HGTV Axes Rehab Addict Following Host's Use of Racial Slur During Filming
The popular home renovation programme Rehab Addict has been abruptly cancelled by HGTV after its host, Nicole Curtis, was recorded using a racial slur while filming an episode. The network announced the immediate termination of the show, which had been on air for fifteen years, and removed the entire series from streaming services HBO Max and Discovery+.
Incident and Immediate Fallout
A video surfaced online on Wednesday showing Curtis, aged 49, struggling with a tool during a renovation that aired in a 2025 episode. In the clip, she utters the n-word before appearing horrified and pleading with crew members to delete the footage. The network was made aware of the offensive comment and acted swiftly, cancelling the show on the same day new episodes were scheduled to premiere.
HGTV issued a firm statement regarding the cancellation: "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. We remain dedicated to fostering a culture of respect and inclusion across our content and our workplace."
Nicole Curtis's Response and Apology
Following the backlash, Curtis apologised for using the slur in a statement to TMZ on Wednesday. She addressed the controversy on her Instagram Stories, 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."
She reshared her TMZ statement, which expressed gratitude for the fifteen-year journey with HGTV but emphasised her current focus on personal relationships and community. Curtis stated: "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 also posted screenshots of hateful messages received on social media since the cancellation.
Background of the Show and Recent Return
Rehab Addict premiered in 2010, following Curtis as she restored buildings slated for demolition. After a three-year hiatus, the show returned in June 2025 for its ninth season. Curtis had previously cited a personal setback as a reason for the break, saying it "rocked me to the core." The programme's cancellation marks a sudden end to its long run, highlighting the serious consequences of the incident for both the host and the network.
