“Big Bang Theory” Star Calls Decision to End 988 Lifeline’s Tailored LGBTQ Support “Literally Criminal”
Jim Parsons, the acclaimed star of “The Big Bang Theory,” has vocally criticized the Donald Trump administration’s recent decision to dismantle a specialized crisis hotline service designed to support LGBTQ youth and young adults.
During a recent appearance on MSNBC’s The Weekend, Parsons condemned the move to discontinue the 988 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline’s LGBTQ-specific service on July 17. “I think it’s quite literally criminal,” Parsons stated emphatically. “It’s one of the kinds of decisions that you’re like, ‘There’s no good reason for it.’ It doesn’t matter what reason you ever put towards it or say it’s the reason it’s happening, it’s never going to be justified.”
The openly gay actor, who is married to Todd Spiewak, further elaborated on his strong disapproval: “It is only hurtful and it feels like it’s only being done in order to make a point, we’re getting rid of this because we want to make sure certain people understand they’re not welcome here.”
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the LGBTQ youth program served over 1.4 million callers since its inception in September 2022. As of July 17, callers to the 988 Lifeline no longer have the option to “Press 3” for specialized LGBTQ support.
Following the announcement that the Trump administration would be discontinuing this dedicated service, SAMHSA released a statement. It affirmed, “Everyone who contacts the 988 Lifeline will continue to receive access to skilled, caring, culturally competent crisis counselors who can help with suicidal, substance misuse, or mental health crises, or any other kind of emotional distress. Anyone who calls the Lifeline will continue to receive compassion and help.”