HGTV Cancels Show, Social Media Backlash Ensues As Benham Brothers Respond
When HGTV decided to cancel the Benham Brothers’ show Flip It Forward they probably didn’t think their decision was going to become so controversial. Now the twins are speaking out about the latest developments and social media is in an uproar.
In an interview with Deadline, David and Jason Benham are taking the news with a grain of salt and defending their right to have their own opinions.
The HGTV show, which never had a chance to take-off, was axed, when a report published by People for the American Way revealed that the Benham brothers and their father have made some anti-gay statements they see as offensive.
The twins had this to say about HGTV cancelling their show:
“The first and last thought on our minds as we begin and end each day is; have we shined Christ’s light today? Our faith is the fundamental calling in our lives, and the centerpiece of who we are. As Christians we are called to love our fellow man. Anyone who suggests that we hate homosexuals or people of other faiths is either misinformed or lying.”
“We were saddened to hear HGTV’s decision. With all of the grotesque things that can be seen and heard on television today you would think there would be room for two twin brothers who are faithful to our families, committed to biblical principles, and dedicated professionals. If our faith costs us a television show then so be it.”
HGTV’s made the announcement of the show’s cancellation on May 7 on its Facebook page, simply saying:
[fb link=”https://www.facebook.com/HGTV/posts/10152245595334213?] HGTV [/fb]
Since then, almost 6,000 people have “liked” the post and numerous others have left lengthy comments on the page, many in support of the Benham brothers and their stance, as is the case with this one from Christie Harris Johnston:
“I thought that this was America where people have the right to their personal beliefs! It doesn’t matter whether we agree with the Benham Brothers. They have the right to their personal opinions and personal faith without being dropped! By doing this, HGTV is showing just as much discrimination as if they fired the Benham Brothers for being gay! Don’t people see what is happening? It’s insane!”
Facebook is not the only social media site that has seen a backlash following HGTV’s decision to cancel the Benham brothers’ show, Google and Twitter have been flooded with strong opinions on both sides. No official comment from HGTV has been received at this point.
The controversial decision is similar to that taken by A&E, when they suspended Duck Dynasty patriarch, Phil Robertson, after he made statements to GQ magazine regarding gays, last year. Social media saw equally heated exchanges in that instance.
What do you think of HGTV’s decision to cancel the Benham brothers’ show?
[Image via Bing]
