Bobby Berk’s Departure from Queer Eye: What Happened and Where He Is Now
Karamo Brown, Tan France, Bobby Berk, Jonathan Van Ness and Antoni Porowski on season 7 of ‘Queer Eye’ ; Bobby Berk attends The 2025 BAFTA TV Tea Party on Sept. 13, 2025, in Beverly Hills, Calif.
Credit :
Ilana Panich-Linsman/Netflix ; Rodin Eckenroth/Getty
NEЖD TO KNOW
- Queer Eye premiered on Netflix in February 2018, featuring lifestyle specialists Bobby Berk, Jonathan Van Ness, Karamo Brown, Antoni Porowski, and Tan France.
- Berk has recently exited the show ahead of its ninth season and will be replaced by Jeremiah Brent.
- He cited prior commitments that arose when he believed the show had concluded as the reason for his departure.
On the horizon of its ending after ten seasons, Queer Eye has seen a key change in its lineup, with Bobby Berk choosing to leave before the show’s conclusion. His exit comes as the popular reality series prepares for its final episodes, leaving fans to reflect on the impact of the Fab Five.
The series first launched on Netflix in February 2018, aiming to improve lifestyles through the expertise of its cast members, including Berk, an interior design specialist.
Prior to the upcoming season, Berk announced his departure on Instagram in November 2023, expressing his gratitude to the Queer Eye community, which he described as family. In his announcement, he stated, "The love that I have received from you all over the last 6 years has been absolutely surreal … I learned from you all about kindness, love and acceptance and that has changed my life for the better." He conveyed that stepping away had not been an easy decision but was necessary given his evolving commitments.
Why Did Bobby Berk Leave Queer Eye?
In a January 2024 interview with Vanity Fair, Berk explained that his departure stemmed from commitments made when it was thought that Queer Eye was concluded. Initially, the Fab Five had signed a seven-cycle contract that expired in September 2022. As filming wrapped for two seasons in New Orleans, Berk and his colleagues believed their journey was complete.
However, news broke in fall 2023 that Netflix would renew the series following the writers’ and actors’ strikes, leading to Berk being offered a new contract, which he chose not to sign. He presumed his fellow castmates were similarly opting out. "We’d just assumed that the show wouldn’t come back if we all didn’t come back," he stated.
Ultimately, Berk felt that he had made plans based on the assumption that Queer Eye had concluded. "I just wasn’t willing to change those," he explained, noting that he had developed multiple ongoing projects and was prepared to move on.
Was There a Feud between Bobby Berk and Tan France?
After Berk’s departure, speculation arose regarding a potential rift between him and fellow castmate Tan France, especially after Berk unfollowed France on social media. In an effort to clarify, Berk addressed the matter in the same interview, stating, "Tan and I — we will be fine." He emphasized that their situation was personal and unrelated to the show. "There was a situation, and that’s between Tan and I, and it has nothing to do with the show," he clarified while also expressing regret over his social media behavior.
Berk reassured fans that he and France reconciled at the Emmy Awards, recalling their embrace as "the first bandage on that wound."
A source close to Berk confirmed that his decision was amicable and had nothing to do with relationships with his castmates. Berk is reportedly busy with several projects, indicating a focus on his own initiatives.
Castmates’ Reactions to Berk’s Departure
In January 2024, Karamo Brown reflected on Berk’s contributions to the show, stating, "He brought so much to the show: his talent, his humor, and his heart." He added that Berk’s dedication always focused on the hero’s experience and details that made them special.
Jonathan Van Ness spoke to the passion and care Berk brought to the show, while Antoni Porowski reminisced about the family bond they created over the years. Tan France later remarked that it would be an "interesting dynamic" with a new cast member, highlighting the changes ahead.
What Is Bobby Berk Doing Now?
Since his exit from Queer Eye, Berk has been broadening his design firm, which, as of January 2024, is involved in designing 45 homes simultaneously. He expressed aspirations of cultivating and discovering diverse talent in design.
Additionally, Berk launched a line of custom model houses in May 2023 for Tri Pointe Homes, a collaboration stemming from prior engagement. He articulated an interest in democratizing design, emphasizing the transformative potential of beautifully designed homes that are accessible to everyone.
Berk’s recent work includes participating in a renovation of the Los Angeles LGBT Center alongside Paris Hilton and starring in a new HGTV show, Junk or Jackpot?, which premiered in December 2025. In the series, he assists clients in deciding the fate of their unique collections to fund their dream home renovations.
Who Replaced Bobby Berk on Queer Eye?
In February 2024, Netflix confirmed that Jeremiah Brent would join the cast of Queer Eye, stepping into the role of interior design expert. Brent expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, indicating that he appreciates the challenges and pressures that come with it.
Brent, a father of two and married to designer Nate Berkus, has extensive experience in home design, having been featured in other home improvement series. His addition is anticipated to bring a fresh perspective to the beloved show.
As Queer Eye approaches its final curtain, it reflects an evolution, enhancing its legacy while continuing to focus on making positive changes in people’s lives.
