection as one where he feels "100% safe" and "100% secure."
The relationship emerges after Smollett, 44, reportedly ended his engagement to Jabari Redd in early June. The couple's relationship is believed to have begun in 2022.
Smollett, who gained fame for his role as Jamal Lyon on the Fox drama "Empire," faced significant public backlash in 2019 after reporting a hate crime that investigators later determined he had staged. He was convicted on five counts related to the false reports in late 2021, though his conviction was later overturned on appeal.
Brown has also recently navigated personal challenges, including a public rift with his "Queer Eye" castmates earlier this year. He explained his absence from promotional interviews by citing a need to protect his "mental health/peace from people or a world who seek to destroy it." He later elaborated that the falling out stemmed partly from a conversation his castmates had about him that his mother overheard, causing him distress. Makes sense. Yes. It made me realize I can no longer stay silent about how often I was made to feel like an outsider."