chip gaines responds to criticism over gay couple on new tv series

Chip Gaines is responding to backlash after his new television show featured a gay couple, sparking heated debate within Christian circles.

According to The Christian Post, the reality star pushed back against criticism from some conservative Christians, saying the show’s message is rooted in the biblical instruction to love others, not condemn them.

"Back to the Frontier," a new series on Magnolia Network, premiered Thursday and follows three families as they live without modern conveniences, recreating life from the 1800s. Among the featured participants are Jason and Joe Hanna-Riggs, a same-sex couple raising two children.

Gaines and his wife, Joanna, longtime hosts of "Fixer Upper" and founders of Magnolia Network, are known for openly discussing their Christian faith. So when their latest project included a gay couple, some of their faith-based fan base objected.

Chip Gaines took to X, formerly Twitter, on Sunday to address those critical of the decision. "Talk, ask questions, listen," he wrote, criticizing what he called a rush to judgment within modern Christian culture. He remarked that some non-Christians encounter vitriol and harshness from believers for the first time.

Faith, Family and Homesteading Collide on Screen

Gaines didn't back away from his faith but rather emphasized a focus on compassion. In a follow-up post, he said that Christians should prioritize loving others and avoiding quick judgment, highlighting the phrases "Judge not" and "Love one another."

Reactions from conservative commentators came swiftly. Blogger Matt Walsh accused Gaines of failing to understand core Christian moral teachings, despite his platform. He mocked the idea that Gaines should lecture others on religious matters when, in Walsh's view, he lacked foundational understanding himself.

Joel Berry, managing editor for a popular satirical site, expressed his dismay and shared that he would no longer let his children view the show. He acknowledged that his critique wasn’t rooted in hate but sadness and a desire to shield his children from what he called “lies of the world.”

Gaines Balances Convictions and Criticism

Berry elaborated, stating that loving people doesn’t mean celebrating what he believes to be wrongful behavior. He advised Gaines not to let online hostility shape his decisions but urged him to take seriously the heartfelt disappointment from some believers.

Gaines responded thoughtfully to Berry’s post, saying he genuinely appreciated the constructive criticism and would consider it. He affirmed that listening to sincere feedback is important, even amid larger debates and disagreements.

One pastor’s social media post resonated with Gaines, who responded with a heart emoji. The pastor emphasized that humans aren’t responsible for convicting others of sin, but are instead called to love, citing a common Christian teaching about discipleship being recognized by love.

Past Controversies Resurface Amid New Debate

This is not the first time the couple’s religious beliefs have come under scrutiny. In 2016, their attendance at Antioch Community Church, whose leadership opposes same-sex marriage, led to criticism. At that time, Chip Gaines stated that disagreement does not equate to hatred.

In a 2021 interview, Joanna Gaines defended the couple against claims of being anti-LGBTQ, calling such accusations completely contrary to who they are and what they represent. The family has maintained that they aim to approach all people with grace and respect.

This recent controversy reignited those debates, drawing in responses from religious leaders such as Rev. Franklin Graham. On Saturday, Graham shared a Facebook post saying he was disappointed with the show's direction and emphasized traditional biblical teachings about sexuality and marriage.

Christian Leaders Sound Off on Show’s Message

Graham argued that promoting what the Bible defines as sin is wrong in itself. While agreeing that people should be loved, he maintained that love includes sharing the truth of Scripture, even when it is uncomfortable.

Echoing that sentiment, Ed Vitagliano, the American Family Association vice president, said that the show's message departs from biblical teachings on marriage. He expressed disappointment, particularly because the Gaineses had previously upheld traditional Christian values despite criticism.

Vitagliano concluded that promoting "Back to the Frontier" equates to endorsing an unbiblical view of family, and said that Christians should be clear in their alignment with Scripture on issues related to sexuality and relationships.