Napier Duo Steps Back From 'Home Town Kickstart' to Mentor New Talent

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  Published in House and Home on Tuesday, March 17th 2026 at 20:06 GMT by People
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Passing the Torch: The Napiers Step Back From 'Home Town Kickstart' to Cultivate New Talent

Erin and Ben Napier, the faces and hearts of HGTV's Home Town, are embarking on a new chapter, one that sees them shift from on-screen hosts to executive producers and mentors for the upcoming spin-off, Home Town Kickstart. The couple, known for their dedication to restoring historic homes and breathing new life into their hometown of Laurel, Mississippi, announced they will not be hosting the new series, a decision rooted in their desire to foster emerging talent within the home renovation and community revitalization space. The news, first reported by People magazine, has sparked conversation about the evolving landscape of reality television and the intentionality behind the Napiers' brand.

Home Town captivated audiences with its authentic portrayal of family, community, and the charm of Southern living. Erin's design sensibilities, coupled with Ben's construction expertise, proved a winning formula. The show wasn't simply about renovation; it was about honoring history, celebrating local artisans, and demonstrating the profound impact of investing in a community. This success naturally led to discussions of expansion, culminating in Home Town Kickstart. However, rather than simply replicating the original formula with a different location, the Napiers opted for a more unconventional path.

"We love the concept of Home Town Kickstart and we're so excited to watch it," Erin Napier explained. "But we really felt like to do it justice, we wanted to give someone else a chance to be the face of it." Ben Napier echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities for new voices. "It's a chance to give someone else a platform to shine and connect with a community, and we're excited to see that happen."

Home Town Kickstart will focus its revitalization efforts on Lebanon, Virginia, a town eager for a similar transformation to the one Laurel experienced. While the Napiers won't be physically swinging hammers or sketching designs on camera, their influence will remain significant. They will serve as executive producers, providing guidance and support to the new host and crew. This strategic move suggests a long-term vision beyond simply creating television content; it's about building a sustainable model for community restoration and mentorship.

This decision is particularly noteworthy in a television landscape often dominated by established personalities. Many reality stars cling to their on-screen roles, fearing a loss of relevance. The Napiers' willingness to step back demonstrates a refreshing level of self-awareness and a commitment to something larger than their own celebrity. It's a powerful statement about prioritizing growth and opportunity for others, even within a competitive industry.

The choice to mentor a new host also aligns with the core values presented in Home Town. The show consistently highlighted the importance of passing down skills and knowledge, whether it was preserving traditional craftsmanship or encouraging young entrepreneurs. By extending this philosophy to the spin-off, the Napiers are essentially practicing what they preach.

The premiere of Home Town Kickstart was initially slated for 2024, but as of today, Wednesday, March 18th, 2026, details regarding the new host and premiere date are eagerly anticipated by fans. The expectation is that the selection process was rigorous, focusing on individuals who possess not only renovation skills but also a genuine connection to community building and storytelling. Many speculate that HGTV sought someone with a similar down-to-earth appeal and authentic enthusiasm that made the Napiers so relatable.

While some fans may be disappointed not to see Erin and Ben leading the charge in Lebanon, Virginia, their decision underscores a powerful message: success isn't solely about individual achievement, but about empowering others to achieve theirs. It will be fascinating to observe how Home Town Kickstart unfolds under new leadership and whether it can capture the same magic that made the original Home Town a beloved and impactful series. The Napiers' continued involvement as mentors suggests they are dedicated to ensuring its success - not as a continuation of their personal brand, but as a testament to the power of community and the potential of a new generation of home renovation enthusiasts.