Queer Eye star Karamo Brown abruptly withdrew from multiple scheduled live interviews Tuesday, saying he has “felt mentally and emotionally abused for years” and choosing to prioritize his mental health. The shocking move came as the cast prepared to promote the Netflix reality show’s 10th and final season.
Brown, 45, did not appear with fellow hosts on national morning shows including CBS Mornings and Today with Jenna & Sheinelle. His absence raised eyebrows and prompted on-air discussions about his decision and its emotional roots.
Self-Care and Protection
In statements shared through his representatives and read on live television, Brown explained that he has battled persistent emotional strain related to his work and public life. “He’s been advised by his therapist to protect himself and his peace by not attending,” a spokeswoman told CBS Mornings co-host Gayle King shortly before the segment aired.
In a later video message to Today, Brown said, “Just like the themes of this season, I’m modeling what I believe is most important, which I want to remind you all — love yourselves and protect yourselves.”
Brown’s message praised the Queer Eye crew and supporters, but noticeably did not name the show’s four other hosts.
Costars Weigh In
The remaining Fab Five — Antoni Porowski, Tan France, Jonathan Van Ness and Jeremiah Brent — appeared on camera without Brown. They expressed support for Brown’s focus on wellness while also acknowledging their surprise at his absence.
“Surprised is a fair understatement,” Porowski said. “Our Queer Eye family, we’ve been doing this for almost a decade — which is pretty wild to believe — and families are complicated.”
France added that the show’s message has always centered on transformation and empathy. “This work was never about us,” he said, highlighting the show’s focus on the people they’ve helped.
Jonathan Van Ness spoke more personally, lauding Brown’s decision and legacy. “It is so difficult … when you’re on a show and you’re relentlessly working, it is difficult to center what you need,” Van Ness said. “He’s been teaching people how to take care of themselves on Queer Eye for almost 10 years. I’m really proud of him.”
Jeremiah Brent, who joined the show in its ninth season, echoed the sentiment, calling his time with the group “transformative” and saying he has “felt safe and supported by the people up here.”
Brown’s decision highlights growing conversations in Hollywood about boundaries, mental health, and the pressures of life in the public eye. With the final season set to debut, the cast’s promotional duties have now taken an unexpected turn.