HGTV Terminates Long-Running Show Following Host's Offensive Language Incident
The cable television network HGTV has made the decisive move to cancel its popular home restoration series "Rehab Addict" after host Nicole Curtis was discovered using a racial slur during filming. This action comes in direct response to a video clip that surfaced on social media, showcasing Curtis uttering the N-word in footage that was never intended for broadcast.
Video Revelation Sparks Immediate Backlash
On Wednesday, February 11, 2026, Radar Online posted the controversial video clip that captured Curtis in a moment of frustration while on set. In the footage, Curtis can be seen on a ladder, struggling with a ceiling attachment, when she exclaims, "Oh, fart n*****." She immediately appears to recognize her mistake, asking the cameraman to stop filming and expressing dismay with the words, "What the f*** is that, that I just said?" and "F*** my life." The clip quickly went viral, drawing widespread condemnation from viewers and industry observers alike.
Network's Firm Response and Statement
HGTV responded swiftly to the incident, issuing a formal statement to The Hollywood Reporter. The network expressed awareness of the "offensive racial comment" and emphasized that such language is "hurtful and disappointing" to their audience, partners, and employees. The statement clearly noted that Curtis's words "do not align with the values of HGTV," leading to the immediate removal of the series from all platform. HGTV reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a culture of respect and inclusion across its content and workplace environment.
Host's Apology and Defense
Nicole Curtis addressed the controversy through her Instagram Stories, offering an apology while hinting that "there is more to this" situation. She stated that her primary focus is on her family, saying, "I need to be mom right now more than anything else." In a follow-up text message statement shared with TMZ, Curtis apologized directly, asserting that the offensive word "is wrong and not part of my vocabulary and never has been." She expressed gratitude for the 15-year journey of the show but emphasized that her current priorities lie with her relationships and community.
Show's History and Cancellation Details
"Rehab Addict" enjoyed a successful eight-season run on HGTV, following Curtis as she restored historic homes in Detroit and Minneapolis that were slated for demolition. The series originally aired on DIY Network for its first three seasons before transitioning to HGTV in 2014. The new season had premiered in July 2025 with two episodes, but Curtis announced on Instagram that she had decided to "shelf" the remainder until fall. The remaining episodes were scheduled to begin airing on February 11, 2026, the same day the cancellation was announced following the video's release.
Broader Implications and Viewer Reactions
The incident has sparked significant discussion about accountability in the entertainment industry and the consequences of using racially charged language. Many viewers took to social media to express outrage, with some directly messaging Curtis to label her actions as racist. This cancellation marks a stark end to a once-beloved home improvement series, highlighting the serious repercussions that can follow such controversies in today's media landscape.
