TV mogul defends same-sex couple after preacher's criticism


() Magnolia Network co-founder Chip Gaines is pushing back after evangelist Franklin Graham recently criticized the reality show “Back to the Frontier” because it includes a same-sex couple.

On Saturday, Graham posted on X to say it was “very disappointing” to learn the show features a gay couple. The son of the late preacher Billy Graham said it’s important to “love people” but added same-same marriage violates God’s “design for marriage … between one man and one woman.”

“Back to the Frontier” showcases a group of modern-day families who agree to experience the hardships of 19th century American settlers. One of the families is led by Jason Hanna and Joe Riggs of Dallas, a married couple with 10-year-old twin boys.

Gaines took to X on Sunday to express disappointment in American Christian culture, which he suggested is quick to judge.

“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,” the media mogul said.

Gaines and his wife, Joanna, are the founders of lifestyle brand Magnolia and the Magnolia television network. They initially found success with the HGTV show “Fixer Upper.”

You May Also Like

Christopher Jackson Returns as George Washington in Hamilton, Reprising His Tony-Nominated Role

NEW YORK — Christopher Jackson, a member of the original cast of…

Man Jailed Over Arson Attacks on Homes Linked to Starmer as Russian-Speaking Handler Evades Capture

LONDON — The Russian-speaking handler known only as “El Money” was dissatisfied.…

Volusia County Wildfire Grows to Nearly 4,000 Acres on U.S. Forest Land

Fire is west of DeLand Brush fire burning in West Volusia County.…

South Africa Marks 50 Years Since Soweto Uprising as Youth Continue to Face Deep Challenges

JOHANNESBURG – South Africa on Tuesday commemorates the 50th anniversary of the…

Teen Taken Into Custody After Adult Murder Charges in Carnival Cruise Stepsister Killing

MIAMI — A teenager accused of sexually assaulting and killing his 18-year-old…

Congo Opposition Criticizes New Bill as Potential Path to Third Term for President Tshisekedi

DAKAR — Congo’s opposition on Tuesday denounced a newly adopted bill they…

Amy Griffin Files Lawsuit Over Claims She Took Abuse Accounts for Memoir *The Tell*

LOS ANGELES — Author Amy Griffin filed a defamation lawsuit Monday against…

Father’s Day Weekend Forecast: Extreme Heat Builds as Storm Chances Rise

ORLANDO, Fla. – Central Florida is in for another steamy, moisture-filled day,…

Asian Markets Rise as Japan’s Nikkei Surges Past 70,000 Ahead of BOJ Rate Decision

TOKYO — Asian stock markets were mostly higher on Tuesday, with Japan’s…

Volusia County Wildfire Scorches 600 Acres at Lake Woodruff Wildlife Refuge

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — A wildfire covering an estimated 600 acres is…