Chef Stuart O’Keeffe's Experience with 'Queer Eye' Reboot Revealed

Chef Stuart O Keefe Says He Got Lame Excuse for Being Replaced With Antoni Porowski on Queer Eye 987

Stuart O’Keefe, Antoni Porowski. Getty Images (2)

Chef Stuart O’Keeffe revealed on his podcast that he was initially chosen to be part of the Fab Five on Netflix’s Queer Eye. He recalled the moment when he and Antoni Porowski were selected in separate groups to be part of the iconic group. The excitement was palpable as they were told, “You’re the Fab Five,” prompting a jubilant celebration outside the room. O’Keeffe suggested taking a photo to capture the memorable moment they all shared.

O’Keeffe, who is 33 years old, excitedly shared that he was supposed to be part of the Netflix reboot with Jonathan Van Ness, Karamo Brown, Tan France, and Bobby Berk. In this version, O’Keeffe would have focused on the culinary side of the makeover show, taking over from Porowski, who is 39 years old.

However, even after a month had passed since the supposed casting, O’Keeffe had not yet received an official contract or any information about when filming would begin.

I had a conversation with the other guys about their contracts. They mentioned they already had theirs, and I asked what was going on with mine. The production team reassured me they were working on it. I didn't think much of it and we all went to dinner together. However, Tan didn't join us, which made me suspicious that something was off.

About a week later, I was called in for more auditions at the Netflix studio. Eventually, I was taken out of the Fab Five and Porowski was brought in to replace me. Netflix has not publicly commented on my version of events, despite us reaching out for clarification.

"I never got to meet Antoni, but I heard he's a really nice guy. Bobby, Karamo, and I instantly clicked and got along really well. JVN seemed more reserved, like he knew he was a star. Tan was a bit odd and kept to himself too."

Chef Stuart O Keeffe Claims He Got Lame Excuse After Antoni Porowski Replaced Him on Queer Eye 001

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O’Keeffe claimed that he found out about the recasting via Instagram, which he called a “really s—ty” way of learning he was axed from Queer Eye.

The production company wanted me to be on the show because I had previously worked with Harbor and had experience working on other shows with them. They thought I would be a perfect fit for the show since I also had a cookbook out, which tied in well with the theme. I was thrilled and excited about the opportunity. However, my agent later informed me that the production company felt I had already done too much work in the industry.

Despite being featured on shows like the Today show and Rachel Ray due to my cookbook and previous television appearances, the production company wanted all cast members to be on the same level. I was disappointed to hear this feedback, but I understood their perspective. What made it worse was finding out through Instagram that I didn't get the role.

Porowski has been known as the resident "food guy" on Netflix's Queer Eye since it premiered in 2018.

After seven seasons of the show, rumors began circulating about drama behind the scenes. In November 2023, Berk, who is 42 years old, announced that season 8 would be his final one. It was later revealed that Berk's departure was due to a conflict with his costars offscreen. Interior designer Jeremiah Brent will be taking over Berk's role for the upcoming season 9.

Weeks later, Van Ness, 36, was accused of mistreating crew members and fostering a toxic environment. Van Ness has yet to address the drama. (Us previously reached out for comment.)

Editor's P/S:

The article sheds light on the behind-the-scenes drama surrounding the casting and departure of Stuart O'Keeffe from the popular Netflix show, "Queer Eye." O'Keeffe's account of being initially selected but later replaced by Antoni Porowski due to perceived industry experience is both intriguing and disheartening. The alleged discrepancy in communication and lack of transparency from the production team raise questions about their handling of the casting process.

O'Keeffe's experience also highlights the complexities of the entertainment industry and the subjective nature of casting decisions. While it is understandable that production companies seek to maintain a certain level of uniformity among their cast members, it is concerning if this leads to overlooking qualified candidates based on arbitrary criteria. Additionally, the claim that O'Keeffe learned about his replacement through social media is a disturbing indication of a lack of professionalism and respect. together.