Devoted fans of the popular home renovation series Fixer to Fabulous were left absolutely delighted this week when a cherished former cast member made an unexpected and heartwarming return to the show. Carpenter Joe Looney, who had stepped down from his role on the construction team back in 2023, surprised everyone by appearing unannounced in the latest episode, creating a truly memorable moment for viewers and co-host Jenny Marrs alike.
A Heartwarming Reunion on Screen
In scenes that aired on January 27, Joe Looney arrived at the renovation site without any prior warning, catching his longtime friend and collaborator Jenny Marrs completely off guard. The 47-year-old co-host's reaction was one of pure joy and excitement. Upon seeing Looney, Marrs let out an ecstatic scream before rushing over to welcome him with an enormous, heartfelt hug that perfectly captured their enduring friendship.
'Joe is a longtime member of our construction crew who retired a few years ago,' Marrs gushed in a voiceover during the emotional scene. 'And I just miss seeing him every day, so it's such a treat to have him here.' The genuine affection between the two was palpable, reminding viewers of the strong bonds formed behind the scenes of the hit renovation program.
Immediate Fan Celebration Across Social Media
No sooner had the episode aired than fans flocked to social media and comment sections to express their own enthusiasm for Looney's surprise appearance. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with viewers sharing their delight at seeing the beloved carpenter back on their screens.
One enthusiastic fan wrote: 'Love Joe and miss seeing him on the show!' while another added: 'Aww Joe! Great to see him again, definitely miss him.' The sentiment was echoed by numerous viewers who had clearly formed a strong attachment to Looney during his time on the program.
A particularly touching comment read: 'I love Joe. I cried when he retired. I love how you would always take Joe away for little breaks, sometimes sat on the back of the truck eating cookie.' This recollection highlighted the small, personal moments that had endeared Looney to the audience. Another fan declared him their 'all-time favorite from all the shows!' praising his distinctive head shake as 'just the best!'
The consensus among viewers was clear: 'The show's not the same without him,' with many adding that they 'can't wait to watch' more episodes featuring his return.
Background to Looney's Original Departure
Joe Looney had originally announced his retirement from Fixer to Fabulous in December 2023, confirming that he would not be returning for the show's sixth season. At the time, Jenny Marrs shared the news with fans through an emotional Instagram post that marked the end of season wrap party.
'It was also a night to celebrate our beloved Joe Looney,' she captioned the upload. 'I can't imagine doing this without him by our side but I'm grateful for the many years (so many pre-TV) with this amazing human. He deserves a little rest and we all sent him off to retirement with a whole lot of love (and requests to just pop by anytime he'd like).'
The Show's Continuing Success
Fixer to Fabulous, which is now in its seventh successful season, continues to be co-hosted by Jenny Marrs and her husband Dave. The couple utilise their considerable expertise and resources to transform ordinary houses into spectacular dream homes for buyers seeking a more relaxed, small-town lifestyle. Looney's surprise return adds an extra layer of warmth and nostalgia to the current season, reminding long-time viewers of the show's rich history and the personal connections that have contributed to its enduring popularity.
The unexpected lunch break suggestion made by Marrs shortly after Looney's arrival – 'It's a good time to take a break,' she said while wrapping her arm around his shoulder – served as a perfect, authentic moment that encapsulated the show's appeal. It's these genuine interactions and surprise reunions that continue to endear Fixer to Fabulous to its dedicated audience, proving that sometimes the most fabulous fixes are those that mend personal connections rather than just properties.
