I was also confused about this. It seemed like there was something about him and that guy Jelly. But no, I think the confusion was intentional, as his father was abusive when he was a child (that was heartbreaking to hear). Maybe his father beat him, because he loved more "girly" stuff like cooking, reading and playing piano, which made his father think he was gay?

But he also implied he had been married before, so no I don't think he was gay. Maybe simply just troubled by his traumatizing childhood. His drinking might have been a problem for his relationship, and his ability to get another job?

However, if he was such a reliable cook, why shouldn't he be a reliable employee? Maybe he just had the love or anything other than caring for the people he loved, by playing and cooking?