Chip and Joanna Gaines’ latest series, “Back to the Frontier,” premiered on 10 July on Max and their Magnolia Network. The eight-episode show follows three families attempting to live as 1880s homesteaders and includes Jason Hanna and Joe Riggs, a married same-sex couple raising 10-year-old twin boys—marking the first prominent LGBTQ representation in a Gaines-produced program. The casting stirred opposition from parts of the evangelical community. Franklin Graham, head of Samaritan’s Purse, called the decision “very disappointing,” arguing that it violates what he described as God’s design for marriage. Ed Vitagliano of the American Family Association said the series promotes an “unbiblical view of human sexuality, marriage and family.” Chip Gaines responded on X, urging critics to “talk, ask questions, listen… maybe even learn” and quoting 1 Peter 3:15 to emphasise gentleness and respect. He rejected suggestions that the backlash could damage the Magnolia brand, writing that “God’s will be done” and encouraging followers to “love one another.” Hanna and Riggs thanked the Gaineses for “leading with love,” saying visibility helps other families feel “safe, loved and validated.” Max and Magnolia have not issued additional statements, and new episodes of the frontier-living experiment continue to roll out weekly.