Queer Eye redefines reality TV

At first glance, Queer Eye perpetuates every gay cliche. Glitter is literally poured over hosts, there's sass, shopping and makeovers to die for, however, the show rejects stereotypes as readily as it does ill-fitting clothes. Queer Eye represents diversity within the minority, it shows different ways to be gay, rather than limiting an exceptionally varied group to their ability to shop. The Fab 5 challenge viewers to recognise the gay community's complexity and individuality in a professional yet personal setting. Queer Eye redefines just about everything and welcomes you to join.

“At first glance, Queer Eye perpetuates every gay cliche.”

If you haven’t heard, Queer Eye is the lifestyle makeover show that hauled Netflix out of its funk. It’s got the Fab 5, five gay and gorgeous guys, who fix the lives of men down on their luck. Their subjects include a red neck, Trump supporter, firefighter and a 33 year old guy that lives with his Mother. They really have seen it all.

The makeover show champions self-love as a way of looking and feeling your best. It gets us to click off of mind-numbing reality TV, forget about Geordie Shore and Only Way is Essex for a healthier TV alternative. Antoni offers food, Jonathan serves grooming, Bobby redesigns your home, Tan wakes up your wardrobe and Karamo is the cultural guide we all desperately need. The Fab 5 are too good for us all.

Initially, it's their professions that set the hosts apart. Each boast impressive resumes and eight episodes in, there is no one I'd trust more with my life. They are well established within their work and show they are far more than (very) pretty faces. Where Tan teaches the importance of fitted clothing, Karamo addresses the importance of building a brand. Through spending time with the Fab 5 individually, each member presents a professional and personal identity. They may share a preference for men and dedication to self-care, but they value individuality.

As the series progresses (or in my case, once you finish it in a day) you learn about their personal lives. I challenge viewers to hold their tears as Bobby explains his difficulty growing up in a religious family and Karamo talks about his life as a black, gay teenager in Southern America - to a cop. Viewing the Fab 5 individually and not as one stereotype breaks down unhealthy gay cliches. Queer Eye is not gay vs straight, it's about individuals.

In recognising what distinguishes each host, professionally and personally, Queer Eye redefines the exhausted stereotype of how to be a gay man. Antoni wears plain, classic clothing yet Tan is all about the prints. Jonathan poses for the camera in splits, contrasting Karamo's straight-faced stare. The series forces viewers to recognise Queer Eye is hosted by the Fab 5, emphasis on the five. Season 2 ASAP please Queer Eye.