HGTV has pledged to move forward with full force in 2026, with a top executive confirming a packed schedule of returning and new shows set to launch in January. This announcement comes after a summer of significant cuts to popular programming, which had left many loyal viewers concerned about the channel's future direction.
A Strong Start After a Summer of Cuts
Howard Lee, the Chief Creative Officer of US Networks at Warner Bros. Discovery, has now promised a powerful beginning to the new year. He directly addressed the audience's worries, stating the network is committed to delivering both ratings and entertainment. Lee confirmed that fan-favourite programmes including Zillow Gone Wild and Castle Impossible will be back on screens next month. He also introduced a brand new escapist format, Wild Vacation Rentals.
"HGTV is going full steam ahead into next year," Lee declared. "We're bringing back shows like Zillow Gone Wild and Castle Impossible that deliver both ratings and entertainment value to our viewers and trying new escapist formats like Wild Vacation Rentals that will take fans to places they never dreamed of from the comfort of their own home."
New and Returning Shows for January
The new series, Wild Vacation Rentals, will feature actresses and comedians Sherry Cola and D'Arcy Carden on an epic girls' trip across America to seek out the country's most extraordinary holiday homes. Across eight half-hour episodes, the duo will explore three enchanting, eccentric, or downright bizarre rentals in popular destinations per episode, ultimately selecting one 'must stay' property.
The show's synopsis promises a tour of endless getaway possibilities, "from a cave to a bird's nest and a missile silo to an old western town." Sherry and D'Arcy will provide hilariously honest reviews, share unbelievable stories from the owners, and marvel at the incredible designs and unique quirks of each property.
Meanwhile, the breakout hit Zillow Gone Wild, hosted by actor and comedian Jack McBrayer, will return for 16 fresh episodes. Inspired by the viral Instagram account, the show continues to tour the weirdest, wackiest, and wildest properties on the market. Jack will meet the unique characters behind these non-traditional homes and delve into each property's history, as well as the intriguing backstories of the buyers and sellers involved.
Major Renovations and Continued Commitment
Also returning in 2026 is Castle Impossible. After attracting a massive 14.1 million viewers across linear and streaming platforms for its first season, renovators Daphne and Ian Fig will continue the monumental restoration of her late grandfather's 500-year-old chateau. The estate is located on 130 acres just outside Paris, France.
The new season will focus on "the revival and sustainability of their historic Chateau de Lesigny" by expanding their wedding and event businesses to fund the essential renovations. In eight new episodes, the Figs will work on pivotal rooms including a honeymoon suite in the dove tower, a tea salon, a dungeon tavern, and a library. They will also restore the chateau's gatehouse into a residence for Daphne's grandmother.
This January slate follows an announcement weeks earlier that three other popular shows—Home Town, Ugliest House in America, and Cheap A$$ Beach House—will also return with nearly 40 new episodes. These confirmations arrive just six months after the network axed several other fan-favourite series, including Bargain Block, Married to Real Estate, Farmhouse Fixer, Izzy Does It, Christina on the Coast, The Flipping El Moussas, and Battle on the Beach.
The clear message from HGTV's leadership is one of renewed confidence and a strategic shift towards proven hits and fresh, escapist content as the network sails into 2026.
