Sep 14
Jonathan Bennett and Jaymes Vaughan: Hollywood’s Real-Life Storybook Marriage is a Beacon of Queer Commitment
READ TIME: 11 MIN.
When Jonathan Bennett, beloved for his role as Aaron Samuels in “Mean Girls,” met Jaymes Vaughan, the charismatic host and musician, sparks flew in true Hollywood style. Their first encounter was serendipitous—Jonathan was a guest on “Celebrity Page,” where Jaymes was the host. As Jonathan later recalled, he nervously asked his producer, “Am I about to meet my future husband?” The answer was a resounding yes, setting the stage for a romance that would soon captivate LGBTQ+ audiences and allies alike .
The couple’s wedding journey was not without its challenges. After being refused service by a venue due to their sexual orientation, Jonathan and Jaymes refused to let discrimination define their story. Instead, they chose to celebrate their union in the Mexican Riviera Maya at the UNICO 20°87° resort, where inclusivity was front and center. Their week-long destination wedding wasn’t just a personal milestone—it became a community celebration, featuring a gender-neutral wedding party, a custom “ring-flipping” ceremony, drag performances, and a spectacular fireworks display. The event highlighted queer talent and modernized traditions, sending a message that love is love, and visibility matters .
“We wanted our wedding to be a showcase of what queer joy and inclusion can look like,” Jonathan said in a post-event interview. “Every detail, every moment—we made it ours, and we made it for our community.”
Their marriage is not just celebrated in private but is joyfully and openly shared with their audiences. On Instagram and at public events, Jonathan and Jaymes consistently show their love and support for each other, whether it’s through sharing candid snapshots from their travels, hyping up Jaymes’ music career, or simply posting playful tributes. Jaymes recently told PRIDE Magazine, “I know how important the support of your partner is and how vital it is, so I make sure I always show up 110% for Jonathan any chance I get. That’s my baby! I got his back always.” He went on to reflect about the significance of visibility and acceptance: “Growing up gay, I was taught to hate myself, so I hid a lot of parts of me away to try to be loved. Having someone who says you don’t have to hide anything and I love all of you… I could have never dreamed of that, and now I have it! It’s the most grounding and peaceful feeling.”
Jonathan, too, is vocal about his admiration for Jaymes, frequently expressing his support for his husband’s projects and celebrating their milestones together in creative, heartfelt ways on social media. Their openness is a powerful model for queer couples, demonstrating that authentic love and vulnerability can thrive both on and off the screen .
By choosing to reimagine wedding traditions, Jonathan and Jaymes have contributed to a broader conversation about what queer marriage looks like. Their decision to feature a gender-neutral wedding party and choreographed dance numbers, along with the inclusion of drag performance, provided visibility to queer artists and challenged conventional expectations. The couple’s story has resonated far beyond their immediate circles, inspiring other couples to celebrate their love authentically and fearlessly .
Their impact extends into entertainment as well. Jonathan’s starring role in “The Groomsmen” trilogy on Hallmark, premiering in September 2025, exemplifies the expansion of queer representation in mainstream media. The series, which explores themes of friendship, love, and chosen family, benefits from the real-life chemistry and authenticity that Jonathan brings from his own marriage. The couple’s visibility on platforms like Hallmark and W Network signals a shift for queer stories, offering audiences positive, relatable narratives that reflect diverse experiences .
The couple’s commitment to each other is evident not only in joyful moments but also in times of vulnerability. In August 2025, Jonathan publicly shared that Jaymes had undergone corrective surgery for a rare health condition. Jonathan’s openness about his husband’s experience served to normalize discussions about health in queer relationships and encouraged others to prioritize care and transparency. “I got his back always,” Jonathan repeated, underscoring the importance of mutual support in marriage .
Beyond their personal love story, Jonathan and Jaymes have used their platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion. Their wedding, public statements, and participation in Pride events have helped raise awareness about the challenges faced by queer couples, including discrimination and the importance of safe, affirming spaces. By sharing their experiences and supporting community initiatives, they have become role models for younger generations, demonstrating that queer love is worthy of celebration and respect .
