Kerrion Franklin is an American cinematographer, producer, author, and reality star best known for being the eldest son of legendary gospel singer, Kirk Franklin. He was born on May 7, 1988, in Dallas, Texas, to the singer’s first wife, Shawn Ewing. Franklin’s parents had him when they were teenagers, so the family faced many challenges which resulted in separation. After Franklin grew up, he went to Santa Monica College and graduated with a degree in video and photographic arts.
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Although Franklin isn’t as well-known as his celebrity father, he has earned his place in the entertainment industry. After obtaining his degree, he worked as the director of photography for We Are Pop Culture’s clothing line. He was also a video editor and production manager for several companies, including Dash Films and AR Ferone. In May 2020, Franklin established his own company, Swank Media LLC.
Aside from his artistic ventures, Franklin has graced the silver screen. Over the years, he collected credits by appearing in multiple films, such as “Cartwheel and Backflips,” “Comedy Bit: Trash,” and “Mike: Guy Who Takes Everything Too Literally”. The multi-hyphenate has also dabbled in reality television, appearing in the show “Bad Boys: Los Angeles”. Little did Franklin know that his involvement with the show would actually impact his personal life later on.
While Franklin is praised for his creative pursuits, his scandalous activities seem to overshadow his achievements. Like any other reality star, he is not without his list of controversies. From his rocky relationship with his father to questions surrounding his sexuality, it seems that the tabloids always want to know more. So, is Kerrion Franklin gay? Let’s find out below.
VOTE: What is Kerrion Franklin’s Sexuality?
Kerrion Franklin’s Messy Family History
It’s impossible to talk about Kerrion Franklin’s relationships without mentioning his family. It’s no secret that the reality star’s relationship with his father is far from perfect. According to the award-winning gospel singer, his son has been in and out of therapy for years. However, it was only recently that the cracks in their relationship started to show.
In March 2021, an Instagram leak went viral consisting of a recorded argument between Franklin and his father. In the now-deleted video, Kirk was heard threatening and verbally abusing Kerrion after the latter disrespected him. Although the recording was brief, it immediately garnered intense criticism from the media and the public. Not too long after the video was posted, Kirk shared his thoughts regarding the matter.
The choirmaster admitted that he had a troubled relationship with his son, but they’ve been repairing it through counseling. He added context to the recording and stated that he felt extremely disrespected during the call, which eventually led to him losing his temper. Kirk also revealed that the video was only a snippet and didn’t include the part where their family therapist later joined the call. During the whole debacle, Kirk issued a public apology to enraged fans.
Despite the online leak, the younger Franklin asked the public to stop crucifying his father. His mother, Shawn Ewing, showed support for her son and ex-husband as well. Unfortunately, it won’t be too long until their family is brought under the spotlight again.
In December 2022, Kirk released a family photo without Kerrion, prompting rumors about the singer’s estranged relationship with his son. Surprisingly, Franklin later reposted the picture and stated: “I’m never invited to these pics. Let him enjoy his fantasy.” Fans believed that this was in response to Kirk’s caption which talked about his not-so-perfect family.
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The Reality Star’s Infamous Arrest
Franklin’s post came not long after his arrest in April 2022. Based on the court documents from the Beverly Hills Police, the reality star was arrested while driving on the morning of April 10. Franklin’s car allegedly belonged to a missing woman who was presumed dead. Authorities also discovered a gun in the car although he insisted that he had no connection to the firearm or the missing person.
After his arrest, Franklin spoke in an interview from jail with Larry Reid from Larry Reid Live and claimed that he was “wrongfully detained.” According to the reality star, the charges were piled on after the police officers’ claim of “resisting arrest.” But despite the circumstances, Franklin maintained a positive view of the situation.
I’m just keeping my mind positive. I really do aim to live a righteous lifestyle, all of this is unnecessary. I just want you guys to keep me in your prayers.”
Kerrion Franklin to Larry Reid Live, 2022
Franklin was released on June 1 after spending more than a month in jail. He later posted an update on Instagram where he also mentioned his father. However, Kirk Franklin has not released a statement regarding his son’s arrest and subsequent release.
Kerrion Franklin’s Sexuality
It’s not the first time that Franklin has made headlines. Within the same year of his arrest, the reality star was forced to come out of the closet after he was confronted by his co-stars on “Bad Boys: Los Angeles”. In the show, Franklin was seen conversing with Milan Christopher and Moolah Moe.
The duo repeatedly questioned Franklin’s sexuality, prompting the latter to share that men hit on him all the time and it’s not something that he can “control.” Franklin also revealed that he was polyamorous, which was the complete opposite of monogamous relationships. Apparently, the revelation wasn’t enough for his co-stars and they cornered him with more questions. Franklin was then forced to place a label on his sexuality by stating:
Okay, I’m bisexual. Call me that.”
The pair were surprised by the confession and admitted that they hadn’t expected it, especially considering Franklin’s father and religious background. Franklin also went on social media and reposted his coming out clip, hoping that they can “move on” from the situation with “less questions, more understanding.”
It’s worth noting that his co-stars received tons of backlash for forcing Franklin to reveal his sexuality. People should never be forced, harassed, or bullied into sharing their gender identity.
Is Kerrion Franklin Gay?
Yes, Kerrion Franklin is gay. In the reality show, Bad Boys: Los Angeles, he was forced to reveal his sexuality by his co-stars and confessed that he identifies as bisexual. Franklin also preferred polyamorous relationships to monogamous connections. It’s unclear whether the reality star’s father supports his son regarding this matter considering their very rocky relationship.