Jack Veal, the 17-year-old actor who brought Kid Loki to life in the Marvel series, has taken to social media to share a sobering reality: he is homeless. Despite his young age and notable career, Veal’s story highlights the struggles of youth battling mental health challenges while navigating systemic failures in housing support.
In a heartfelt TikTok video, Veal described his turbulent upbringing and his battles with autism, ADHD, and ongoing screenings for bipolar disorder and psychosis. He revealed that he is currently living in a trailer with broken windows, far from his workplace, and has had to endure nights on the streets. Social services, he claims, have refused to help, leaving him in a precarious situation.
While Veal’s story is deeply personal, it underscores a broader issue affecting many young people, particularly those from marginalized communities. LGBTQ youth often face even greater risks of homelessness and mental health struggles due to family rejection and societal pressures. Veal’s plea for help sheds light on the gaps in social support systems meant to protect vulnerable youth.
The response to his video has been significant, with social services reaching out to explore foster care and supported accommodation options. Although this is a positive step, it also highlights the power of public attention in addressing systemic neglect. Veal’s courage to speak out may inspire others to advocate for change in how governments and communities treat young people in crisis.
In addition to his immediate needs, Veal’s experience calls for deeper discussions on the intersection of mental health, youth homelessness, and systemic inequities. It serves as a reminder of the importance of creating inclusive support systems, particularly for LGBTQ youth, who remain disproportionately affected.