Chip and Joanna Gaines on Taking a Risk With New Family Content on Max and Their Next ‘Fixer Upper’ Special Edition

As a seasoned movie reviewer with a penchant for family-friendly content, I must say that the latest offerings from Chip and Joanna Gaines are a breath of fresh air. Having raised my own brood of five little ones, I can attest to the fact that finding shows that everyone in the family can enjoy without fear of questionable content is like finding a needle in a haystack.


This fall, I’ve been all about refining our content lineup with a focus on family-friendly programming. Now, let me clarify, the Gaineses have always been mindful about keeping things kid-friendly (except maybe some of Chip’s daredevil stunts on “Fixer Upper” construction sites!). However, these latest unscripted shows are specifically designed to captivate viewers of all ages: a roller derby competition, a show that compares the talents of humans and hamsters, and a talent contest for individuals who are new to the performing scene later in life.

Chip Gaines explained that with streaming on Max, they noticed an opportunity to develop content that was somewhat larger and distinct from the shows created for Magnolia Network up until now, yet suitable for families to enjoy collectively. Recognizing that they have five children and how modern family members often engage with their devices independently, they thought, ‘What if we made content that encouraged togetherness?’

Among the exciting new series such as “Roller Jam”, recently concluded, “Human vs. Hamster” debuted last week, “Second Chance Stage” launching today, and “Back to the Frontier” coming next year, I find that the Gaineses have only two main themes tying together these four captivating shows – content that is deeply emotional yet suitable for all ages.

Joanna Gaines shared that watching all four episodes of “Roller Jam” will leave you exhilarated, but some parts might even bring tears to your eyes. She explained that it stirs up deep human emotions, making it truly memorable when you can share these feelings with the people you cherish most.

Chip Gaines explained that these new shows are unlike anything fans have seen from the Fixer Upper duo or their previous work on HGTV and now Magnolia Network. Therefore, it’s uncertain whether additional episodes will be produced until the Gaineses determine if this is what viewers crave as much as they desire more Fixer Upper content.

He expressed that these four shows should thrive independently. If they succeed, and audiences embrace them, we’d love to produce more. For now, we’re eagerly monitoring their performance, audience feedback, and overall reception. As we gather this data, decisions will be made. Our approach is often bold and risky, but we might also opt to stick with genres we’re familiar with, like lifestyle shows. However, there seems to be something fresh on the horizon that we’re exploring.

At the same time as they’re exploring new concepts for upcoming ventures, they’re also delving back into familiar grounds with their proven favorites: The Gaineses are presently brainstorming ideas for the next chapter of “Fixer Upper,” which in its latest season showcased a lakehouse renovation, following previous projects such as restoring a castle near their hometown of Waco, Texas, and then revamping a hotel they now manage.

Joanna Gaines mentioned that they’re pondering over some exciting concepts today since they have a creative brainstorming session. Regardless of whether the cameras are rolling or not, renovation is an ongoing process for them, and it’s all about deciding which project will make an engaging story to share. This question is particularly relevant right now as they haven’t decided on the perfect idea yet, but they’re certainly brainstorming what the future holds.

Before “Fixer Upper” makes its next appearance on TV, the Gaines family will premiere the fourth and final installment in their Max series: “Back to the Frontier.” Interestingly, this show is particularly personal for the Gaineses as contestants are striving to live authentically for the American frontier period while constructing their own homes. Unlike Chip and Jo, these builders have significantly fewer resources at their disposal.

Chip Gaines expressed that the families were incredibly endearing since we were nearly at the end of the entire renovation process. Upon entering their world, these families welcomed us with open arms, excitedly showing off their living spaces – what appeared as humble shacks or barns to us. However, after weeks and weeks of laboring on these projects, the families didn’t see them in the same light. They remembered the tireless effort they put into ensuring the walls stood upright, fixing leaking roofs, experimenting with various insulation methods, and keeping the cold air out during winter.

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2024-11-28 22:16