HGTV pulls 'Rehab Addict' after host Nicole Curtis uses racial slur

The home renovation series has been removed from all HGTV platforms following the incident.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Nicole Curtis, the host of HGTV's 'Rehab Addict' home renovation series, has apologized after a video surfaced showing her using a racial slur during filming. The network has since pulled the show from all of its platforms.

Why it matters

The use of a racial slur by a prominent TV personality is a serious issue that can have significant consequences, both for the individual and the network. HGTV's decision to remove the show from its platforms reflects the network's commitment to addressing such incidents and maintaining its brand reputation.

The details

In the video, which was captured two years ago, Curtis is seen struggling with a task and then using the N-word. She immediately expresses regret and asks the cameraman to 'kill that' footage. HGTV has stated that the network was 'recently made aware of an offensive racial comment' and that the language 'does not align with the values of HGTV.' The network has removed the show, which had been in production for a ninth season, from all of its platforms.

  • The video was captured approximately two years ago.
  • HGTV recently became aware of the incident and removed the show from its platforms.

The players

Nicole Curtis

The host of HGTV's 'Rehab Addict' home renovation series, who has apologized for using a racial slur during filming.

HGTV

The television network that has removed 'Rehab Addict' from all of its platforms following the incident.

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What they’re saying

“Regarding HGTV, 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. 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 (TMZ)

“Not only is language like this hurtful and disappointing to our viewers, partners, and employees — it does not align with the values of HGTV.”

— HGTV (HGTV statement)

What’s next

HGTV has not indicated any specific next steps, but the network's decision to remove the show from its platforms suggests that it is taking the incident seriously and prioritizing its commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing need for accountability and sensitivity when it comes to the use of racial slurs, even in private or unintentional contexts. It serves as a reminder that public figures, especially those with large platforms, must be mindful of the impact their words and actions can have on their audience and the broader community.