HGTV Pulls 'Rehab Addict' After Star Nicole Curtis Uses Racial Slur

The network swiftly removed the long-running home renovation series following the emergence of a controversial video.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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HGTV has pulled the plug on 'Rehab Addict' after a video surfaced showing the show's host, Nicole Curtis, using a racial slur during filming. The network condemned the language as 'hurtful and disappointing' and immediately removed the series from all its platforms, effectively ending its 15-year run. Curtis has issued an apology, acknowledging the impact of her words despite claiming it was a 'clear slip of the tongue' after a long day of work.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the growing scrutiny and accountability that reality TV personalities face, especially when it comes to unscripted behavior and the potential for offensive content to surface online. Networks are under increasing pressure to address such issues swiftly, as the spread of the video on social media likely accelerated HGTV's decision to cancel the long-running home renovation series.

The details

The video, posted by Radar Online, shows Curtis, a Michigan native, seemingly frustrated while working on a renovation and using a racial slur. HGTV responded by stating the language did not align with the network's values and confirmed the immediate removal of 'Rehab Addict' from all its platforms. It remains unclear if the show will be removed from streaming services as well.

  • The video was posted by Radar Online on February 12, 2026.
  • HGTV swiftly responded by removing 'Rehab Addict' from all its platforms on the same day.

The players

Nicole Curtis

The host of HGTV's 'Rehab Addict' who is facing significant fallout after a video surfaced showing her using a racial slur during filming.

HGTV

The television network that has pulled 'Rehab Addict' from all its platforms, effectively ending the show's 15-year run, in response to Curtis' use of a racial slur.

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What they’re saying

“My family comes first, and I promise transparency.”

— Nicole Curtis (Instagram)

What’s next

It remains unclear if 'Rehab Addict' will be removed from streaming platforms, and the broader implications for accountability in reality TV are still unfolding.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the growing scrutiny and consequences that reality TV personalities face for their unscripted behavior, as networks are under increasing pressure to address offensive content swiftly and decisively in the age of social media.