Kriti Mehrotra
Since Michael “Mike” Devereaux always had a strong community around him, he started feeling a little lost a couple of years ago when his family decided to relocate for better opportunities. The compassionate, empathetic, kind man never once complained about it, but it became kind of obvious to his loved ones as they noticed a slight dimming of his spark for himself. Thus, they enlisted the help of the Fab Five in Netflix’s ‘Queer Eye’ season 10 in the hopes of letting him know that while his care is greatly appreciated, he is allowed to look after himself, too.
Mike Devereaux’s Career as a Pastor Turned Educator Has Been Really Impressive
A proud native of Southern California, Michael “Mike” Devereaux reportedly knew from an early age that his calling was to help others in all aspects of their lives as a counselor or guide. Therefore, upon completing his studies, he settled down in New York as a pastor, where he led his congregation by example on how to act in accordance with the spiritual word of God. He preached lessons in community, kindness, love, peace, and understanding for 15 years, until he became “disillusioned with religion” as a whole and chose to move forward.
The truth is that Mike was always intrigued by people from all walks of life, which drove him to engage in conversation with them to learn how everyone could live on this one Earth in harmony. Hence, he lost his entire community in the blink of an eye when he stepped down as pastor; thereafter, he shifted gears and chose the path his wife had long envisioned for him. According to Nicole Devereaux’s account, she had asked him within 10 minutes of meeting him whether he had ever considered being a teacher, so he later earned the required certification.
Mike had no idea the midlife career change would be the best thing for him, because it enables him not only to help shape the next generation but also to see how he is doing so tangibly. Then, in 2023, a new opportunity arose when Nicole’s professional dreams came one step closer, as she was granted a scholarship to American University Washington College of Law. The couple and their two daughters – Maren as well as Esme – thus relocated to Washington, DC, where the educator continued down the road he was on by landing a spot at a charter school.
Mike Devereaux Has Found a Balance Between His Personal and Professional Experiences
When Mike first became a part of Digital Pioneers Academy, an information technology-focused high school, he was hired on an annual contract as a History Teacher for 9th and 10th grades. However, following the 2023-2024 session, he returned as a History Teacher for 11th and 12th grade, all the while also taking on the responsibility of helping his students figure out their future paths. That’s the role he proudly maintains to this day, but now, thanks to his experience with the Fab Five, he is able to leave his work at school and focus on himself and his family, too.
There was a time when Mike would just tirelessly give and give to others without taking a breath for himself, yet he has since had a major breakthrough when it comes to self-love. “I said the phrase, ‘I’m good enough. I’m great!’” he candidly told Netflix’s Tudum in an exclusive interview in January 2026. “I know that seems so simple, but at that moment it was exactly what I needed to hear.” Nevertheless, his biggest takeaway from the Fab Five has been the “wonder of relationships,” right along with how he can dress up and take better care of himself to be there for his family longer.
Mike also told Tudum that while his work clothes are still a bit more casual, he has been keeping the style tricks Tan taught him in his back pocket for date nights or other occasions. As for his grooming and cooking habits, they have also improved over time. “I take slightly more care of my beard thanks to JVN… Antoni taught me how to make the most amazing swordfish plate, which I’ve made several times (for the family) since.” After all, his loving wife Nicole as well as their two adorable daughters — 16-year-old Mareb and 13-year-old Esme — were, are, and always will be the 50-year-old’s top priority.
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