Chip Gaines, 50, and Joanna Gaines, 47, Have a Surprising New Reality Show That Reflects a Major Life Change
Chip and Joanna Gaines, the beloved couple who rose to fame through their HGTV sensation “Fixer Upper,” are set to return to the television landscape with an innovative new program titled “Back to The Frontier.” This reality show, which will be showcased on their Magnolia Network, signifies a bold shift from their traditional home renovation format, as it immerses families into a historical setting reminiscent of the late 1800s.
The Concept of “Back to The Frontier”

“Back to The Frontier” introduces a unique premise where three distinct families from various regions of the United States embark on an extraordinary journey into the past. Families such as the Lopers from Alabama, the Hanna-Riggs from Texas, and the Halls from Florida will be tasked with living a pioneer lifestyle devoid of modern conveniences, including technology, running water, and electricity for a duration of eight weeks.
Throughout this immersive experience, participants will confront numerous challenges reflective of frontier life, such as constructing their own shelters, raising livestock, foraging for food, and managing their limited supplies. This engaging social experiment not only tests their survival skills but also deepens their understanding of cooperation and family dynamics in an era long past.
Shifting Priorities for the Gaines’ Family

The announcement of “Back to The Frontier” comes as the Gaines family undergoes its own significant transformation. Having garnered immense popularity with “Fixer Upper,” which launched in May 2013 and ran five successful seasons until 2018, Chip and Joanna chose to conclude the series amid growing pressures and a desire to prioritize their family. With their newfound focus on life beyond television, they established the Magnolia Network in 2022, allowing them to rediscover their passion for storytelling that aligns with their core values of family and simplicity.
Chip has been vocal about the pressures associated with the production of “Fixer Upper,” emphasizing the need for balance between their work and family life. The couple’s journey has led them to embrace a vision for television that reflects their personal growth and fosters deeper connections among themselves and their audience. In “Back to The Frontier,” they aim to remind viewers of the essential components of family life while exploring the values that underpin a fulfilling existence.
What to Expect from the Show
This reality series promises to engage viewers of all backgrounds by presenting relatable insights into the struggles and triumphs of life without the luxuries that define contemporary living. As Chip and Joanna guide these families through their eight-week journey, audiences will witness powerful transformations and the rekindling of family ties.
In this new chapter of their lives, Chip and Joanna Gaines invite their audience to reflect on the simple pleasures of life and the importance of connecting with loved ones. “Back to The Frontier” serves as a reminder that, ultimately, the foundations of happiness lie within our relationships and shared experiences.