Joshua Bassett Opens Up About Toxic Masculinity in Candid Post

Joshua Bassett is getting real about toxic masculinity.

The 20-year-old High School Musical: The Musical: The Series star shared a post on Instagram Monday (May 11) about defying societal expectations placed on men.

Click inside to his post…

“I, like most men I know, was taught to NOT cry growing up. I was forced to suppress my ‘sensitive side’,” Joshua wrote, alongside a video of himself singing “Boys Don’t Cry”.

“But here’s the thing,” he continued. “Suppressing your emotions as a child will crush your spirit and bury your heart alive. I wholeheartedly believe this is the root of the majority of toxic masculinity and the empathetic epidemic in most males today.”

Joshua then recalled being “belittled by influential adults and peers” who contributed to his own negative perception of being emotional and vulnerable.

“Instead of allowing your deep sadness to turn into bitterness, anger and violence: maybe grab some Kleenex and cry it out. Let your guard down. Be bold enough to be vulnerable. You’re safe to do so now,” he said.

He concluded the post, “You, your mother, sister, daughters and future daughters depend on it. Numb is no way to live. We must end the cycle. We absolutely must. #CryingIsCool.”

Joshua recently made headlines for seemingly coming out while discussing Harry Styles.