'Queer Eye' Star Tom Jackson Dead at 63
His family said being on the show was a highlight of Jackson's life.
Tom Jackson, the subject of the very first episode of Netflix's Queer Eye reboot, has died.
His family posted his obituary on March 5, 2023, announcing his passing two days prior, following a battle with metastatic adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer that originates in the body's glandular tissue—which lines several internal organs and produces substances like mucus or digestive enzymes—and has spread to other areas of the body.
The former Federal Express employee began driving dump trucks in his retirement, which is also when he scored his star turn on the hit series. "A highlight of Tom's life was being cast on the Netflix show, 'Queer Eye,'" his family wrote. "He enjoyed the notoriety and shared his experience with whoever would listen!"
Jackson's episode, titled "You Can't Fix Ugly," premiered in 2018. The episode's description reads: "A lonely dump-truck driver with a big ol' heart goes from "ugly" to unbelievable and learns how to reverse years of bad habits." According to Deadline, after his makeover, he got back together with his ex-wife, albeit briefly.
"It’s with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to a member of our Queer Eye family. Rest in peace, Tom Jackson," the show also addressed his passing, sharing a collection of episode stills on Instagram and Twitter.
"Such incredibly sad news," Fab Five member Tan France wrote in response.
"RIP Tom ??," added costar Jonathan Van Ness.
Fans were quick to send their condolences as well, with one writing, "We’re all drinking cowboy margaritas tonight. Rest easy Tom. ??"
Jackson is survived by his daughter, Katie (R.J.) Phelps, his "cherished" grandsons, Chandler and Watson Phelps, "who were his pride and joy," his sisters, Kozetta (Jeff) Stewart and Jackie Lynn Childers, as well as plenty of extended family.
They were sure to thank his care team and all "who contributed to Tom's treatment and comfort during his final days" and request that, in lieu of flowers, fans watch his episode of Queer Eye—and tell others about it—in his honor.
