Why is James Charles under fire during Kayla Malec and Evan Johnson case? Complete drama explained

Gurus Magazine
Why is James Charles under fire during Kayla Malec and Evan Johnson case? Complete drama explained (Image via Getty)

Beauty influencer James Charles is facing serious backlash online due to his involvement in the Kayla Malec and Evan Johnson case. Kayla Malec, a fellow influencer and former friend of Charles, accused her ex-boyfriend Evan Johnson of domestic violence. Johnson was later arrested and convicted.

The drama escalated after people began to question Charles’ relationship with Johnson during the investigation. Allegations surfaced that Charles may have continued supporting or even housing Johnson after the abuse claims became public. This raised concerns about Charles’ loyalty and judgment.

Many fans and creators have criticized Charles for staying silent for too long. His late response was seen as lacking responsibility. This controversy has resulted in many people unfollowing him and speaking out online.


Did James Charles support Evan Johnson after the abuse allegations?

American Influencer Awards - Arrivals - (Image via Getty)
American Influencer Awards - Arrivals - (Image via Getty)

As reported by MixVale on May 7, 2025, the controversy began when Kayla Malec shared that Evan Johnson had abused her during their relationship. Johnson was later arrested and found guilty.

Zack Sellars, a former friend of Johnson, gave a public interview, claiming that Charles provided Johnson a place to stay in Los Angeles during the investigation. Sellars also alleged that Charles and Johnson might have had a romantic or se*ual relationship.

As the legal case moved forward, alleged assertions by TikTok creators close to Malec, as well as her sister, surfaced against Charles for supporting Johnson behind the scenes.

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How did James Charles respond to the allegations?

Initially, James Charles posted a story on TikTok on May 6 condemning Johnson and supporting Malec and wishing justice for her trial. After the trial results, on May 7, Charles responded to the allegations publicly through a TikTok. According to his TikTok, he had promised silence to Malec till the end of the trial.

He denied any se*ual involvement with Johnson, condemned Johnson’s actions, and stated that his friendship with Johnson was brief. Charles further added that he would take legal action against people spreading false information.

Charles initially shared his response through a TikTok story, which made many people upset, expressing the lack of seriousness in the format. Although he mentioned taking legal action against people spreading false information, he did not explicitly apologize to Malec or her supporters.

The backlash against Charles was also for focusing on protecting his own image instead of apologizing to Malec for the inconvenience caused by him.

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The James Charles controversy tied to Kayla Malec and Evan Johnson’s case has sparked strong reactions online. While Johnson has been convicted of abuse, the attention has shifted to how those around him handled the situation.

James Charles was under fire for allegedly supporting Johnson after learning about the abuse. His delayed and vague response has made things worse in the eyes of fans and the public.

Edited by IRMA