In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the home renovation television community, HGTV has abruptly canceled its long-running series *Rehab Addict* following the emergence of previously unaired footage showing host Nicole Curtis using a racial slur during filming. The incident, which surfaced on February 11, 2026—the exact day new episodes were slated to premiere after a hiatus—led to the network’s swift decision to pull the show entirely from its platforms.

Nicole Curtis, the 49-year-old Detroit-based renovator known for her hands-on approach to restoring historic homes, has been the face of *Rehab Addict* since its debut on DIY Network in 2010, later moving to HGTV in 2014. Over nine seasons, the show built a dedicated fanbase by showcasing Curtis’s passion for preserving architectural heritage in cities like Detroit, Minneapolis, and beyond. Her no-nonsense style, combined with her personal story of overcoming challenges as a single mother, made her a relatable figure in the reality TV landscape.

The controversy erupted when RadarOnline published exclusive production footage from approximately two years earlier, captured during a renovation project. In the clip, Curtis is seen struggling with a difficult task—possibly maneuvering a heavy item or dealing with a stubborn fixture. Frustrated, she mutters, “Why? It’s my last one,” before exclaiming, “Oh, fart n*****.” The phrase appears to be an improvised, exasperated outburst, perhaps an attempt at a playful or absurd expression of annoyance (some observers speculated it was a garbled version of “fart knocker” or similar slang), but the inclusion of the racial slur was unmistakable and immediately inflammatory.

Curtis’s reaction in the moment was one of instant regret. She immediately turned to the crew, exclaiming in shock, “What the f*** was that I just said?” and reportedly asked for the footage to be deleted. The segment never aired in the original broadcast episode from June 2025, but the leaked clip—described by some outlets as coming from a “hot mic” or behind-the-scenes recording—quickly spread across social media and entertainment news sites.

HGTV responded with decisive action the same day. In an official statement provided to multiple outlets including The Hollywood Reporter, People, and Deadline, the network declared: “HGTV was 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 all episodes of the series from its linear channel, streaming services like Discovery+, HBO Max, and other platforms, effectively ending the show after 15 years on air.

The cancellation came mere hours before the planned return of season nine episodes, which Curtis had enthusiastically announced on social media just days prior. The timing amplified the shock for fans, many of whom had been eagerly awaiting the continuation of her latest projects, including restorations in her hometown of Detroit.

In the wake of the leak, Curtis issued a public apology via Instagram on February 12, 2026. She expressed deep remorse, stating that the word “is wrong and not part of my vocabulary and never has been.” She emphasized her immediate self-correction in the footage and clarified that she often “throws words together” in moments of frustration during intense work. Curtis also claimed the footage was “stolen” and potentially “manipulated,” vowing to release the full raw context soon after to provide clarity. She shifted focus to her family, noting that being a mother takes precedence over her career at this time, and thanked supporters for their understanding.

The incident has reignited broader discussions about accountability in reality television, where off-the-cuff moments can be captured and later weaponized. Curtis’s career has not been without prior controversies, including public disputes over historic preservation battles, custody issues, and debates around her on-screen persona. However, this marks the most severe backlash yet, resulting in the outright loss of her flagship platform.

Industry observers note that HGTV’s rapid response reflects the network’s commitment to inclusivity and sensitivity in an era where social media amplifies such incidents within hours. Similar cases in recent years have seen swift repercussions for public figures, underscoring how one unguarded phrase can overshadow decades of work.

As of February 13, 2026, Curtis has not announced future plans, though her Instagram post hinted at transparency moving forward. Fans are divided: some defend her as a hardworking renovator caught in a momentary lapse, while others express disappointment over the use of such harmful language, regardless of intent.

The abrupt end of *Rehab Addict* leaves a void in HGTV’s lineup of authentic renovation programming. Curtis’s legacy—tied to revitalizing neglected properties and inspiring DIY enthusiasts—now faces reevaluation amid this scandal. Whether she rebounds with new projects or steps away from the spotlight remains uncertain, but the episode serves as a stark reminder of the power of words in the public eye.