Ryan Brown

Brown grew up in Oxnard California to a loving family that was heavily involved in real estate. Both of his parents were spec builders, and early on Ryan wanted to have nothing to do with the family business.  

“I was a typical rebellious kid and of course pushed against joining the family business," he says. "I had a love for ecstatic, but wanted to pursue a career in another field.”  

Brown attended the University of California San Diego and had plans to concentrate on medical school were he hoped to become a plastic surgeon. His plans were derailed, however, when an opportunity to work in Europe with his brother arose, and Ryan jumped at the chance.  

“My brother was involved in real estate development and design and was moving to Europe to pursue his passion. It was an opportunity for me to learn about different aspects of the business and working with my brother has been an amazing venture.”  

While in Europe, Jeff began developing an interest in photography, first on the fashion end, and then eventually for architecture and interiors.

“It may seem like an odd leap to go from medical school to photography to interior design, but from my perspective it wasn’t really that much of a stretch. I have always been fascinated with symmetry, shapes and sizes, and my interest has just become more focused on design over the past few years, “Brown explained. “I enjoy beauty whether it be in a person or in a place.”
 

Jeff returned to Los Angles where he met Jeff Lewis, an intelligent, sharp-witted real estate agent with a flare for the dramatic. The instant attraction between the two men lead to a romantic relationship, but after years of dating, they realized they were better off friends.

“Jeff is a great guy really. He has his issues, just as we all do, but he is a very caring person and a brilliant business man. We have our moments as you can tell on the show, but I respect him and enjoy working with him.”  

Flipping Out came to Bravo mostly by accident. Jeff’s assistants had originally pitched a concept to the network about struggling actors in LA and the odd jobs they had to do while trying to break into the business. The execs at Bravo saw Jeff Lewis and knew they would have an instant hit.  

"It’s kind of funny because Jenni and Chris wanted the show to be about them and it ended up being about their boss. They are still struggling actors trying to get some credit in the industry," Brown joked.  

With his brother, Joshua, Brown co-founded Brown Design, a full-scale interior design firm based in Los Angeles, California. He has been working side by side with Jeff Lewis since their romantic relationship ended.  

"I was a little reluctant at first about being part of the show, but working so closely with Jeff it was hard not to be involved," he says. "While it shows a lot of the downside to his obsessive-compulsive personality, I think it also shows how involved we are in the business and that we are great at what we do. Bravo has done a great job at really being true to what happens over the three months we are taping."  

Ryan and his brother share a bond, which extends beyond their love of design. Both men are gay, and Ryan feels lucky to have grown up with someone to share his experiences with.

"We came out at different times, but we have always been close and shared some of the same interests. I think at first my parents were just upset specifically because they thought that they wouldn’t ever have grandchildren, but my partner and I have fixed that situation."  

Last year with his long time partner Dale, Ryan welcomed their first child Chloe into their home.  

"She has been the love of my life and so much more than I could have ever hoped for. I know it sounds cliché to say that a child puts everything into perspective, but it does, and she has truly made my life complete."
 

Ryan hopes that having his family involved with the television series will send a positive message about gay people to the watching audience.

"Reality television is sometimes about shock value and extremes. While myself and my family may only be a small part of the show, I hope that we demonstrate that gay people are just like everyone else."  

With a successful career, a loving partner and a beautiful baby girl, sexy Ryan Brown is hardly the typical gay man portrayed on television, and that’s just the way he likes it.  

For more information about Ryan Brown visit Browndesigninc.com. To learn more about the upcoming season of Flipping Out, go to Bravotv.com.