Did James Charles Date Evan Johnson? Here’s How the Influencer Got Pulled Into the Kayla Malec Controversy

Beauty YouTuber and TikTok personality James Charles is once again facing public speculation—but this time, it’s over his alleged connection to Evan Johnson, the ex-boyfriend of Kayla Malec, who recently won a domestic violence case against him. The rumors, which circulated widely across social media, prompted Charles to break his silence and set the record straight.

In a TikTok video posted on May 7, Charles firmly denied ever being romantically or sexually involved with Johnson, stating unequivocally, “We did not have sex, and I never paid him for anything.” He emphasized that their connection was nothing more than a short-lived friendship and made it clear he does not support Johnson or his actions.

“I do not support Evan Johnson in any way, shape, or form,” Charles said. He also noted that any ties he may have had with Johnson were cut off long before the abuse allegations surfaced. The beauty influencer said he waited to speak out until after the conclusion of the court case, in which Malec emerged victorious and Johnson was arrested following the hearing.

Malec had previously shared her story in a series of TikTok and YouTube videos, detailing the physical and emotional abuse she allegedly endured during her nine-month relationship with Johnson. Her account sparked a wave of online support and led to a formal court case in Sumner County, Tennessee. Johnson was arrested for domestic assault and a probation violation in early April and appeared in court later that month.

Though Charles wasn’t directly involved in the case, his name surfaced online when YouTuber Markos Bitsakakis (also known as Bee Better) and another figure named Zack Sellars—reportedly a former friend of Johnson—publicly claimed that Charles and Johnson had been sexually involved. These claims, made during a YouTube interview, quickly spread across social media, prompting backlash and confusion.

Charles slammed the allegations as completely false and labeled the interview “absolute bulls**t.” He also announced plans to take legal action against those spreading what he called defamatory misinformation. “There is no proof because it did not happen,” he said, clearly frustrated by the situation.

In the same video, Charles revealed that he had reached out privately to Kayla Malec in an attempt to clarify things, but she chose not to respond. “And honestly, I don’t f***ing blame her,” he added, showing support for Malec and her pursuit of justice. He reiterated that his intentions were to distance himself from Johnson and clear up the narrative that had wrongly pulled him into a controversy he had nothing to do with.

Prior to his detailed video, Charles had already shared a post on May 6 stating, “I DO NOT SUPPORT EVAN JOHNSON,” and said he was glad to see Malec get the justice she deserved. His comments, while brief at first, aimed to show solidarity with victims of abuse while also distancing himself from the scandal brewing online.

The situation highlights the unpredictable nature of internet fame and the speed at which rumors can escalate—especially when they involve high-profile figures. Charles, who has weathered his fair share of controversies over the years, is now pushing back with a strong message: that misinformation has real consequences, and he won’t hesitate to take legal steps to protect his reputation.

As of now, Johnson remains in custody following the court hearing, and Malec’s supporters continue to praise her for her bravery. Meanwhile, Charles hopes to move forward by clearing his name and reaffirming his stance against both abuse and the spread of false narratives online.