Queer Eye’s Tan France Preps Doc on Colorism

Tan France, star of Queer Eye, will be working with Cardiff Productions on a new documentary film for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.

Tentatively titled Beauty and the Bleach, the one-hour doc will explore the issues around skin tone and colorism in society, as well as in the fashion, entertainment and beauty industries. France will face up to his own experiences in an attempt to seek answers to questions around the public perception of beauty, also meeting celebrities, experts and people affected by the issue.

France said: “I know that sadly my story isn’t unique, and so many people around the world have felt a burning desire to lighten their skin. But now is the time to question that. I want to find out why colorism is still so prevalent, and why people feel the need to change their skin color when it’s already beautiful.

“This film has the chance to show people they’re not alone, and that they can, and should, love the skin they’re in.”

Nasfim Haque, commissioning editor for the BBC, said: “We are thrilled to bring Tan’s U.K. TV debut to the BBC, where he will be exploring a timely issue close to his heart and one in an industry he knows so well.”

Narinder Minhas, managing director at Cardiff Productions, added: “I’m very excited to be working with Tan on this project. He is an incredible talent with an important story to tell. He’s passionate, and this documentary is the perfect fit for him—raising important questions about colorism and the impact it has on people’s lives across the globe.”