**Jonathan Knight’s New HGTV Show: A Fast-Paced Journey of Transformation and Emotion**
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Jonathan Knight, best known as a member of the iconic boy band New Kids on the Block (NKOTB), is expanding his horizons with a new HGTV series titled “Crashers.” In an exclusive interview, Knight shared how this show will differ from his previous efforts in home renovation and the emotional weight it carries for families involved.
“Crashers” promises to deliver quick, impactful transformations of troubled spaces in homes, adhering to a tight 72-hour deadline. Premiering on June 8, the series reinvigorates HGTV’s beloved ambush renovation format that originally captivated audiences from 2008 to 2011. Knight will surprise unsuspecting homeowners in various public locations, such as hardware stores or furniture showrooms, and then completely overhaul their designated rooms, all while requiring them to vacate their homes.
Reflecting on the transition from his earlier HGTV venture, “Farmhouse Fixer,” Knight remarked on the challenges that led to the latter show’s conclusion. “That was my baby,” he stated, expressing pride in the detailed restorations he carried out over the course of several seasons. However, the lengthy production schedule began to take a toll. Knight explained that juggling filming with his tour commitments created a relentless cycle of travel and work that he ultimately found unsustainable.
“Farmhouse was a slow and beautiful process, but it took a long time; the last season lasted 16 months,” he lamented. “With the band’s touring schedule, I found myself flying to Boston on days off to film before rushing back to the next concert.” Acknowledging the demands of his dual career, Knight concluded that it was best to move on from “Farmhouse Fixer,” allowing him to embrace new opportunities.
The new format of “Crashers” offers a different set of challenges and rewards. Knight expressed enthusiasm for its concentrated focus on individual spaces, allowing him to employ his skills in a more dynamic way. “With this show, I can crash anything—be it a kitchen, bathroom, or garden,” he shared. This quick-action approach has increased the intensity of his work, offering a stark contrast to the more measured pace of his past projects.
Preparing for his new role, Knight immersed himself in the original “Crashers” series to understand its essence and connect with its legacy. “I binge-watched the old episodes to see what I was getting into. It’s a great show, and I wanted to honour that as I stepped into this position,” he said. However, he emphasised that while the revival retains some of its predecessors’ charms, this version is decidedly modernised, aiming to capture a fresh perspective.
The rigorous shooting schedule has tested Knight’s adaptability. He noted the tangible pressure of completing renovations within three days, often facing unexpected hurdles tied to weather or logistics. “Once, we found ourselves knee-deep in mud when heavy rain left our machinery stranded,” he recalled. “It was stressful, but I thrive on that environment; I prefer to be actively involved.”
Aside from the chaos, Knight finds his drive in the joyful reactions of homeowners witnessing the completion of their revamped spaces. “Each time we unveil a transformation, it’s like changing someone’s life,” Knight observed. “I’ve seen couples cry with joy on each of the six episodes I’ve filmed so far.” He believes that the emotional resonates even more profoundly than in “Farmhouse Fixer,” as the issues addressed in “Crashers” are relatable to many families.
The sentiment echoes his concert experiences with NKOTB. “Even when the touring can feel exhausting, stepping on stage and witnessing the happiness we bring makes it all worthwhile,” he told PEOPLE. This profound sense of achievement fuels his passion for both music and renovation, and he is grateful for the journey that has unfolded.
Knight’s commitments often draw him away from home, posing challenges in his personal life. The filming locations for “Crashers” stretch beyond familiar grounding, requiring Knight to navigate periods away from his husband, Harley Rodriguez. However, the couple maintains a close connection through frequent calls throughout the day. “We’ve set up Ring cameras at home, so I can see our pets and feel that tether to home,” he shared. “Knowing that piece of stability is vital.”
As Knight balances his commitment to television renovation and touring with NKOTB’s performances, he reflects on a surprising second act in his life. At 57, he had not anticipated being deeply engaged in home renovation while still performing for dedicated fans. “Music is still incredibly important to me, but right now, renovation holds a special place in my heart,” he revealed.
“Crashers” is set to premiere on Monday, June 8, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on HGTV, with episodes streaming the following day on HBO Max. Fans of Knight and home transformation enthusiasts alike can look forward to a fresh, emotional journey that encapsulates personal connections and the power of design to uplift lives.