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Bobby Berk Hints at Queer Eye Departure

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 7:33 GMT by Entertainment Weekly
      Locales: UNITED STATES, CANADA

Los Angeles, CA - February 23rd, 2026 - Fans of the hit Netflix show Queer Eye are reeling today after interior design expert Bobby Berk seemingly confirmed rumors of his departure. The speculation began building over the weekend, and Berk fanned the flames with a cryptic post on Instagram that has sent social media into overdrive. The post, a simple photo of Berk accompanied by the caption "Just saying goodbye to some friends," followed by a winking emoji, arrived shortly after reports surfaced indicating he would not be returning for the show's ninth season.

TMZ first broke the story, citing unnamed sources close to the production. While neither Berk nor Netflix has officially confirmed the news as of this writing, the mounting evidence and Berk's suggestive social media activity strongly suggest a changing landscape for the beloved series. Representatives for both Berk and Netflix have, so far, remained silent on the matter, leaving fans to piece together the puzzle.

Berk has been a foundational element of the Queer Eye reboot since its premiere in 2018, instantly becoming a fan favorite alongside the other Fab Five - Karamo Brown (culture), Antoni Porowski (food & wine), Tan France (fashion), and Jonathan Van Ness (grooming). The show's immense popularity is largely attributed to the dynamic between the five experts, and the unique blend of heartwarming transformations and genuine connection they bring to each episode. A shift in this dynamic would undoubtedly leave a void for many viewers.

While the prospect of losing Berk is distressing for fans, his desire to pursue other ventures isn't entirely unexpected. As far back as November 2025, Berk publicly expressed his ambition to expand his design business and dedicate more time to personal projects. In an interview with People magazine, he stated he was eager to "do more things outside of Queer Eye" and was actively focused on growing his entrepreneurial endeavors. He emphasized his gratitude for the opportunity Queer Eye provided, but acknowledged his need to explore new avenues for professional and creative fulfillment.

Berk's design work extends beyond the confines of the show. He founded Bobby Berk Home, a successful home decor and furniture company known for its accessible and stylish designs. The demands of running a growing business, coupled with the intense filming schedule of Queer Eye, likely contributed to his decision. Industry analysts speculate that Berk's increasing focus on his company may have made it difficult to balance both commitments effectively.

However, Berk's departure raises questions about the future of Queer Eye itself. The show's format is intrinsically tied to the Fab Five working as a cohesive unit. Replacing Berk, or attempting to fill the void left by his expertise, presents a significant challenge for Netflix. There's already considerable debate online about whether the show can maintain its magic with a different design expert. Some viewers fear a retooling of the format, while others hope for a seamless transition with a similarly talented individual.

The success of Queer Eye has inspired numerous other makeover shows and demonstrated the enduring appeal of uplifting, feel-good television. However, the unique charm of the Fab Five lies in their authentic personalities and genuine camaraderie. Should Berk's exit be confirmed, it could mark a turning point for the series, potentially forcing a re-evaluation of its core identity.

Many are questioning whether this is simply a temporary break, allowing Berk to pursue other projects before returning to Queer Eye. Others believe this signals a complete departure, potentially opening the door for a sixth member to join the Fab Five, or for a restructuring of the team's roles. Until an official announcement is made, the future of Queer Eye remains uncertain, and fans are left anxiously awaiting further developments. The outpouring of support for Berk on social media is a testament to his impact on the show and the hearts of viewers worldwide.