Bobby Berk Hits Back at Backlash Over New Show Announcement
Interior designer Bobby Berk is addressing the criticism he faced following the announcement of his upcoming HGTV show. The reveal came just one day after the news of the end of the popular series Queer Eye, in which Berk starred. In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE during the At Home with Narwal event in Los Angeles on August 21, Berk shed light on the timing of his show announcement.
On July 10, PEOPLE broke the news that Berk, 43, would be headlining his very own series on HGTV titled Junk or Jackpot?. This show is set to debut later this year and will see Berk assisting homeowners in deciding whether to part ways with some of their prized possessions to finance home renovations.
Berk clarified that the date for his show announcement had already been scheduled, emphasizing that such announcements are not made impulsively. Despite the unintentional timing of the revelation amidst the Queer Eye news, Berk has faced backlash, even receiving criticism from one of his former co-stars, Karamo Brown.
During the conversation, Berk shared, “Even Karamo [Brown] was like, ‘Girl, the day after?’ I’m like, ‘No, no, no. I promise you it was already planned.'” He further explained that some individuals questioned why he couldn’t have deferred the announcement, to which Berk responded, “Well, yes, but no.”
Berk expressed that perhaps Netflix could have informed him ahead of time about the Queer Eye news, considering his long-standing involvement with the show spanning eight seasons. Berk bid farewell to Queer Eye in November 2023 and went on to discuss a personal discord with co-star Tan France in a Vanity Fair interview in January 2024.
Following Berk’s departure, HGTV regular Jeremiah Brent took over the design expert role on Queer Eye. Despite any controversies, Berk is moving forward with Junk or Jackpot?, set to premiere later in 2025. The six-episode season, with John Cena as executive producer, marks Berk’s inaugural independent project with HGTV after his guest appearance on the show Rock the Block in April 2025.
The new series aligns with Berk’s passion for helping individuals navigate through their belongings and revamp their living spaces to reflect what holds sentimental value to them. In a statement from HGTV, Berk expressed his excitement to create reimagined spaces for people whose cherished items deserved to be honored.
Notwithstanding the mixed reactions to the timing of the announcement, Berk remains dedicated to his craft and eager to embark on this new solo venture with HGTV. As the launch of Junk or Jackpot? approaches, fans can anticipate witnessing Berk’s creative flair and expertise in transforming spaces on screen.
In conclusion, while Bobby Berk faced criticism over the timing of his new show announcement, he stands firm in his decision and looks forward to bringing his unique design vision to audiences with Junk or Jackpot?. As the episode premiere draws near, the interior designer remains committed to assisting homeowners in creating spaces that truly reflect their personalities and cherished possessions.