Actor Joshua Bassett's acceptance speech at the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards has sparked some heated discourse amongst social media users.
Upon accepting his award for favorite male TV star for his performance as Ricky in High School Musical, Bassett delivered a short sermon to young fans.
He said:
"I want to say something."'
"There are a lot of people here who are burdened, broken-hearted, and have been beaten down by life."
"I'm here to tell you, for those of you who've lost hope, there's a very real God who loves you more than you will ever possibly know."
"His promise is peace and my testimony is my healing."
Bassett continued:
"Remember: forgive quickly, love freely, and walk courageously."
"Love always wins in the end."
You can watch the moment below.
Viewers on Twitter were divided.
Some expressed Bassett should be able to say what he believes.
But many didn't believe the Kids' Choice Awards was the appropriate platform.
Bassett's recent turn to Christianity has been concerning to many fans as the actor previously shared his negative perspective of organized religion and had also been outspoken about the strain religion put on the relationship between him and his parents.
The actor first posted several intensely religious messages on Twitter and Instagram and then was baptized a couple of weeks later at Bethel Church, a megachurch notorious for their anti-LGBTQ+ views as well as their promotion of "conversion therapy."
Bassett's recent acceptance speech resulted in concerned fans speaking out once again.
As of yet, Bassett has made no public statement on his speech.
LBC News/X
@zeldawilliams/Instagram
@zeldawilliams/Instagram