Drama Erupts at School After Nicole Curtis Linked to N-Word Controversy

Nicole Curtis is once again at the center of controversy, but this time it’s much closer to home. The former HGTV star, known for her show Rehab Addict, is facing criticism from parents at her son’s Southern California school after a video resurfaced showing her using the N-word on a filming set in 2022.

The footage, which leaked earlier this month, reignited national scrutiny and ultimately led to Curtis being fired from HGTV and having her show removed from streaming platforms. Some parents say they feel uncomfortable with Curtis volunteering as a room parent for her son’s class.

According to reports from local sources, at least one parent contacted school officials, asking for clarity on how the administration plans to handle the situation. “We want to make sure our children are in a safe and respectful environment,” the parent said, speaking anonymously.

Other parents, particularly those of children of color, echoed concerns about the school’s response, noting that the administration has not publicly addressed the issue. Curtis has not commented on the controversy at the school. The administration also declined to provide a statement when approached by local media.

Many in the community feel she should consider taking a break from volunteering until tensions die down. The timing is especially difficult for Curtis, who had been attempting a comeback after stepping back from television to focus on her mental health and her youngest son, Harper.

On February 11, HGTV confirmed it had cut ties with her, stating that her language “did not align with the network’s values of respect and inclusion.” All of her content was removed from platforms like Discovery+ and HBO Max, erasing over 15 years of her work in home renovation television.

Curtis addressed the firing on social media, explaining that the slur was “a slip of the tongue caused by exhaustion,” but said her priority remained being a good mother and staying transparent with her community. While her explanation has not quelled the anger of critics, she has maintained a low public profile in recent weeks.

Before the controversy, Curtis was filming a refreshed version of her series, aiming to bring her expertise in historic home preservation back to audiences after a three-year hiatus. Now, with her professional reputation in question and her show canceled, the spotlight has shifted to her personal life and her involvement at her son’s school.

Local parents are keeping a close eye on the situation, some hoping the school will take action and address concerns from the community. Curtis, who built her career on saving pre-war homes and celebrating preservation, now finds herself navigating a very different kind of challenge—trying to rebuild trust while protecting her family.

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