For five unforgettable seasons, Chip and Joanna Gaines became household names, captivating HGTV audiences with their stunning home renovations on Fixer Upper. It felt like a dream that would never end—until the couple dropped a bombshell in 2017. Fans were left reeling when Chip and Joanna announced they were stepping away from the network and bringing their beloved show to a close. But what led to this decision, and where are they now? Let’s dive into the full story.

Why Did Chip and Joanna Gaines Leave HGTV?

It all began in Waco, Texas, where a young couple with a passion for design and a love for family decided to take a leap of faith. When the first season of Fixer Upper premiered in May 2013, no one could have predicted the phenomenon it would become. Chip and Joanna Gaines weren’t just flipping houses; they were creating homes filled with heart, history, and a touch of Southern charm. Their five adorable children—Drake, Ella Rose, Duke, Emmie Kay, and Crew—were always at the center of their world, adding a layer of warmth to every episode.

With the help of their loyal team, including Clint Harp, Jimmy Don Holmes, and Saul "Shorty" Sanchez, Chip and Joanna transformed dilapidated properties into dream homes. Each project was a testament to their creativity, hard work, and dedication. Over the course of four more seasons, they became a ratings powerhouse, drawing millions of viewers who tuned in week after week to witness their magic.

Read also:
Hugh Jackman And Sutton Foster Love In The Spotlight

But on September 26, 2017, Chip and Joanna made a bold announcement that shocked fans worldwide. In a heartfelt message on their Magnolia blog, they revealed that season five of Fixer Upper would be their last. “It is with both sadness and expectation that we share the news that season 5 of Fixer Upper will be our last,” they wrote. “This wasn’t an easy decision, but we believe it’s the right one for our family. We’ve grown alongside you, and your support has meant everything to us. Saying goodbye to the show that introduced us to so many amazing people is bittersweet, but we’re excited about what’s next.”

The series finale aired on April 3, 2018, leaving fans to wonder what the future held for the Gaines family. Would they retreat from the spotlight, or was this just the beginning of something even bigger?

What’s Next for Chip and Joanna Gaines?

If you thought Chip and Joanna were stepping away from the spotlight entirely, think again! Just a year after leaving HGTV, the couple announced their return to television—this time on their very own network, Magnolia Network. Launched in January 2022, Magnolia Network quickly became a hit, offering a range of design and lifestyle programming that resonated with fans of all ages.

Chip Gaines looks at wife Joanna Gaines on red carpet — Noam Galai/Getty Images for TIMENoam Galai/Getty Images for TIME

The Magnolia Empire Continues to Thrive

While they may have left the network that first brought them fame, Chip and Joanna’s influence only continues to grow. Today, they’re the proud owners of the Magnolia Market at the Silos, a beloved shopping destination that draws visitors from all over the world. They’ve also authored multiple best-selling books, sharing their insights on design, entrepreneurship, and life. And of course, they’ve expanded their media presence through Magnolia Network, where they star in several popular shows.

But perhaps one of their most exciting ventures is Hotel 1928, a stunning boutique hotel located in downtown Waco. It’s a testament to their commitment to preserving history while embracing modern luxury. In a May 2023 interview with Deadline, Chip reflected on their incredible journey. “What’s been cool about us—and what I’m proud of—is that we’ve always stayed true to ourselves,” he said. “We didn’t try to copy anyone else’s success. If we’ve disrupted anything, it’s because we’re original and authentic. That’s what makes us stand out.”