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HGTV officially canceled the long-running series Rehab Addict on Thursday, February 12, 2026, after a video surfaced showing host Nicole Curtis using a racial slur.
The footage, which reportedly dates back two years, captures the 49-year-old home restoration expert using the n-word during a moment of frustration while filming.
HGTV released a statement explaining that the language does not align with their company values and confirmed they have removed all traces of the show from their network and streaming platforms.
Following the cancellation, Nicole Curtis’ ex-boyfriend, Shane Maguire, spoke out to defend her, stating that she is "not a racist."
Speaking to TMZ, Shane Maguire acknowledged that the language was offensive but insisted it was an isolated incident that does not reflect her true character or beliefs.
He described her as a person deeply committed to her community and noted that they have worked hard to co-parent their son in an environment of respect.
Despite his support, the public backlash has remained intense since the video went viral on Wednesday.
Nicole Curtis responded to the controversy by issuing an apology via social media and text messages.
She stated that the word used in the video is "wrong" and emphasized that it is not a regular part of her vocabulary.
She told her followers that she is focusing on her relationships and her community rather than her career at this time.
The timing of the leak was particularly damaging, as it occurred on the same day the ninth season of Rehab Addict was scheduled to premiere.
The cancellation marks a sudden end to Nicole Curtis’ fifteen-year journey with the network. Since 2010, she earned a massive following for her work renovating historic homes in Detroit and Minneapolis.
While some fans expressed disappointment over the end of the show, others praised the network for taking a firm stance against the use of racial slurs.
Nicole Curtis has not yet indicated whether she plans to continue her restoration work through other independent media channels in the future.
