Dylan O’Brien recently garnered attention during an interview with Gay Times in which he expressed gratitude for his “trans, nonbinary sibling,” noting that having queer people in his life has helped “deepen [his] experience in this world.” His comments appeared heartfelt and positioned him as someone closely connected to and supportive of LGBTQ+ individuals, especially within his own family. However, the interview has since sparked backlash, not from the public, but from his own brother.
Dylan O’Brien’s Allyship Questioned After Estranged Brother Disputes Interview Claims
Julz, Dylan’s brother, who uses he/they pronouns and is active on Instagram, reacted strongly to the interview. In a comment on Gay Times’ post about the story, Julz clarified that he is “actually trans masc,” not nonbinary, correcting Dylan’s public characterization. He also made a more cutting revelation: the brothers haven’t spoken in over a year, even during important personal milestones such as Julz’s top surgery and his recent birthday.

Julz’s tone in his response was sarcastic and emotionally charged. He wrote, “But glad I could deepen his experience in this world and make the world love him that much more 😏.” This pointed remark suggests a sense of betrayal or frustration at being used, perhaps inadvertently, as a token in Dylan’s public expression of allyship. It underscores the emotional gap between the brothers and casts doubt on the authenticity of Dylan’s portrayal of their relationship.
Dylan O’Brien Faces Backlash After Brother Disputes Interview Remarks
This fallout comes at a time when Dylan is promoting his new movie Ponyboi, which tells the story of an intersex sex worker. Given the film’s themes, some speculate that Dylan may have emphasized his familial connection to the queer community in an effort to bolster his credibility as an ally. The timing has led some to question whether his interview comments were more performative than personal.
As of now, Dylan O’Brien has not responded publicly to his brother’s claims or to requests for comment. The situation has left fans and observers curious about the true nature of the actor’s relationship with his brother and whether reconciliation—or at least acknowledgment—will follow. What began as a statement of pride has now evolved into a very public family rift.