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Do We Need Makeover Shows Anymore?
Queer Eye’s ninth season, capitalism, and the makeover genre
As a long-time fan and frequent re-watcher of Queer Eye, the ninth season of the hit reality TV series has been long-anticipated, even with one of the cast members being notably replaced. However, it’s more than just Bobby Berk’s absence that makes this season feel like a significant departure from prior seasons.
The fourth wall has been broken, and as such, the flaws of Queer Eye — and the makeover genre as a whole — are becoming so apparent that the show isn’t quite the “wholesome TV” it once was.
Why this season feels different
When Bobby Berk announced that he was leaving the show after season eight in November of 2023, the rumor mill began churning like never before. Around the same time, Bobby unfollowed co-star Tan France on Instagram, and all signs pointed to a rift between the two.
In an interview with Vanity Fair in January of 2024, Bobby cleared the air. Not expecting to have their contracts renewed, he already had other projects lined up that he was excited for. Unexpectedly, Netflix proposed another four-cycle contract due to a shortage of content amid the writers’ strike, which Bobby declined. What happened between Bobby and Tan appeared to be…
