Long-Running HGTV Series Cancelled and Pulled From Streaming After Leaked Video
HGTV has pulled the plug on home improvement show Rehab Addict, after host Nicole Curtis was caught using a racial slur in behind-the-scenes footage, as shared by entertainment reporter Radar.
Rehab Addict first debuted on the DIY network back in 2010, before airing on HGTV in 2014. After several years away from the spotlight, Curtis announced the show would be back for Season 9 in late 2025, although plans were put on hold shortly after. Rehab Addict got the green light for a full return in February 2026, after the two aired episodes in 2025 received encouraging ratings. However, on the day the new season was set to premiere, behind-the-scenes footage from the show spread online.
Radarfirst shared the video on Wednesday, showing an unaired scene of Curtis using the n-word while making a mistake during a home renovation project (please note that Radar's footage is uncensored, and viewer discretion is advised before playing the video). The HGTV crew can be heard laughing before Nicole tells them to "kill" the footage of her using the racist word.
In a statement provided to People, HGTV said it 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."
The network also announced Rehab Addict is now cancelled, and no new episodes from season 9 will air on HGTV. They also stated that it will pull all previously aired episodes from its streaming service, HGTV GO, in response. "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," the statement continued.
In a statement provided to TMZ, Nicole said "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."
"I'm grateful for the 15-year journey we've shared," she added. "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."