HGTV Cancels 'Rehab Addict' After Host Nicole Curtis Uses Racial Slur

The network removed the show from all platforms following the offensive incident during filming.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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HGTV has canceled its long-running home restoration series 'Rehab Addict' after host Nicole Curtis was caught using a racial slur during filming. The network said the language used was 'hurtful and disappointing' and did not align with HGTV's values, leading them to remove the show from all platforms. Curtis addressed the news on Instagram, stating her focus is on her family and relationships rather than her career at the moment.

Why it matters

The cancelation of 'Rehab Addict' highlights the growing intolerance for offensive language and behavior, especially from public figures, as networks and companies work to foster more inclusive and respectful cultures. The incident also raises questions about how HGTV will handle similar situations in the future and the challenges of maintaining brand integrity when controversies arise.

The details

According to the report, new episodes of 'Rehab Addict' season nine were initially set to return to HGTV this week. However, the network stated it was 'recently made aware of an offensive racial comment made during the filming' and has since removed the series from all of its platforms. Curtis addressed the news on her Instagram, saying there is 'more to this' but her priority is on her family and relationships right now.

  • New episodes of 'Rehab Addict' season nine were initially set to premiere on HGTV this week.
  • HGTV announced the cancelation of the show on February 12, 2026.

The players

HGTV

A popular home and garden television network that has aired 'Rehab Addict' for the past 15 years.

Nicole Curtis

The host of 'Rehab Addict' who was caught using a racial slur during filming, leading to the show's cancelation.

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What they’re 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 focus, at this moment is rightfully on my relationships, and my community — the people who truly know my character and where my heart is.”

— Nicole Curtis (Instagram)

“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.”

— Nicole Curtis (Instagram)

The takeaway

This incident highlights the growing intolerance for offensive language and behavior, even from public figures, as networks and companies work to uphold more inclusive values. It also underscores the challenges of maintaining brand integrity when controversies arise, and the importance of accountability and transparency when addressing such issues.