“Fixer Upper” stars Chip and Joanna Gaines recently became the subject of intense criticism over the Christian couple’s claim that they put family first.
Earlier this year, Chip and Joanna announced that they were expecting their fifth child, and that they’d be stepping away from their wildly popular HGTV show to have more time together as a family. Though many fans are sad to see the show end, few would argue with the family’s reasoning.
But still, some critics have called the couple’s values into question.
In an op-ed published by USA Today over the weekend, journalist Daryl Austin claims that the Gaineses “did not get where they are by putting their family first.” According to Austin, it’s impossible to be as successful as Chip and Joanna while also having a thriving family life.
Austin begins by noting that he loves the couple and their show, but then proceeds to call their alleged bluff:
“There is much to be admired about them, including their commitments to their faith, marriage, family and community,” he writes. “There’s an important distinction, however, that I think their millions of fans and would-be imitators need to remember: Chip and Joanna Gaines did not get where they are now by putting their family first.”
“No matter how rich and famous, we are all limited by the same 24 hours in a day,” he continued. “You cannot do all they’ve done (or even a fraction of it) and still have any real time left over for family. Frankly, I wonder where they even find the time to brush their teeth, let alone spend quality, one-on-one time with each child daily.”
As always, Chip Gaines had the perfect response:
I dont know daryl, & he clearly doesnt know me. But for the record: If there is ever a need w/ my family (1st), I'll shut this circus down so fast it will make your head spin. BUT jo & I believe, w/ God anything is possible. Including having an amazing family AND career you love. https://t.co/3DbWIIKMnh
— Chip Gaines (@chipgaines) April 28, 2018
“I dont know daryl, & he clearly doesnt know me,” Chip wrote in a tweet. “But for the record: If there is ever a need w/ my family (1st), I’ll shut this circus down so fast it will make your head spin.”
While it certainly is rare for a married couple to maintain demanding careers while pouring into a larger-than-average family, Gaines reminded Austin and other critics that they don’t do it by relying on their own strength.
Chip added that he and his wife “believe, w/ God anything is possible. Including having an amazing family AND career you love.”
The Gaineses have been open with fans about their ongoing efforts to balance faith, family and career. Read more about the defining moment that prompted Chip and Joanna’s decision to step away from their show HERE.
(H/T: Christian Headlines)