It’s the news no one saw coming – and certainly not the one fans wanted to hear. After seven years of life-changing makeovers, meme-worthy moments and emotional breakthroughs, Netflix has quietly confirmed that one of its most beloved reality series will bow out after its upcoming season.
The streaming giant dropped the bombshell via social media this week with characteristically understated flair: “10 seasons.
Fab Five. One last go ‘round.” But for devotees of this particular feel-good phenomenon, Queer Eye, the announcement might as well have come with a side order of tissues and a consolatory glass of wine.
Cue immediate internet meltdown. “This is not fair! Why is this the final season?!” wailed one distraught viewer, echoing the sentiments of thousands. Another lamented: “I feel robbed,” while others simply resorted to strings of broken-heart emojis – the universal language of streaming grief.
What makes this farewell particularly poignant is how the show evolved from its origins as a reboot into something far more culturally significant.
When the new Fab Five first swanned onto our screens in 2018, few could have predicted they’d become global ambassadors for kindness, serving equal parts lifestyle advice and emotional wisdom with their signature blend of sass and sincerity.
From transforming self-described “stoic Southern gentlemen” into vulnerable communicators to helping communities rebuild after tragedy, the series consistently delivered those rare reality TV moments that felt genuinely transformative rather than transactional.
All while giving viewers Jonathan Van Ness’ iconic hair flips, Antoni Porowski’s avocado obsession, and a substantial amount of the internet’s meme content.
The final season, currently filming in Washington DC, will introduce new faces alongside familiar ones following interior design guru Bobby Berk’s departure last year.
His replacement Jeremiah Brent has barely settled into the Fab Five dynamic before having to say his own goodbyes – a fact not lost on mourning fans. “You can’t give him to us and take him away this quick,” protested one viewer.
With six Emmy wins from 37 nominations, the show’s legacy as both critical darling and cultural phenomenon is secure. But that’s cold comfort for audiences who’ve come to rely on its unique alchemy of humour and humanity.
Queer Eye’s final season streams later this year on Netflix.
