HGTV quietly removes ‘Rehab Addict’ from its lineup after Nicole Curtis’ controversial remarks
HGTV has made it clear that there is zero tolerance for offensive language that violates its core values. The network drew a firm line by canceling its home-renovation show 'Rehab Addict' after host Nicole Curtis' past racial comments started doing the rounds. Even though Season 9 was supposed to return on Wednesday, February 11, the network pulled the series from its lineup.
For context, Radar Online recently released a video where Curtis is heard using a racial slur while on set during the filming of 'Rehab Addict.' Curtis is heard saying, "Oh fart [N-word]," before immediately reacting and questioning herself, adding, "What the f**k is that that I just said? Nick, you gotta, can you kill that?" According to an anonymous source cited in the report, the video was recorded roughly two years ago during production of the HGTV series. Although the remark was not aired at the time, the resurfaced clip has since sparked huge controversy and contributed to renewed scrutiny surrounding the show and Curtis' conduct behind the scenes.
HGTV confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter that it removed 'Rehab Addict' from all its platforms after learning of the offensive racial comment made during filming, stating, "Not only is language like this hurtful and disappointing to our viewers, partners, and employees—it does not align with the values of HGTV." The network further added, "Accordingly, we have removed the series from all HGTV platforms," and emphasized, "We remain dedicated to fostering a culture of respect and inclusion across our content and our workplace."
Following the cancellation, Curtis addressed the news on Instagram, writing, "There is more to this, but my family comes first and I need to be mom right now more than anything else. I will take the time to be as I've always been with you, transparent and honest. TMZ called me as I had just turned my phone on after being at school — I said this briefly — but there is more." Curtis also shared the statement she sent to TMZ, saying, "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 relationships, and my community —the people who truly know my character and where my heart is."
Curtis further told the publication, "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." Notably, 'Rehab Addict' debuted in 2010 on DIY Network and moved to HGTV in 2014, focusing on Curtis' mission to preserve and restore historic homes instead of demolishing them. Following the controversy, HGTV has removed the show's webpage, with searches on HBO Max and Discovery+ now leading to error messages.
