Queer Eye Stars Forced to Address Karamo Brown's Absence Live on Air
In a dramatic turn of events, the cast of Netflix's hit makeover show Queer Eye were compelled to address the unexpected absence of their co-star Karamo Brown during live television interviews on Tuesday. Brown, the show's mental health and culture expert, pulled out of scheduled media appearances at the eleventh hour, citing a need to "protect himself and his peace" from potential bullying.
Last-Minute Withdrawal Sparks On-Air Discussion
Four members of the Fab Five – Antoni Porowski, Tan France, Jonathan Van Ness, and Jeremiah Brent – appeared on CBS Mornings to promote the show's tenth and final season. Host Gayle King revealed that Brown had withdrawn just an hour before filming, sharing a statement from the star that read in part: "I hope everyone remembers the main theme I have tried to teach them over the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; which is why I can't be there today."
King added that Brown's assistant had indicated he was "worried about being bullied." When asked for their reaction, cooking expert Porowski described the team's surprise as an understatement, acknowledging the complexities of their long-standing professional family while emphasising their commitment to honouring the show's decade-long legacy.
Cast Express Support Amidst Surprise
The situation unfolded further during a subsequent appearance on Today with Jenna & Sheinelle, where Brown's assistant provided an additional statement. It revealed that the mental health guru "has felt mentally and emotionally abused for years" and was following therapeutic advice to safeguard his wellbeing by not attending.
In a video message aired on the show, Brown reinforced his decision, stating: "Just like the themes of this season, I'm modelling what I believe is most important, which I want to remind you all, love yourselves and protect yourselves. That's why I'm here at home and not there." Notably, while thanking the show's crew and Netflix, he did not extend thanks to his co-stars.
Co-Stars Defend Brown's Decision
Despite the palpable surprise, the remaining cast members publicly expressed their support for Brown's prioritisation of mental health. Porowski reiterated the collective unit's backing for his self-care, while Van Ness offered particularly heartfelt praise.
"It is so difficult when you're on a show and you're just relentlessly working, it is so difficult to centre what you need and how to take care of yourself," Van Ness said. "And he's been teaching people how to take care of themselves on Queer Eye for almost 10 years. And I'm actually so proud of him for centring what he needs to do and taking care of himself."
Newest cast member Jeremiah Brent, who replaced Bobby Berk, used the opportunity to defend his colleagues, describing his experience with them as "transformative" and emphasising the safety and support he has felt.
Final Season Launches Amidst Scrutiny
This incident occurs as Queer Eye launches its tenth and final season, bringing the groundbreaking series to a close. The cast has previously faced public scrutiny following the departure of original member Bobby Berk, who admitted to tensions with fashion expert Tan France, comparing their relationship to that of squabbling siblings.
The live television discussions underscore the ongoing challenges of maintaining mental wellbeing in the public eye, even for experts dedicated to teaching those very principles. All ten seasons of Queer Eye are now available for streaming on Netflix, marking the end of an era for the beloved makeover show.
