HGTV Changes Show Description After 'Canada's Worst Town' Backlash
HGTV altered the description for 'Home Town Takeover Canada' following community outrage over its initial branding.
HGTV has updated the program description for its new series, "Home Town Takeover Canada," after facing backlash from the community of Port Alberni, British Columbia. The show, which focuses on revitalizing small towns, initially described the location as 'Canada's worst town,' sparking criticism from residents and local news outlets.
The home renovation series, hosted in its Canadian iteration by Bryan and Sarah Baeumler, is set to premiere on October 25. The original description, which referenced a decade-old article from Money Magazine, was perceived as damaging by the community of just over 19,000 residents on Vancouver Island.
Following online complaints and pressure from local leaders, the description was changed to read: 'An overlooked town in Canada gets a major comeback shot.' Local news outlet Nanaimo News Now reported on the change, celebrating that 'HGTV finally fixed the listing on the guide channel.'
Original hosts Ben and Erin Napier, who are American, could not host the Canadian spin-off due to broadcasting regulations requiring Canadian talent for Canadian shows. They previously appeared as guest stars on the show. HGTV and producers RTR Media have been contacted for comment.
