Tensions within the cast of Netflix’s popular series Queer Eye have escalated as Karamo Brown unexpectedly withdrew from promotional activities for the show’s final season. Brown, responsible for cultural insights within the ensemble known as the Fab Five, informed the media of his decision shortly before scheduled interviews on January 20, 2026. In a statement shared during a segment on CBS Mornings, he emphasized the importance of prioritizing mental health, stating, “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.”
Brown’s absence left his co-stars—Antoni Porowski, Tan France, Jeremiah Brent, and Jonathan Van Ness—to navigate the publicity without him. Porowski expressed his surprise, describing the situation as a significant understatement. He acknowledged the complexities of their long-standing relationship, saying, “Our Queer Eye family — we’ve been doing this for almost a decade, which is pretty wild to believe — and families are complicated.”
Brown’s decision came after reports from his assistant claimed he has felt “mentally and emotionally abused for years.” The assistant stated that his therapist recommended he protect himself by not attending the promotional events. In a video message intended for viewers of Today with Jenna & Sheinelle, Brown thanked fans for their support and reiterated his commitment to self-care, saying, “Love yourselves and protect yourselves. That’s why I’m here at home and not there.”
In the wake of Brown’s withdrawal, he unfollowed his castmates on social media, except for Brent, who joined the Fab Five in season nine. This move raised eyebrows among fans, especially as it followed Bobby Berk‘s departure from the original cast. Berk left the show after seasons of participation, citing the emotional toll of the show’s production and the uncertainty surrounding its renewal. He later clarified that his decision was based on personal circumstances and not due to conflicts within the cast.
The dynamics among the Fab Five have been further complicated by recent allegations against Jonathan Van Ness, who faced accusations of being emotionally abusive on set. Van Ness responded to these claims during an appearance on the Table Manners podcast, denouncing the allegations as untrue and highlighting the stress that can accompany such a high-profile career.
As the final season of Queer Eye premieres, the future of the cast remains uncertain. While the remaining members continue to promote the show, the absence of Karamo Brown serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by those in the public eye. Fans are left to wonder how these tensions will affect the legacy of a show that has touched many lives over its decade-long run. The tenth and final season is now available for streaming on Netflix.
