Chip and Joanna Gaines face criticism from traditional Christian voices after featuring a same‑sex couple with children in their new Magnolia Network series Back to the Frontier.
The new show follows three families living off-grid like 19th‑century homesteaders. One of those families includes Dallas-based couple Jason Hanna and Joe Riggs and their twin sons. The inclusion of a gay couple aims to reflect a broader definition of family, though some Christian viewers criticize the decision.
Evangelical leader Franklin Graham condemned the casting, stating it contradicts Scripture and promotes “unbiblical” values.
“I hope this isn’t true, but I read today that Chip and Joanna Gaines are featuring a gay couple in their new series. If It is true, it is very disappointing. While we are to love people, we should love them enough to tell them the truth of God’s Word. His Word is absolute truth. God loves us, and His design for marriage is between one man and one woman. Promoting something that God defines as sin is in itself sin,” Graham shared.
Ed Vitagliano of the American Family Association echoed the sentiment, calling the portrayal “a view no Christian should embrace.”
In response, Chip Gaines shared a message on X: “Talk, ask qustns, listen.. maybe even learn. Too much to ask of modern American Christian culture. Judge 1st, understand later/never 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.”
He emphasized that Christians should resist quick condemnation and follow Christ’s command to love. Chip further told critics he appreciates thoughtful, heartfelt, constructive feedback, even as he acknowledged hurt feelings among some fans.
Despite the backlash, Chip and Joanna remain firm in their decision. The show, available on HBO Max via Magnolia Network, signals their intention to feature diverse families, even at the cost of sparking controversy.
