Chip and Joanna Gaines Face Criticism Over New Reality Show

Former HGTV stars Chip and Joanna Gaines are encountering backlash due to their latest reality show, which features same-sex couples.

The series, titled “Back to the Frontier,” showcases three American families attempting to live as homesteaders in the 1880s and launched on HBO Max on July 10. Chip is the executive producer of the Magnolia Network documentary.

After clips from the show circulated on social media, criticism arose from conservative Christian leaders and commentators. Among those featured are two fathers from Texas and their ten-year-old twin sons, who were conceived via a surrogate.

Critics claim that the Gaineses are supporting a lifestyle they view as contradictory to Biblical principles while promoting their Christian beliefs through their media ventures.

The Reverend Franklin Graham, head of the Samaritan’s Purse and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, publicly expressed disappointment with the casting choices. He stated on social media, “We love people, but we should love them enough to tell them the truth of God’s Word. His words are absolute truth. God loves us, and His design for marriage is between one man and one woman.”

Ed Vitagliano, vice president of the American Family Association, also weighed in, describing the decision as “sad and disappointing” from such an influential couple in the evangelical community. He noted, “They’ve previously stood by the dignity of marriage despite personal costs. I wonder why they deviated now, but ‘Back to the Frontier’ appears to promote a non-Biblical perspective on sexuality and family.”

Chip Gaines, on July 10, acknowledged the outpouring of negative feedback regarding the show. He responded to critics, saying, “Please listen and ask questions. I probably have a lot to learn.” He added somberly, “It’s a sad day when ‘non-believers’ are faced with hatred or violence only after encountering modern American Christians,” punctuating his message with a “heartbreak” emoji.

He further engaged with Joel Berry, editor of The Babylon Bee, who urged Chip to address the online hostility and consider the valid concerns expressed by many in his Christian audience. Chip replied, “I appreciate the heartfelt guidance that encourages sincere criticism.”

Representatives for the Magnolia Network have yet to respond to inquiries regarding the situation.