Longtime HGTV Hosts Won’t Host New Season of Popular Show
Why Erin and Ben Napier Are Stepping Away from Hosting ‘Home Town Takeover’
HGTV fans have cherished Erin and Ben Napier as the heart and soul of the hit series “Home Town” since its debut in 2016. The couple’s genuine passion for restoring historic homes in Laurel, Mississippi, has captivated audiences nationwide. Their success led to the spinoff, “Home Town Takeover,” which launched in 2021 and expanded their mission to revitalize small towns beyond their hometown.
However, the upcoming new season of “Home Town Takeover” introduces a significant change: Erin and Ben Napier will not return as the main hosts. Instead, the show will be led by a new pair of Canadian hosts. This shift is tied directly to Canadian broadcasting regulations and the country’s commitment to promoting local talent.
The Impact of Canadian Broadcasting Laws on the Show’s Hosting
The reason behind this hosting transition lies in the Online Streaming Act passed by Canada in 2023. This legislation aims to enhance Canadian content in media, ensuring that Canadian audiences see themselves reflected in the shows they watch. One of the key provisions mandates that Canadian broadcast shows must be hosted by Canadian talent.
Erin Napier explained in an interview with Cinemablend, “Our production company is Canadian. The people who make our show, they’re passionate about this Canadian takeover. But because we’re Americans, we’re not legally allowed to host the show. We can only be in it as, like, guest stars.” Ben Napier echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the legal necessity for Canadian hosts: “A Canadian broadcast show has to be hosted by Canadian talent.”
This law supports Canadian creators and the creative industry by providing more opportunities for Canadian artists and professionals to shine on national platforms. As a result, the Napiers will step back from their hosting roles, allowing new Canadian hosts to take the lead in the upcoming season.
What Fans Can Expect from the New Season of ‘Home Town Takeover’
While the Napiers will not be the main hosts, they are expected to appear as guest stars, maintaining a connection to the show’s roots. The new season will mark the first time “Home Town Takeover” is set outside the United States, with the series moving to a Canadian town for its latest renovation project.
Details about the new Canadian hosts have not yet been announced, but fans can anticipate the same heartfelt renovations and community revitalization that made the show a success. The fresh perspective brought by Canadian talent promises to add a unique flavor to the series while honoring the spirit of the original.
The Napiers’ journey from renovating homes in Laurel to leading a nationwide movement of small-town restoration has been inspiring. Their departure from hosting duties marks the end of an era but also the beginning of an exciting new chapter for “Home Town Takeover.”
Conclusion
The upcoming season of “Home Town Takeover” will bring exciting changes, including new Canadian hosts stepping in due to broadcasting laws. Although Erin and Ben Napier won’t be the main hosts this time, their legacy continues as they remain involved as guest stars. Fans can look forward to the same heartfelt renovations and community spirit that have defined the show, now with a fresh Canadian twist. Stay tuned for announcements about the new hosts and get ready to experience the next chapter of this beloved series. Don’t miss out—subscribe to HGTV updates and be the first to know when the new season premieres!
