Chip and Joanna Gaines have encountered unexpected criticism following the release of the trailer for their new show, Fixer Upper: The Lakehouse. The trailer, which debuted last week, has sparked a debate among their loyal fanbase. Despite their long-standing popularity since their HGTV debut with Fixer Upper in 2013, some fans are now accusing the couple of flaunting their wealth.
The sneak peek, uploaded to Magnolia Network’s Instagram, showcases the couple’s latest renovation project. However, several fans took to the comments to express their displeasure, suggesting that the Gaineses were “showing off” by renovating another luxurious property.
One fan commented, “I don’t like watching HGTV personalities renovating their own luxury 2nd or 3rd homes. It looks like they’re showing off.” Another echoed this sentiment, stating, “That show is no longer enjoyable,” and mentioned they stopped watching after the couple began charging for their network.
In response to these criticisms, many Instagram users defended Chip and Joanna. “Don’t be jealous they’ve earned it,” one supporter remarked. Another added, “What’s wrong with other’s success?”
It’s worth noting that during the trailer, Chip and Joanna did not mention keeping the lakehouse for themselves. It appears the renovation is intended to flip the property, consistent with their past projects.
The trailer also highlights the significance of the renovation coinciding with the 10-year anniversary of Fixer Upper’s debut on HGTV. “I think with this lakehouse, there’s something about it that just feels significant that this project landed on our ten-year Fixer anniversary,” Joanna stated. Chip added, “It was really meant to be.”
In a press release for their upcoming six-episode series, which will air on Magnolia Network and HGTV, the couple reflected on their journey. “Though a lot has changed and evolved in the decade between then and now, our love for home is still at the heart of everything we do,” they shared. “We feel honored that we get to continue pouring into the stories of these homes across Waco, and we’re excited to share our latest project with you this summer with Fixer Upper: The Lakehouse.”
The new series is set to premiere on Sunday, June 2. Despite the backlash, Chip and Joanna’s commitment to their work and their evolving relationship remains steadfast. In a candid interview with People magazine last November, they discussed the changes in their relationship and family life over 20 years of marriage. They acknowledged the shifts in their dynamic and their efforts to keep their children grounded despite their growing empire.
Joanna emphasized the importance of allowing their children to find their own paths, saying, “You need your own identity. When you’re finished with college, go do some stuff on your own. Learn some stuff. And then if you want to come back years later and teach us, we’re here.”
Chip and Joanna’s enduring partnership and their ability to navigate change have been key to their success. Joanna reflected, “From the moment I met him, he’s always experienced change in a positive way. Even if it was negative, it was, ‘All right. What do we do next?'”
As they continue to grow their brand and take on new projects, Chip and Joanna Gaines remain optimistic about the future. Chip concluded, “I hope that it’s just the beginning. I hope that we get to look back in 20 years from now, and feel just as confident that we were meant to be. We really feel like we are in some ways just getting started.”