A beloved HGTV franchise just handed its keys to brand-new hosts, and the original stars stopped by to pass the torch. The series has already premiered in one country, but fans elsewhere are still waiting for a confirmed release date.
Sarah and Bryan Baeumler take over host duties in Home Town Takeover Canada
Sarah and Bryan Baeumler now lead Home Town Takeover Canada, which premiered on Sunday, October 25, on HGTV Canada and Citytv+. The series follows the couple as they work to revitalize Port Alberni, British Columbia. Notably, original hosts Erin and Ben Napier appeared on the premiere episode to welcome the new stars.
Shortly after the first episode aired, Sarah Baeumler shared photos with Erin and Ben on Instagram. “We’re so grateful to Ben and Erin for welcoming us into the Home Town family,” she wrote. She added that kicking off the series alongside them in Port Alberni was unforgettable.
Meanwhile, the show is not yet available to U.S. audiences. HGTV has not announced a stateside premiere date. Still, Sarah offered a positive note for American fans in her post. “To all of our US fans, Home Town Takeover Canada is airing in Canada first, and we hope to be able to share it with you in the near future!” she wrote.
Fans also reacted enthusiastically in the comments on Sarah’s Instagram post. One viewer from Vancouver Island said the first episode brought tears to their eyes. On the other hand, another expressed disappointment that the show did not air in the U.S. as expected. A separate commenter praised Canadians and Americans working together on the project.
Erin and Ben Napier originally launched Home Town Takeover on HGTV in 2021. That series followed them as they revitalized small towns across the United States. Similarly, the Canadian version applies the same concept with the Baeumlers leading renovations.
Guest stars including Scott McGillivray and Sarah Keenleyside also contribute to the show. Additionally, the series description notes that Bryan and Sarah have 12 weeks to transform Port Alberni’s reputation. The town has long been viewed as just a stop on the way to Tofino.
