Bobby Berk’s ‘Queer Eye’ Exit Should be Celebrated:

After the much anticipated eighth season of Queer Eye starring Fab Five members Jonathan Van Ness, Bobby Berk, Tan France, Antoni Porowski, and Karamo Brown, it was announced in November that the season would be Bobby’s last. As a monumental remake of the 2003-Bravo-Hit Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, the 2018-established Netflix show has blown its predecessor out of the water. Similar to the Bravoreality show, each cast member takes on a unique role: Jonathan Van Ness with grooming, Bobby Berk with design, Tan France with fashion, Antoni Porowski with food and wine, and Karamo Brown with culture and lifestyle. The success is undeniable, with the Fab Five members having well-established careers and business ventures six years out and Queer Eye having several Emmy nominations and wins. The Netflix audience has witnessed the creative and careful ways the Fab Five have helped transform the “heroes'” lives.

In the wake of Bobby’s goodbye to Queer Eye after an impactful stint spanning eight seasons, the show finds itself at a crossroads, ready to embrace shifts. As the group’s designer, Bobby’s influence has been critical, particularly in the pivotal realm of home renovation, a cornerstone of the heroes’ profound changes. Beyond mere aesthetics, Bobby’s knack for crafting functional, organized spaces has played a pivotal role in positively impacting the lives of the show’s heroes.

One of the distinguishing features of Queer Eye is its ability to showcase the transformative journey of its heroes. Beyond the physical transformations of their homes, wardrobes, and appearance, the Netflix show delves into the emotional and personal growth of the individuals involved. Bobby’s impact extends beyond the tangible changes in the design realm. He played a role in shaping spaces that served as catalysts for the heroes’ self-discovery. As the show continues, fans eagerly anticipate how the remaining Fab Five members will adapt to the evolving needs of the heroes and maintain the show’s powerful narrative.

Bobby’s decision to part ways with Queer Eye, as detailed in a recent interview with Vanity Fair, stems from a confluence of personal and professional considerations. The renovation expert articulates a compelling aspiration for fresh challenges and new horizons, signaling a distinct professional trajectory and an inherent desire for personal growth. His departure, outlined in his Vanity Fair interview, underscores the deliberate move towards diversification in his design career and entrepreneurial pursuits.

Bobby notes that in early fall, all Fab Five members were presented by Netflix with a new contract to sign for the projected next seasons of Queer Eye. Reluctant to sign a multi-year contract and under the impression the other members felt the same, Bobby anticipated the show would end. “And with only one of us not coming back, Netflix felt [it] could recast one person,” said Bobby to Vanity Fair.

View this full article at Collider.