Jeremiah Brent, the newest member of the Queer Eye Fab Five, has shared his initial apprehensions about joining the hit Netflix series, revealing he was “really nervous” when he first stepped into the role of the show’s interior design and home organization expert. Brent joined the Fab Five in 2024 for the ninth season of the makeover show, replacing Bobby Berk, who had been the resident design guru since the show’s inception in 2018.

Brent, who is also known for his role on Say I Do, sat down with PinkNews while promoting his new partnership with the insect-repellent brand STEM. In the conversation, Brent candidly discussed his feelings of uncertainty before joining the show and the challenges he faced in replacing someone as iconic as Berk.

“I was absolutely terrified,” Brent admitted. “It’s always been the driving force for me. I usually run into decisions like this because I’m really good at failing.” The 40-year-old, who previously spent two decades closeted, added, “I was closeted for 20 years—I can do anything!” His triumphant tone highlighted his resilience, which has been an integral part of his journey, both personally and professionally.

Despite his fears, Brent recognized the cultural significance of Queer Eye and the impact it has had on both viewers and the people it features. “That show is important culturally. It’s important with the work it does and the people it meets and interacts with,” he said. He explained that the show’s legacy and its role in sparking important conversations made his decision to join all the more daunting. “I really wanted to do a good job,” he reflected.

Brent also acknowledged the close-knit dynamic of the Fab Five, describing it as similar to walking into an established group of friends. “It’s like any group of friends you walk into,” he explained. “They’re a family. They’ve been through a lot together.” Brent spoke with great admiration for Jonathan Van Ness, Tan France, Antoni Porowski, and Karamo Brown, noting how they’ve led “the most difficult conversations culturally” over the past decade.

In stepping into Berk’s shoes, Brent found himself at the center of speculation about the reasons for Berk’s departure. Rumors had swirled in the media, suggesting potential tensions between the Fab Five members. However, Brent’s experience on the show has proven to be a positive one, and he is quick to dismiss any concerns about discord. “Since joining the show, we’ve become incredibly close,” he shared. “I said the first day I met them, ‘I’m just here to be a partner. I’m just here to be a friend and to do this with you guys.’ What blossomed from the experience is probably four of my dearest friends now.” He continued, “Life is funny, and it puts the people in your life that are meant to be there. It has been a real gift. I’ve absolutely loved every part of it.”

Brent also revealed the authenticity of Queer Eye, which, according to him, sets it apart from many other reality shows. “The show is real,” he explained. “It’s not like these other things you see on TV that are wildly produced. I’ve been a part of that. You actually make an impact on people’s lives, and you watch them step into this new iteration of themselves and see themselves the way you see them. It’s just really powerful, and I’m really proud to be a part of it.”

The impact of the show is something Brent holds dear, particularly in how it helps people rediscover their confidence and sense of self. “It’s not just about the design or the makeover,” he emphasized. “It’s about helping people see their worth, which is a beautiful thing to witness.”

In addition to his role on Queer Eye, Brent has been involved in a new advertising campaign with STEM, where he showcases the brand’s insect-repelling products. The campaign features a humorous interaction between Brent and New Girl star Max Greenfield. In the ad, Greenfield plays a disruptive “pest,” while Brent highlights the effectiveness of the STEM Light Trap and Fan Trap in maintaining a peaceful home environment.

Brent, who uses STEM’s products in his own New York home with husband Nate Berkus, shared his tips for creating a relaxing and functional living space. For him, home design is less about the amount of money spent and more about the care and attention to detail. “We didn’t grow up with a lot of money, but my mother worked really hard,” Brent recalled. “What was really important was cleanliness and organization. We may not have had a lot, but we took a lot of care in what we did have.”

He stressed that beauty in home design is subjective and should reflect the story of the people living there. “Beauty is not about how much you spend in your space,” he said. “It’s about the story you’re telling about who you are through your space.” On Queer Eye, he noted that each episode showcases a different story, and the transformations are tailored to the individuals’ unique needs. “Every episode stylistically is very different because the people are different, and their stories are different. What they find beautiful is different, and what they need to find respite in is different.”

Brent’s perspective on home design emphasizes the emotional connection people have with their living spaces. “It’s less about the sofa, more about the moment that matters the most to you in that room,” he explained. “That can really shift the way you live, absolutely.”

As Queer Eye continues to evolve, Brent’s presence brings a fresh yet familiar energy to the team. His honest approach to design, combined with his openness about his personal journey, has resonated with fans and participants alike. With Season 10 of Queer Eye set to begin filming soon, Brent’s role as the interior design expert continues to inspire and transform the lives of those featured on the show.

The impact of Queer Eye goes far beyond makeovers. It’s about helping people embrace who they are, and for Jeremiah Brent, that’s what makes being a part of the show so meaningful.