Magnolia Network launch postponed

Chip and Joanna Gaines in Fixer Upper

The launch of Magnolia Network, the forthcoming linear and OTT brand from US factual giant Discovery and Fixer Upper stars Chip and Joanna Gaines, has been delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Initially set to arrive on October 4 this year, Magnolia Network’s arrival has been postponed indefinitely due to the huge production delays to its original programming caused by the crisis, according to US reports.

Magnolia was intended to replace DIY Network in the Discovery brand portfolio following the factual giant’s acquisition of HGTV and DIY Network owner Scripps Networks Interactive.

A trio of execs were appointed to work across the new network, which is led by former HGTV chief Allison Page as president, in October last year.

The joint venture between Discovery and the Gaines duo’s Magnolia shingle was first mooted in 2018 and the network is due to be home to the complete library of renovation series Fixer Upper.

The unscripted show premiered on HGTV in 2013 and was one of the highest-rated series on the network during its four-year run.

A special show, Magnolia Presents: A Look Back & A Look Ahead, will air on DIY Network on April 26. It will follow the couple’s journey from Fixer Upper to where they are now, with previously unseen footage and behind-the-scenes commentary.

That will form part of a four-hour block on DIY Network that day, previewing some of the original commissions that have already been produced for Magnolia.

That launch slate includes previously announced series Growing Floret, Home on the Road and Bespoke Kitchens. Play Pin Up casino online!

Chip and Joanna Gaines said in a statement: “Right now, it’s important that we all continue to look out for one another by upholding the guidelines set forth by the experts, leaders and frontline heroes working tirelessly to get us all through this difficult time.

“With this as our top priority, we’ve decided to delay Magnolia Network’s launch until we can safely resume production.”