Bobby Berk's Controversial Departure from Queer Eye Sparks Speculation (Source)

Corey Nickols/Getty Images

Bobby Berk was “asked to leave” Netflix’s Queer Eye after eight seasons, a source exclusively tells We.

Berk's departure from the show has been attributed to a lack of chemistry with the cast. The 42-year-old was one of the original members of the Fab Five in the rebooted version of Queer Eye, which first aired in 2018. He shared the screen with Karamo Brown, Tan France, Antoni Porowski, and Jonathan Van Ness.

According to the source, Berk's departure was caused by numerous challenges. Scheduling was a major issue, and Bobby's waning interest in filming the show also played a role. The network and the cast believed it was necessary to introduce new talent. Bobby's lack of enthusiasm started to cause resentment among the rest of the cast.

According to another source, Berk's departure from the show was not due to being asked to leave, but rather a mutual decision made in a friendly manner. The renowned interior design expert from Queer Eye, Berk, publicly announced his exit from the reality TV series on November 13th. In a comprehensive statement, he addressed the "Queer Eye community," emphasizing their close bond akin to family.

The love I have received from all of you over the past 6 years has been incredibly surreal. Sharing several throwback photos from the show, I am grateful for your unwavering support and dedication as fans. Together, we have been able to spread the healing powers of design. Through your kindness, love, and acceptance, you have changed my life for the better. The way you have embraced and accepted me for who I am is something that will stay with me forever. I also want to honor the show's heroes, who were the focus of our episodic makeovers.

“To all our incredible and courageous heroes, I have so much admiration and gratitude to express for welcoming me into your homes and hearts," Berk lovingly conveyed. "It is because of each and every one of you that I have found the strength to persevere over the years, and all of you have had a profound impact on my personal growth. I am immensely proud of each and every one of you! Assisting you in discovering the most authentic version of yourselves is a responsibility I have always cherished and will continue to cherish.”

(L-R) Antoni Porowski, Tan France, Karamo Brown, Bobby Berk, and Jonathan Van Ness Ryan Collerd/Netflix

Berk’s Queer Eye cohosts all commented on his social media post, sharing their support.

Berk remains a member of Queer Eye in its eighth season, which was shot in New Orleans. The season is set to premiere on Netflix on January 24, 2024.

With reporting by Travis Cronin