Twin brothers David and Jason Benham have expressed disappointment in HGTV for cancelling their new show, Flip It Forward, before an episode even aired. The show was pulled just hours after David Benham’s feelings against homosexuality came under the media spotlight.
On Wednesday, HGTV announced its decision to cancel the show with a one-sentence statement that read, “HGTV has decided not to move forward with the Benham Brothers' series.”
However, it was clear that the decision was influenced by a Right Wing Watch post from Tuesday that published quotes from David Benham that were against homosexuality and same-sex marriage. The site also pointed out that their father is the leader of the anti-abortion group Operation Save America.
In response to the network’s decision, the brothers released a statement, saying that they do not hate anyone and that, as Christians, they were taught not to hate any man. They also said they do not discriminate against anyone who doesn’t believe what they believe.
“The first and last thought on our minds as we begin and end each day is; have we shined Christ’s light today? Our faith is the fundamental calling in our lives, and the centerpiece of who we are. As Christians we are called to love our fellow man. Anyone who suggests that we hate homosexuals or people of other faiths is either misinformed or lying,” the statement reads.
They added that they are “saddened” by the cable network’s decision.
“With all of the grotesque things that can be seen and heard on television today you would think there would be room for two twin brothers who are faithful to our families, committed to biblical principles, and dedicated professionals,” the Benham brothers said. “If our faith costs us a television show then so be it.”