In a surprising turn for fans of the famously family-friendly Magnolia Network, Chip and Joanna Gaines are facing significant backlash from some members of the evangelical Christian community after featuring a same-sex couple and their two children on their latest show, Back to the Frontier.
Photo Credit: HBO Max | Magnolia Network
The series, which aired on Magnolia Network on July 10, follows families as they leave behind city life to embrace off-grid living. One episode highlighted a same-sex couple navigating life in the wilderness with their two sons—something that resonated with many viewers as a step toward inclusive, modern storytelling. However, not everyone was pleased.
Professed Christians, Chip & Joanna Gaines, executive produced a new reality show called, Back to the Frontier, which prominently features a homosexual couple among its three families in the eight-episode series…
Why do Christians keep compromising on this issue? 🤦🏼♂️
(via… pic.twitter.com/uCz0Q4MSvp
— Jon Root (@JonnyRoot_) July 11, 2025
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Several conservative Christian groups and commentators reacted with disappointment and anger, accusing the Gaineses of turning away from what they consider to be “biblical values.” One of the most vocal critics was Ed Vitagliano, vice president of the American Family Association (AFA), who stated:
“This is sad and disappointing, because Chip and Joanna Gaines have been very influential in the evangelical community. Moreover, in the past, they have stood firm on the sanctity of marriage regardless of the personal cost that has entailed. We aren’t sure why the Gaines have reversed course, but we are sure of this: Back to the Frontier promotes an unbiblical view of human sexuality, marriage, and family –– a view no Christian should embrace.”
Christians say the new family-friendly reality show from Chip and Joanna Gaines is not family friendly. @WalkerWildmon from @AmericanFamAssc and @Advo_Katy join my Newsmax show to discuss. pic.twitter.com/DafZ4dYeuP
— toddstarnes (@toddstarnes) July 14, 2025
The show had been previously described by Magnolia Network as offering “family-friendly content,” and for many supporters of LGBTQ+ representation, this episode was a welcome sign of progress. Still, the backlash was swift. When Chip Gaines promoted the show via his social media on July 10, his post was flooded with thousands of angry comments, many criticizing the inclusion of a gay couple on a show they expected to reflect conservative values.
Rather than ignoring the criticism, Gaines responded—directly and candidly. On Sunday, he addressed critics with a firm but thoughtful message:
“Talk, ask questions, listen.. maybe even learn. Too much to ask of modern American Christian culture. Judge first, understand later—if ever.”
He continued, highlighting the disheartening contrast between the Christian faith’s ideals and the hate being expressed:
“It’s a sad Sunday when ‘non-believers’ have never been confronted with hate or vitriol until they are introduced to a modern American Christian,”
For years, Chip and Joanna Gaines have cultivated a reputation as wholesome lifestyle icons, appealing to audiences across political and religious spectrums. Their earlier ties to conservative churches and their initial silence on LGBTQ+ inclusion had previously sparked controversy. But this recent show marks a notable shift, reflecting a growing desire—perhaps even a personal evolution—toward greater inclusivity.
In a media landscape where LGBTQ+ families are still fighting for visibility and normalization, moments like these matter. Seeing same-sex parents raising children with love, adventure, and intention on a mainstream platform helps challenge outdated narratives and opens the door for broader acceptance.
While the backlash highlights the resistance that still exists, the Gaineses’ response shows that progress isn’t always loud—it can also come in quiet, thoughtful choices to simply include people as they are. As representation expands, so too does the opportunity for conversations, growth, and (we hope) a little more understanding.
Because at the end of the day, family is family—and that should be the most family-friendly message of all.
So many Christians are spreading hate and lies. I am Niciren Buddhist and I never say bad about anybody’s religion choice, except when that religion is spreading lies and hate. Thank you Chip and Joanna.
I will continue to enjoy the visions, creativity, home improvements and good vibrations of Magnolia. I believe the July 10th program continued the Gaines’s mission of home improvement and education. Perhaps those who judge anyone else’s relationship with God best not judge, lest they be judged. Thank God for Chip and Joanna Gaines
Thank you Chip and Joanna for standing up for love and family. The “American Family Association” these are the same people who vote to put a lying thief, rapist, convicted felon, and a possible child molester to lead our great country. How dare they!!
I love what you said. God loves all people
Growing up gay I had to endure so many years of this kind of reaction to everything gay. Really makes me sad. Can you write an article on the gay family they have in the show as well?
Agreed…..Family IS Family
The “American Family Association” is a designated hate group, as determined by the Southern Poverty Law Association
Spot on!
I have been troubled by Magnolia Network for some time. There’s quite a few programs that I absolutely love but was not wanting to support a particular ideology that went against my beliefs. With the Gaines’ remaining quiet on LGBTQ issues and being very “family oriented” I didn’t think there was any support for diversity, how wrong can one be. My faith and support of the network is renewed, thankfully as they feature some of my favorite programming.
Christians are such hypocrites. The message should be “Love thy neighbor” and “thow shall not judge”. If not those, then just mind your own business.
Thank you, Gaines Famiy. You are the true Christians. Don’t back down.
Take off the blinders and ignore the backlash. They’re full of themselves with questionable family values. Keep heading forward and keep telling these important stories!