NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA: Michael Richard II is deeply committed to social justice and urban farming. However, the Fab Five was invited to assist Michael to understand his self worth and fight towards his goal of becoming the executive director on his farm while not doubting himself.
Michael's enthusiasm sprang from his upbringing in a family that was always giving back to the community and working in the garden. Michael's family instilled in him a deep appreciation for the arts, in addition to a strong affection for New Orleans. He is a great sports lover; despite being born into a Saints family, he grew up a Miami Dolphins supporter. When Michael isn't working in urban agriculture, social justice, or cheering for the Dolphins, he's modeling, acting, or promoting one of the numerous events or artists for whom he works.
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Who nominated Michael Richard II on 'Queer Eye'?
Michael is a 31-year-old farmer who runs Recirculating Farms in New Orleans' Central City. Michael's farm provides fresh veggies as well as educational programs and activities to adolescents and families. Michael struggles with feeling worthy of people's time and frequently feels judged while discussing farming and gardening.
Michael shares a duplex with his fiancé, Kaila Marie Vignes. For as long as he can remember, Michael has struggled with his identity and self-worth. He was born in Louisiana to Creole parents who were both half Black and half Native American. He was never Black enough to be with his Black family, nor White enough to be with his White friends. Michael was forced to grow up quickly and dropped out of high school to help his family.
Marianne, Michael's supervisor, and mentor, wants him to excel in all aspects of his life, but first, she wants the Fab Five to show Michael that he is worthy of respect. The farm will have its annual fundraiser at the conclusion of the week. Marianne wants Michael to be the face of the farm and the event's keynote speaker, and they need funding.
What did the Fab Five do for Michael Richard II?
Grooming expert Jonathan Van Ness realized he needed to channel 10% of Michael's enthusiasm for gardening and addressing food deserts onto himself. Michael had not prioritized his hair in a long time, so Jonathan accompanied him to a beauty salon. Jonathan retained the length of Michael's hair but gave it some shape. He wanted the complete Afro look, so he chopped a portion of it dry. He then cleansed it to bring out the best in it. Jonathan suggested that Michael wear a bonnet. His coils became springy and bouncy after removing some of the weight from his ends.
According to culture expert Karamo Brown, Kaila is a very supportive partner for Michael, but she can't do it alone. It's time for Michael to recognize that he requires further assistance to overcome the obstacles in his path. Karamo invited several of his friends from 100 Black Men, a social services organization that trains teenagers and young adults to be the future generation of leaders. Karamo wants Michael to know that he has community support accessible to him.
Fashion guru Tan France recognized the stress of being pulled between two worlds. However, he believes Michael must develop his own identity at some time. He doesn't want Michael to feel like a knockoff of anyone. Tan assisted Michael in finding a happy medium, allowing him to avoid conformity. He made him appear mature enough to conduct court in the places he'll be traveling while retaining his young, joyful character. Tan designed outfits for Michael and built him a wardrobe, so he has play clothing, but there are things he can do with those clothes, blended with other things, to make it more suited for business.
Design expert, Bobby Berk, wanted to pamper Michael with a little bit of design, but he also wanted to help him move forward on his way to achieving his goals. Michael finally sent his application to become Executive, which had been on hold for years, with Bobby by his side. Bobby transformed Michael's house into a space devoid of work and entirely dedicated to recharging and renewing. Bobby replaced the sofa at Michael's house. He hauled in a twin-sized bed that also functioned as a sofa. He also displayed some traditional artwork in the hall. Furthermore, he made the space inviting enough to welcome dinner guests. Bobby bought Michael a desk for his bedroom when he returns to school. Bobby, on the other hand, welcomed Michael to host the fundraiser at the 'Queer Eye' mansion.
Food and wine expert, Antoni Porowsk, was thrilled to support Recirculating Farms' annual fundraiser and Michael's aim to one day be the executive director. He wanted to assist him with his catering. Antoni wanted to highlight the vegetables that Michael farms. Antoni was in charge of appetizers at the event, where all the veggies used were from Michael's farm. He really wanted to showcase the great work Michael's doing at the farm.
Where is Michael Richard II now?
According to his job bio, Michael is still in the process of becoming Executive Director at Recirculating Farms. He might still be pursuing his degree before being promoted. On the plus side, Michael and Kaila are still together and stronger than ever.
Season 7 of 'Queer Eye' is now available for streaming on Netflix.