TV’s ‘Queer Eye’ Offers Lessons of Kindness and Compassion

In a paradoxical sort of way, we often turn to reality television when we want an escape or emotional release. Yet, some reality TV is also designed to uplift and motivate us to be kinder, more selfless people. We need this second type of television programming, especially these days. In a U.S. Catholic essay, theologian John Christman says   can find that kind of  show in Netflix’s Queer Eye. 

The Fab Five hosts of ‘Queer Eye’: Tan France, Karamo Brown, Jeremiah Brent, Antoni Porowski, Jonathan Van Ness

Christman says that Queer Eye’s Fab Five gay hosts–Antoni Porowski, Tan France, Jonathan Van Ness, Jeremiah Brent (previously Bobby Berk), and Karamo Brown–offer “warmth and compassion” through storytelling and acts of kindness as they help provide ‘self-care makeovers’ to “unsung heroes. These “unsung heroes” include a devoted Lutheran minister, a school principal who cares deeply for her students, and a nonprofit founder, just to name a few. Christman explains:

“Each episode features a selfless, big-hearted individual—nominated by someone who admires them—who has dedicated their life to helping others but has neglected their own needs in the process. The Fab Five step in to learn each person’s story, offer support, and help them rediscover a healthy work-life balance. The most powerful episodes highlight those who have spent their lives serving others, reminding them that they, too, deserve care and kindness.”

The show  focuses on authentic human connection and “lifting up good people in need.” Faith and spirituality play a role in several of the episodes. In one episode, Bobby Berk helps a Lutheran minister renovate his church. Although Berk has reservations about helping out the minister due to his difficult relationship with religion, he completes the project. In a heartfelt moment, the minister, who identifies as gay, apologizes to Berk for the harm done by the church. 

In another episode, a former nun is given a makeover as she seeks a romantic relationship. The cast learns about the woman’s amazing work as a lawyer and spiritual director for those on death row in Louisiana. With the help of the Queer Eye cast, the woman realizes that she rarely allows herself to receive acts of kindness. 

Moments like these remind us of the beauty that can come from kindness. Even those who dedicate their lives to serving others deserve to feel special and appreciated. Queer Eye reminds us of the dignity of each and every person, regardless of identity, status, or any other social factor. Just as Jesus recognized the inherent value of every person, the Fab Five continue to do the same. Christman concludes:

“Amid all of its dazzle and humor, Queer Eye witnesses to the dignity of every person. People involved in serving others all too often suffer in silence, which is not God’s will. Or, as Karamo says to a woman whose husband has been deported, leaving her to work long shifts, attend school, and raise three daughters on her own, ‘Do you realize that you are important, too?’ She responds, ‘I am, but . . .’ And with grace, he cuts in: ‘There’s no but.’”

–Sarah Cassidy, New Ways Ministry, April 16, 2025