Once upon a time,MTVwas all about music. With nearly every hour devoted to music videos, charismatic VJs, and new ways to experience favorite songs and artists, its launch was nothing short of revolutionary. The first video to air—“Video Killed the Radio Star” by The Buggles—set the tone for a cultural shift that forever changed how we consumed music. But like much in pop culture, MTV evolved.Carson DalyandTotal Request Livehad their moment, butthat alone couldn’t sustain the network. What did? A pivot to reality TV—docuseries, competitions, and youth-centered formats that spoke to the next generation. Instead of filling programming gaps with more music, MTV began leaning on Paramount-owned films to fill the void.
HGTVseems to be following a similar origin story.It once revolved entirely around home and garden content—renovations, real estate, design tips, and DIY education. It was the go-to destination for viewers looking to beautify their homes and learn something along the way.But just like MTV, HGTV had to evolve.First, the gardening shows faded. Then came a rise in personality-driven makeover series. Today, while reruns of classic fan favorites still offer comfort, you’ll also catch the occasional movie slotted in to pad the schedule. So, what changed?And why are networks once rooted in niche, educational content now airing scripted films to fill airtime?Let’s dig into the shift.
Why HGTV Is Shifting Again
As first noted by House Beautiful, during the downtime in that lull between the holiday rush and the New Year, HGTV opted to drop some of their typical fan-favorite reruns in favor of some of the most random movies for your viewing pleasure. ThinkThe Intern, starringAnne HathawayandRobert De Niro, andThe Notebook, starringRyan GoslingandRachel McAdams. These void-fillers caused some immediate panic for some of HGTV’s most devoted followers, but it was only a temporary moment in time. While the network clearly had other shows they could have tossed into those slots,the minimal movie moments gave some fans a reprieve before they got back to watching their favorite HGTV personalities.
But while HGTV caused some panic that it might be falling into the MTV trap, other eagle-eyed fans have noticed that certain types of programs are still not being championed.New shows with new stars are having difficulty finding their footingwhen compared to those tried-and-true tested personalities. It’s why some shows likeRico to the Rescue, starringRico Leon, andBuilding Roots, starringBen and Cristi Dozier, have not continued beyond their two seasons. For Rico,he claimed the show ending was on his terms. The Doziers claimed it wasdue to their dedication to their renovation work and entrepreneurial endeavors.Instead, HGTV relied on shows that have maintained success, likeHome TownandFixer to Fabulous, as well as building up the reality competition seriesRock the Blockas their newfound centerpiece. Oh, and if they need new programming, they call on people likethe Scott Brothersto see if they have time for anotherProperty Brothers-inspired spinoff.
Joanna Gaines and Erin Napier May Have Different Styles But They Just Blended Two Separate Aesthetics — and Made It Look Effortless
Erin Napier and Joanna Gaines' eye for design come from the same family tree.
Will HGTV Ever Be the Same?
With reality television outdoing the formerly beloved educational-led series of HGTV,it’s not surprising that HGTV has evolved in this direction.But as the network learned following the departure ofChip and Joanna Gainesand the divorce ofTarek El MoussaandChristina Haack, nothing is certain, and their arsenal of talent always needs to be filled. While not every new show takes off with the fans, havingRock the Blockhas not only turned into a primetime hit, but it also gives newer stars a platform to earn the audience they need for their primary series. Think of it as the minor leagues. But look at howRock the Blockhas catapultedBrian and Mika Kleinschmidtto the top of the heap. Their victory on Season 2 has helped bring audiences over to100 Day Dream Home.Renovation Alohahad a good first season, but onceTristyn and Kamohai Kalamajoined Season 6 ofRock the Block, the second season of their Hawaii-based series has had newfound success.
HGTV is continuing to evolve. WhenHilary FarrleftLove It or List It, the series could have gone on to greener pastures. Instead, they tappedPage Turnerto take on the vacant position on the long-running show, allowing the ratings juggernaut to remain in the lineup while infusing the show with new energy. At this point in time, flipping shows are going to continue. The Southern-based husband and wife-led series is going to continue. Hollywood stars are going to make cameos every so often. HGTV is not what it used to be, but it still maintains the heart it’s always had. So,next time HGTV randomly opts to play a Hollywood flick, don’t panic.It’s just a temporary reprieve before the new shows heat up.
All HGTV series are available to stream on Max.
Rock the Block
