Queer Eye cast react to ‘one of a kind’ Bobby Berk leaving US reality show

The Queer Eye cast said Bobby Berk will “forever” be part of the Fab Five who have co-hosted the US Netflix series since its re-launch in 2018.

It comes after Berk, interior design expert on the makeover show, announced with a “heavy heart” that season eight of the programme airing on January 24 will be his last.

On his Instagram story the show’s grooming expert Jonathan Van Ness said: “One of a kind and such a star. Love you Bobby.”

Culture expert Karamo Brown said: “@bobby we are #ForeverTheFab5 no matter what.

“I’m about to be at Netflix’s door and e-mails telling them you can’t leave! Who is coming with me? I love you!”

Fellow Queer Eye presenter Antoni Porowski, food and wine expert on the show, said: “#Foreverthefab5 indeed, and don’t forget it”, alongside five love hearts.

Berk said it had “not been an easy decision” to leave the show, but a “necessary one”, in an Instagram post on Monday.

He said: “The love that I have received from you all over the last six years has been absolutely surreal. You have tuned in and been dedicated fans and together we were able to share the healing powers of design.

“I learned from you all about kindness, love and acceptance and that has changed my life for the better.

“The way you have embraced me and accepted me for who I am is something that l will truly carry with me for the rest of my life.

“Throughout these years, you, the die-hard fans of Queer Eye, have all shared so many stories with me about how the show has touched your lives and I could not be more grateful to each and every one of you for being brave enough to share your experiences.”

The 42-year-old added: “You will be seeing more of me very soon.”

Stars including US actress Sophia Bush were among those commenting.

The One Tree Hill star wrote: “I sob that you won’t be blessing my screen and these overnight home transformations but I am also SO excited you’ll be home and we can hike more than once every eight weeks!!”

The official Queer Eye Instagram page also said: “After six incredible years of life-changing transformations, season eight will be Bobby Berk’s last with the Fab Five.

“We appreciate the heart and dedication he has brought to Queer Eye and wish him the very best.”

Berk’s departure from Queer Eye comes three months after he announced the death of his father, writing “can’t believe you’re gone”.