Queer Eye’s Jonathan Van Ness taking time to ‘rest up’ after sharing HIV positive diagnosis

‘Feeling so much love and support’

(Getty Images for Netflix)

Jonathan Van Ness has revealed he’s taking a few days to “rest up” following the revelation that he is HIV positive.

On Saturday, The New York Times published extracts from the Queer Eye star’s upcoming memoir, Over the Top, in which he shares that he was diagnosed with HIV at the age of 25.

“That day was just as devastating as you would think it would be,” Van Ness writes of his diagnosis, which he said was delivered at a Planned Parenthood clinic one day after he fainted while he was at work in a hair salon.

The 32-year-old Netflix star explained he hoped going public with his health struggles would help tackle some of the stigma surrounding those living with HIV.

On Saturday evening, Van Ness published a note on his Instagram Story thanking fans for their support.

“Feeling so much love and support,” he wrote before explaining he was going to take some time out to be with his family and his new kittens, whom he refers to as “bittens”.

“Taking the next few days to rest up, spend time w my bittens and mom before the book tour get going.. I know it’s going to be a lot of hard work but I’m ready [sic].

“Just want to say thank you all so much especially my Queer Eye family and countless other friends and family for reaching out today.”

Hundreds of fans and fellow celebrities have left supportive comments on Van Ness’s Instagram posts following his revelation on Saturday, including model Tess Holliday, Instagram’s Eva Chen and One Tree Hill star Sophia Bush, who wrote: “Just adore you. Fully and completely. We’re all lucky to have you.”