Queer Eye star Tom Jackson has died age 63 after battling cancer.
Jackson appeared as a guest on the first episode of the Netflix reboot in 2018. The TV star lost his battle with metastatic adenocarcinoma on March 3.
Jackson’s death was announced on Queer Eye’s official Instagram on Wednesday, as hosts of the show Tan France and Jonathan Van Ness joined in paying tribute to their late friend.
A series of photos of Jackson was shared with the group along with the caption: “It’s with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to a member of our Queer Eye family. Rest in peace, Tom Jackson”.
France, 39, penned in response: “Such incredibly sad news”, as Van Ness, 35, wrote: “RIP Tom”, adding a heart emoji.
Co-host Bobby Berk added: “RIP Tom. Having a Redneck Margarita in your honour”.
Jackson, who also suffered with lupus, received a makeover and a brand-new wardrobe on Queer Eye in the episode ‘You Can’t Fix Up Ugly’, in a bid to regain his confidence and a healthier lifestyle.
The loveable grandfather was a hit with fans following his appearance and credited the experience as one of the “highlights” of his life, his family have shared.
They said in a statement: “In lieu of flowers, please watch season 1, episode 1 of Queer Eye on Netflix and tell others about it in honour of Tom.
“We will never forget our beloved Tom. He brought joy, humor, persistence and love to our family.
“He is special to us, and we look forward to seeing him again one day.”
Jackson’s online obituary revealed that he died surrounded by family at Kennestone Hospital in Georgia. He leaves behind his daughter Katie Phelps, grandsons Chandler and Watson Phelps and sisters Kozetta Stewart and Jackie Lynn Childers.
Jackson praised the “Fab 5” hosts of Queer Eye as he reflected on his time on the show in 2021.
He tweeted: “I’m the 1st episode on Netflix Queer Eye. Everyone that my episode [sic] season 1 episode 1. I was just being myself and having fun with the Fab 5.
“I love all the guys of the Fab 5. I think they all enjoyed working with me. The creators and executives told me that I was a natural...”
Queer Eye concluded its sixth season last year and is set to return with a new series in December.
