Television

Queer Eye Magic: Episodes, Ranked

Whether you were an avid fan of the original or if you’re just catching Queer Eye for the first time in it’s reboot on Netflix, you are in for one heck of a treat. The show is all about loving yourself and loving those different from you; it’s an inspiration to anyone who watches.

The Fab 5 really are fabulous. Bobby Berk handles interior design; Karamo Brown is the culture man; fashion falls to Tan France; Antoni Porowski talks food and drink; last, but not least, Jonathan Van Ness is the grooming expert. Meet the guys in the season 1 (because, hurray, it got picked up for a season 2!) trailer:

Really good, right? Honestly, I’ve already watched season 1 multiple times…and I know I’m not alone. So, I’ve ranked all the Queer Eye episodes, from my absolute favorite to my least favorite (although, to be clear, all the episodes are magic).

1. To Gay or Not Too Gay 
So many tears were shed on screen (and off!) during this episode featuring AJ, a gay man (rather than Queer Eye‘s typical straight one), not just getting a makeover, but also getting help in coming out to his stepmother. Also, look at these moves:

2. You Can’t Fix Ugly
You have to love the first episode which introduces the Fab 5 and shows just how meaningful their work is to the men they help. Helping Tom learn to love himself is utterly joyful (and cue the happy tears). Plus, Jonathan’s “Yas Kween” when cutting Tom’s beard is an instant classic!

Bobby, Tom, and Karamo in “You Can’t Fix Ugly”

3. Saving Sasquatch
Helping a closed-off app developer open himself up, this episode really shines when Neal gives an eloquent and heartfelt speech to the Fab 5 thanking them for saving him. Have the tissue handy.

4. The Renaissance of Remington 
There was so much going on in Remington’s house (formerly his mother’s childhood home) that the house makeover was stupendous. Again, like the emotional sucker that I am, I loved loved loved when Remy shared the lovely picture album Karamo made for him with his mother and sister. Guys, embrace those emotions!

Remington and Tan in “The Renaissance of Remington”

5. Dega Don’t
The highlight of this episode is really the honest and sensitive talk between Karamo and Cory, a police officer and Trump supporter, about the issue of police brutality and race.

6. Hose Before Bros 
Who doesn’t love a fireman? Jeremy is the epitome of selfless. His makeover isn’t for himself…it’s for the firehouse he works at; Jeremy and his wife also have five adopted children. See? Selfless. Anyhoo, this episode will make you laugh, especially when you encounter “Superman” and see how the Fab 5 reacts.

7. Camp Rules
Just clearing all the hoarder-like clutter (six children will do that to a house) was a feat in this episode. One of the most touching moments was when our Fab 5 Bobby talked with makeover (and super Christian) Bobby about his rigid Christian upbringing.

Antoni with Bobby in “Camp Rules”

8. Below Average Joe
The Fab 5 were in top form in this episode about Joe, a lonely comedian who still lives at home, but Joe himself was a quiet dud for most of the episode. Note: this was the ONLY episode where I didn’t even tear up.

So, there you have it. Watch them in this order. Watch them in the reverse order. Watch them any way you please. Just be sure to watch them. Job well done, boys!

Photo Credits: Netflix

Taraneh

Taraneh has been happily living in NYC for over a decade, but originally hails from the Midwest. Enamored with books at a young age, she grew up making stories, playing make believe, and loving the musical and performing arts. She is great at binge-watching TV shows. Some current favorites: Schitt's Creek, A Court of Mist & Fury, Prince Harry, and The Magicians.

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