HGTV cancels 'Rehab Addict' after Nicole Curtis used racial slur during filming

HGTV has cancelled Rehab Addict after its host, Nicole Curtis, was recorded using a racial slur while filming the series.

A video published on February 11 showed Curtis using the n-word during production on the same day the programme was scheduled to return to television.

In the clip, she appears to realise immediately what she said and asks for the moment to be “kill[ed]”, though the footage later surfaced online.

In a statement, HGTV said it had been “recently made aware of an offensive racial comment made during the filming of Rehab Addict. Not only is language like this hurtful and disappointing to our viewers, partners, and employees - it does not align with the values of HGTV.”

The network confirmed it had removed the series from all platforms. “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,” the spokesperson added.

Curtis apologised in a statement, saying: “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.”

She also reflected on the programme’s run, stating: “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.”

Rehab Addict premiered in 2010 and followed Curtis as she restored properties facing demolition. The show returned in June 2025 for its ninth season after an extended break, but only two episodes aired before it was paused again.

New episodes had been scheduled to air on February 11 prior to the cancellation.