Queer Eye (2018) Season 6 Episode 8 Gimme Shelter

When the Fab Five - Antoni Porowski, Tan France, Karamo Brown, Jonathan Van Ness, and Bobby Berk - take on the task of transforming lives, they need not just a keen eye, but a compassionate heart. The episode, Gimme Shelter, in season 6 of Queer Eye, sees them making one such change for a deserving hero.

In Gimme Shelter, the producers choose a promising young woman, Genevieve, who left her corporate career behind to serve her passion for animal rescue. Genevieve now runs a non-profit shelter that houses five dogs and forty-five cats under its roof. Despite all the hard work, things are far from perfect, and Boynton Beach Animal Rescue desperately needs a coat of paint, some structural repairs, and a major cleaning overhaul. The Fab Five step in and work their magic to uplift the shelter both structurally and aesthetically.

As with every episode, each member of the Fab Five is assigned a specific goal that will help Genevieve's personal and professional life. Food and wine expert, Antoni, chooses a meal that Genevieve can prepare quickly on busy days and gives her some cooking lessons so that she can get back into the kitchen. Design consultant, Bobby, comes up with the perfect plan that is both practical and stylish, rearranges furniture to make the animals more comfortable, and sets up an adoption station to increase visibility. Grooming expert, Jonathan, helps Genevieve's self-care, gives her some hair and beauty tips, and encourages her to try a new look. Fashionista, Tan, helps her up to her fashion game, and finally, life coach, Karamo, provides Genevieve with some counseling services that help heal her past relationships and coping mechanisms.

In Gimme Shelter, the best part of the episode is the way in which they showcase the love and affection that the animals have for both Genevieve and the Fab Five. The animals at the shelter immediately bond with the Fab Five and no doubt, they are thrilled to have Bobby's furniture revamp. In one touching scene, Jonathan sits down with an older rescue dog and talks to him about his favorite things, while in another, Karamo has an emotional heart-to-heart conversation with Genevieve about the loss of her parents. The show also highlights how important it is to take care of our mental and emotional well-being alongside the physical wellness of our furry friends.

One of the significant takeaways from the episode is that everyone, no matter how accomplished, needs someone who listens and understands. Queer Eye never fails to shine the spotlight on those who deserve it, and in Gimme Shelter, Genevieve's hard work and dedication are rightfully recognized by the Fab Five. The show aptly portrays how small changes can bring significant improvements to someone's life and how easy it can be to show gratitude for someone who is doing a selfless job.

The finale of the episode is where everything comes together immaculately. It is clear that the improvements made by the Fab Five are more than just cosmetic. They have created a more compelling, functional space for Genevieve and her animals, and their heartening efforts will undoubtedly have a far-reaching impact on the community that Boynton Beach Animal Rescue serves.

Queer Eye's seasons have been consistent in their message of self-care and acceptance and Gimme Shelter is no exception. The show's careful blend of positivity, sincerity, and compassion is a reminder that it is never too late to make a change and to be kind. Queer Eye season 6 episode 8, Gimme Shelter, is a heartfelt reminder of this.