Melissa Joan Hart has enlisted the help of her former co-star Joey Lawrence in the second episode of HGTV’s competition series, “Totally ‘90s House.” In a candid FaceTime exchange shared exclusively with PEOPLE, Hart, recognising her own need for support, reached out to Lawrence to see if he would be willing to step in for her when commitments forced her to step away from the show.
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The two actors, who were both part of the popular sitcom “Melissa & Joey,” have shared a lasting friendship over the years. During their humorous interaction, Lawrence, also 50, greeted Hart with playful banter, joking about her lack of communication on significant occasions. “What? Wait a minute, you’re not going to just call me out of the blue when you need help. You didn’t call and check in on my birthday, nothing,” he remarked during their video call.
Hart, who is competing on Team Curtains alongside a cast that includes Lawrence’s younger brother, Matthew, and Keshia Knight Pulliam from “The Cosby Show,” explained her predicament. “I need a little help,” she explained. As a lighthearted discussion unfolded, it was clear both stars were comfortable with each other, with Hart jokingly suggesting that turning 50 is just another way to feel youthful.
The concept of “Totally ‘90s House” revolves around nostalgic figures from that era participating in home renovation challenges, modernising properties while maintaining a sense of charm reminiscent of the past. Lawrence contributed to the conversation with a candid admission, quipping, “Yeah, sounds like a nightmare,” to which Hart swiftly rebutted, explaining her need for him to fill in as she had to leave unexpectedly.
Joey’s initial hesitation turned into curiosity when Hart explained the timeline, indicating that she required his help the very next day. “Tomorrow?!” he exclaimed upon hearing the urgency of the task at hand. In a playful exchange, he sought clarification on what he would gain from stepping in, to which Hart responded, “You get so much love, you get my respect.”
After a brief consideration, Lawrence agreed to the request, remarking playfully, “I like it when people owe me.” This banter showcases the friendly rapport the two have built over the years and sets a light-hearted tone for the forthcoming episode.
In a conversation with PEOPLE ahead of the series premier, Hart admitted that her sudden absence was due to another project, acknowledging her responsibility in the situation. Lawrence, graciously stepping into the fray, shared his enthusiasm for the task. He expressed a passion for interior design, stating, “I love interior design, I love it so much. I’m super detail-oriented.” He viewed the opportunity as a chance to demonstrate his skills while helping his brother and engaging with a project that might not be on his radar otherwise.
“Totally ‘90s House” features a total of six episodes and is hosted by Jaleel White. The team-based competition pits Team Curtains against Team Mauve, which includes stars such as Brian Austin Green, Beverley Mitchell, and Jodie Sweetin. Each team’s efforts focus on rejuvenating homes that are stuck in a past decade while aiming to achieve modern designs fused with nostalgic elements. The stakes are considerable, with the winning team set to receive not only bragging rights but also a $25,000 charitable donation.
Audiences can tune in to “Totally ‘90s House” every Wednesday at 9 p.m. ET on HGTV, a show that serves to stir fond memories while inviting nostalgia into the realm of home renovation. With the camaraderie of its cast and the integration of ‘90s culture, the series promises to connect with fans both young and old, celebrating a distinctive moment in television history.