Embracing Authenticity: Actor Jermelle Simon's Journey as Bernard in 'The Upshaws
Actor Jermelle Simon reflects on his transformative role as Bernard "Benny" Upshaw Jr. in the Netflix sitcom "The Upshaws." The character's journey from a closeted man to embracing his identity as a gay man paralleled Simon's own personal growth and coming out experience. Simon credits the character of Bernard for inspiring him to live authentically and express himself freely.
Throughout the five seasons of "The Upshaws," audiences witnessed Bernard's evolution, from repairing relationships to navigating parenthood and entrepreneurship. In the final season, Bernard finds stability in his relationship with Hector and embraces fatherhood. Offscreen, Simon's journey mirrored his character's growth, as he publicly came out on social media and shared his relationship with Obio Jones, whom he married in October.
Simon's path to acting began in South Carolina and led him to pursue his passion despite challenges. He juggled acting with parenting and various jobs before landing the role of Bernard in "The Upshaws." The character's arc resonated with Simon, who found a personal connection to Bernard's struggles with his sexuality and fear of self-acceptance.
The conclusion of Bernard's story in the final season of "The Upshaws" brought closure for Simon, who felt a sense of fulfillment in portraying the character. Despite initial reluctance to let go of the role, Simon embraced the character's journey and bid farewell to Bernard with gratitude and satisfaction.
On the last day of filming, Simon faced a personal loss with the passing of his grandmother. The cast and crew provided support and comfort during a challenging time, reinforcing the bond they shared on set. Simon also had the opportunity to act alongside his real-life partner, Obio Jones, in the series, adding a special dimension to their relationship.
As newlyweds, Simon and Jones opted for an intimate wedding ceremony to celebrate their love in a private setting. The decision to keep the ceremony personal reflected their desire to prioritize their relationship and authenticity over external expectations. Simon's journey with "The Upshaws" and his personal growth highlight the power of storytelling and self-discovery in shaping one's identity and relationships.