HGTV abruptly pulled a popular home renovation series after a controversy involving its host. Leaked footage showed the star using a racial slur during filming. The incident prompted HGTV and the host to issue separate statements addressing the show’s cancellation.
Rehab Addict canceled after Host Nicole Curtis’ racially insensitive comment
HGTV has canceled the long-running home renovation series Rehab Addict following the emergence of footage showing host Nicole Curtis using a racial slur.
In a statement to Variety, HGTV said, “HGTV was recently made aware of an offensive racial comment made during the filming of Rehab Addict. Not only is language like this hurtful and disappointing to our viewers, partners, and employees – it does not align with the values of HGTV. Accordingly, we have removed the series from all HGTV platforms.”
The network added, “We remain dedicated to fostering a culture of respect and inclusion across our content and our workplace.” Curtis had made an “executive decision” to shelve the remaining episodes of Season 9, which had aired its first two episodes in July 2025, with plans to return on February 12. The network canceled those plans following the incident.
The incident became public when RadarOnline released behind-the-scenes footage in which Curtis appeared frustrated and used the n-word during a project. Curtis reacts in shock immediately after saying the word. The footage prompted swift backlash and led to the show’s removal from HGTV.
Curtis responded in a statement to TMZ, saying, “I want to be clear: the word in question is wrong and not part of my vocabulary and never has been, and I apologize to everyone.” She added, “I’m grateful for the 15-year journey we’ve shared. It’s been a meaningful chapter, but my focus isn’t on my career. My focus, at this moment is rightfully on my relationships, and my community – the people who truly know my character and where my heart is.”
Rehab Addict originally aired on the DIY Network and moved to HGTV in 2014, showcasing Nicole Curtis restoring old homes.
Originally reported by Anubhav Chaudhry on ComingSoon.net.
