Bobby Berk's Cryptic Social Media Post Sparks Queer Eye Feud Speculation
Former Queer Eye design expert Bobby Berk has ignited fresh speculation about tensions within the Fab Five after posting a seemingly pointed message on social media. The incident comes amid dramatic allegations from fellow cast member Karamo Brown, who recently accused his four co-stars of "bullying" and withdrew from scheduled promotional appearances at the eleventh hour.
Timing Is Everything: Berk's Subtle Swipe
On Wednesday, Berk promoted his new HGTV show Junk or Jackpot on Instagram with a caption that initially appeared routine. However, eagle-eyed fans quickly noticed his choice of accompanying music: Chappell Roan's track "My Kink Is Karma." When one commenter noted "Timing is impeccable," Berk responded cryptically: "Timing is everything."
Further interactions revealed Berk's apparent awareness of the brewing controversy. To another follower who wrote "Bobby out here using the drama algorithm," he cheekily replied: "The lord doth provid." When a third commenter suggested he was "just out here minding your own business," Berk simply responded: "Exactly!"
Karamo Brown's Last-Minute Withdrawal and Allegations
The social media drama unfolded as four remaining Queer Eye stars - Antoni Porowski, Tan France, Jonathan Van Ness, and Jeremiah Brent - appeared on morning shows to promote the series' tenth and final season. They were forced to address Brown's unexpected absence after he pulled out just one hour before scheduled interviews.
Brown's statement, read on air by CBS Mornings host Gayle King, explained his decision: "I hope everyone remembers the main theme I have tried to teach them over the past decade, which is to focus on and to protect their mental health/peace from people or a world who seek to destroy it." King added that Brown's assistant had mentioned concerns about "being bullied."
Co-Stars Respond to Allegations
When asked about Brown's statement, Porowski described being "surprised" as "a fair understatement," acknowledging that "families are complicated" after nearly a decade working together. Newest cast member Jeremiah Brent, who replaced Berk in season nine, defended his colleagues, saying his experience had been "transformative" and that he felt "safe and supported."
Later on Today, Brown's assistant sent an additional statement claiming the star "has felt mentally and emotionally abused for years" and was following therapist advice to "protect himself and his peace." In a video message, Brown emphasized self-care but notably omitted thanking his co-stars while expressing gratitude to Netflix and the show's crew.
Van Ness Praises Brown's Self-Care Decision
Jonathan Van Ness offered perhaps the most diplomatic response, praising Brown for prioritizing his wellbeing. "I'm actually so proud of him for centering what he needs to do and taking care of himself," Van Ness stated. "It's not easy and that's not an easy statement to make. Obviously, we wish that he was here, but I am really proud of him for doing what he needs to do for what's best for himself."
Background of Tensions
Berk's departure from Queer Eye after eight seasons in 2023 was already shrouded in rumors of a falling-out with fashion expert Tan France. His latest social media activity suggests lingering tensions may extend beyond his own exit, potentially affecting the entire Fab Five dynamic as the series concludes its decade-long run.
All ten seasons of Queer Eye are currently available for streaming on Netflix, marking the end of an era for the groundbreaking reality makeover series that launched in 2018.
