David and Jason Benham issued a statement early Thursday in response to HGTV’s decision to cancel their upcoming show, “Flip It Forward,” after reports came to light of the brothers’ past anti-LGBT ministry and political efforts.
Also read: HGTV Cancels Pilot From Anti-Gay Hosts Following Fan Backlash
“We were saddened to hear HGTV’s decision,” the brothers wrote. “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.”
“If our faith costs us a television show then so be it,” they added.
HGTV announced the show in April, which would have focused a new deserving family each week transforming a fixer-upper into a dream house with the help of the Benhams. The network said on Wednesday it would not be moving forward with the project.
Also read: Paula Deen Racism Scandal: Restaurant at Center of Controversy Closes Down
The Benhams said that criticism that they hated gays and lesbians was false or misconstrued.
“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,” they wrote.
David Benham tweeted Thursday that despite the show’s cancellation, the twins will keep their commitment to six families who had been selected to participate.
They also issued the statement below:
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.
Over the last decade, we’ve sold thousands of homes with the guiding principle of producing value and breathing life into each family that has crossed our path, and we do not, nor will we ever discriminate against people who do not share our views.
We were saddened to hear HGTV’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. If our faith costs us a television show then so be it.
– David & Jason Benham
TV show or not – we are keeping to our commitment to help these six families! #Runningthroughfirstbase pic.twitter.com/AaWBfkvwsc
— David Benham (@DavidDBenham) May 8, 2014