Let me tell you a heartwarming story about family, teamwork, and homecoming. Erin and Ben Napier, the beloved power couple behind the hit HGTV series Home Town Takeover, are thrilled to welcome back a familiar face for the upcoming season. Jonathan Walters, who originally worked alongside the couple during season three of Home Town, is back in the fold, and it’s like picking up right where they left off. If you’ve ever watched the show, you know how much these folks value community and connection—and this reunion is a perfect example of that.
Ben Napier, who’s now 40, opened up about the deep bond they’ve shared with Jonathan’s family over the years. "Our kids were just little babies at the same time, so we've shared some of the most precious moments together—like swapping diaper-changing tips," he told People in an interview on June 4. It's those little details that make their relationship so special. They’re not just colleagues; they’re friends who’ve walked similar paths as their families grew up side by side.
Erin, 38, chimed in with her own reflections on the collaboration. “And now, look at our kids—they’re practically little apprentices! We were working on one of the houses recently, doing some gardening, and our kids were right there helping us paint garden signs. It’s moments like these that remind us why we do what we do,” she shared with a smile.
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Bringing the Whole Family Along
Erin and Ben are proud parents to two adorable daughters, Helen and Mae, who have become little shadows on set. Mae, who’s only three, is all about jumping into the action. "She loves projects! She’s eager to get her hands dirty, but she’s still so tiny," Erin said fondly. Meanwhile, Helen takes a more observant approach. "She’s my little mama’s girl. She likes to be wherever I am, soaking everything in. Later, she’ll ask me questions about the things she saw, pointing out the pretty details. It’s such a joy to watch her curiosity grow," Erin added.
Fans of Home Town will no doubt recall Jonathan Walters from his days as the project manager on the series, a role he held until the end of season three. His return feels like a full-circle moment for everyone involved, reminding viewers of the show’s roots in genuine relationships and shared experiences.
Goodbyes Are Never Easy
Back in May 2019, Erin announced Jonathan’s departure from the show in a heartfelt post on her Laurel Mercantile blog. It wasn’t an easy decision, but sometimes life takes you in new directions. “He’s been our project manager on #hgtvhometown since the very first episode," she wrote, reflecting on their journey together. "He’s the guy who delivers the bad news but always finds a way to turn it around. And let’s be honest, ladies, he’s also the heartthrob of Home Town (though he’s happily married, so don’t get any ideas 😄).”
She continued, “He’s leaving us for greener pastures—or maybe sunnier shores—in Florida, where he grew up. Last night, we said our goodbyes over dinner at Tabella, just like we’ve done since the show started. Ugh, goodbyes are the worst, y’all.”
New Faces, Same Heart
Months later, Erin revealed that the show would be welcoming some fresh faces to fill Jonathan’s shoes. In a November 2019 blog post, she introduced Chase and Katie, the new project managers. “This season, you’re going to meet some incredible new folks since our beloved project manager, Jonathan, took a new opportunity in Florida, in the town where he grew up,” she wrote. “Chase and Katie have been absolute rock stars, navigating the unique challenges of TV construction. As leaders on the show, it’s our job to work together and make sure these homes come together on time. And I’m thrilled to say we’ve nailed it with the first eight out of sixteen episodes. Can’t wait for you to meet Chase and Katie!”
