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Full Breakdown

HGTV Fires Nicole Curtis After Racial Slur Incident

2/12/2026, 9:37:58 AM

Incident Overview: Nicole Curtis's Firing

Nicole Curtis, the host of HGTV's long-running show "Rehab Addict," has been fired after a video surfaced showing her using a racial slur during filming. The incident prompted HGTV to remove the series from all its platforms, a decision made public shortly before new episodes were set to air. The video, which reportedly never aired, captured Curtis laughing and expressing regret immediately after using the offensive language, asking the crew to delete the footage.

Official Response from HGTV

In an official statement, HGTV expressed its disappointment regarding Curtis's comments, stating, "We understand that language like this is hurtful and disappointing to our viewers, partners, and employees, and it does not align with the values of HGTV." The network emphasized its commitment to fostering a culture of respect and inclusion, leading to the decision to remove "Rehab Addict" from all platforms.

Background on Nicole Curtis and "Rehab Addict"

Nicole Curtis has been a prominent figure in home renovation television since "Rehab Addict" premiered in 2010. The show focuses on restoring historic homes, primarily in Detroit and Minneapolis, and has spawned several spin-offs, including "Rehab Addict Rescue" and "Lake House Rescue." Curtis's approach to home renovation has garnered a dedicated following, and she has often highlighted the challenges faced during her projects.

Criticism and Public Reaction

Following the release of the video, public backlash against Curtis intensified. Critics took to social media to express their outrage, labeling her comments as "disgusting" and demanding her removal from the show. This public outcry likely influenced HGTV's swift action in terminating her contract and pulling the series from its lineup.

Conflicting Reports and Gaps

While multiple sources confirm the incident and Curtis's firing, there are discrepancies regarding the specifics of the video and the exact timeline of events. Some reports indicate that Curtis was unaware of her impending dismissal when she posted on Instagram about the new episodes, while others suggest that the network had already made its decision prior to her announcement.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “Nick, you gotta, you gotta, can you kill that? F--- my life.” — Nicole Curtis, in the video captured during filming.
  • “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.” — HGTV, in their official statement regarding the incident.

What's Next for HGTV and Nicole Curtis

As of now, HGTV has not announced any plans to replace Curtis or revive "Rehab Addict." The network's decision to remove the series reflects a broader commitment to addressing issues of racism and promoting inclusivity in its programming. Curtis's future in television remains uncertain following this incident.