Bobby Berk Reflects on His Decision to Leave 'Queer Eye', Embracing New Opportunities

Bobby Berk recently shared about leaving Queer Eye and his future plans.

"I'm doing well," Berk, 42, revealed to We at the Gold Gala in Los Angeles, California, on Saturday, May 11. "I had an amazing seven-year experience with the show. It was time for me to explore new opportunities."

He mentioned that he had come to terms with that situation two years ago in New Orleans, as they all believed it was the end, and he began focusing on different projects.

He hinted that he is currently involved in projects that involve both being in front of the camera and working behind the scenes.

"I'm currently working on developing some scripted shows," he mentioned. "It's been a lot of fun. I also have my design firm, which I had even before Queer Eye."

Berk also shared that he has the support of his husband, Dewey Do, as he navigates his new career path.

Bobby Berk on ‘Queer Eye’ Departure: ‘Time to Move On’

Karamo Brown, Tan France, Bobby Berk, Jonathan Van Ness, and Antoni Porowski on ‘Queer Eye.’ Ilana Panich-Linsman/Netflix

"My husband and I completely forgot that we celebrated our 20th anniversary last week until last night," he shared. "We both suddenly realized, 'Oh, we missed our anniversary.' But for us, that's what makes our relationship special. We don't focus on specific dates. We cherish and support each other every single day. He's my rock, my best friend who keeps me grounded."

Berk mentioned that he sometimes shares personal stories to help others cope with their emotions on the show. He also expressed gratitude for his husband's unwavering support.

He shared, "There were many times when I had to confront some inner struggles. I had to face some difficult experiences from my past that I didn't want to deal with. However, he was always there for me when I returned home, ready to comfort me as I let out my emotions."

Berk made the announcement of his departure from Queer Eye after being a part of the show for six years in November 2023. Through an Instagram post, he expressed, "It is with a heavy heart that I reveal season 8 will be my final season on Queer Eye. This decision was not easy to make, but it was necessary. Even though my time with Queer Eye has come to an end, I assure you that my journey continues, and you will see more of me in the near future."

Bobby Berk on ‘Queer Eye’ Departure: ‘Time to Move On’

Ilana Panich-Linsman/Netflix

Days after his post, a source informed Us that Bobby Berk's departure from the show was due to not getting along with the cast. The insider mentioned that there were challenges with scheduling and Bobby had lost interest in filming the show. The network and the cast felt it was time to introduce new energy, as Bobby's heart wasn't fully in it and the rest of the cast began to resent him for it.

Another source clarified to Us that Berk was not forced to leave the show and that the decision was made in a friendly manner.

After his interview with Vanity Fair in January, Berk shared that he and the original cast were prepared to move on once their seven-cycle contract ended in September 2022. However, due to the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes, Netflix offered them a new deal for four cycles, which Berk planned to sign along with his fellow actors.

The assumption was that if the whole cast didn't return, the show wouldn't either. Berk had accepted this and was ready to move on without any fear of missing out. Despite the others renewing their contracts, Netflix decided to recast one person - Berk himself.

While being initially “angry” with the turn of events, Berk noted that he had made plans he “wasn’t willing” to change.

With reporting by Lanae Brody

Editor's P/S:

Bobby Berk's departure from Queer Eye marks a significant transition in the show's history. Berk's decision to leave after seven seasons was driven by a desire to explore new opportunities, including developing scripted shows and expanding his design firm. While his departure is a loss for the show, it also represents a positive step for Berk as he pursues his creative ambitions.

Berk's candid sharing of his personal struggles and the support he received from his husband, Dewey Do, highlights the importance of emotional support in navigating life's challenges. His ability to confront his past experiences and grow from them serves as an inspiration to others dealing with similar struggles. Berk's departure from Queer Eye is a reminder that life is a journey of constant growth and evolution, and that even after leaving a beloved chapter behind, there are always new adventures to be embraced.