The Reformed Advisor

UPDATE: Benham Brothers Speak Out About Unfair Canceling of HGTV Show

Posted on May 14, 2014 in Marriage, Religious Freedom by

Benham BrothersIn the wake of a home flipping show being cancelled on HGTV for its hosts having a pro-traditional marriage view, the Benham brothers have spoken about the incident.

In case you missed the absurd spectacle created by HGTV and the liberal group “rightwingwatch.org,” you can read my article about it here.

In today’s politically un-correct world where people and groups call for tolerance and diversity while shutting out people with diverse viewpoints, it’s hard to find the logic in much of what takes place. No doubt the Benham brothers were left scratching their heads when they were informed by HGTV that their anticipated show would be cancelled before a single episode aired. The reason, simply because the Benhams are Christians with a pro-traditional marriage view.

Now, here is the hard part to understand. I have no doubt that HGTV knew before they entered into contract with the Benhams that the brothers were Christians. At some point there was a discussions about their faith and how integral it is to their daily lives. Perhaps HGTV even gave some guidelines for speaking about their faith on air. One thing is for sure, HGTV knew the Benhams were committed Christians. Knowing that it is hard to imagine that HGTV didn’t know the Benhams hold to a traditional marriage viewpoint. So why did HGTV agree to the show in the first place if their traditional marriage view is so awful? Why give them a contract at all if HGTV is so opposed to this point of view?

The simple answer: fear and money.

HGTV took a calculated risk. They agreed to the show with the understanding that this precise controversy might arise; and they had a plan to address it. I doubt they thought a dustup would happen before the Benham brothers’ show ever aired, but they were prepared nonetheless. HGTV promptly killed the show, issued a feel-good PR statement and cut their losses. Yes they probably lost some money but it was a calculated risk they were willing to make and now they will move on as if it never happened. After all, if the show was a huge success, a la Duck Dynasty, they were willing to endure some bad PR for a couple weeks.

HGTV was far more afraid of the 3% homosexual population in America that might possibly boycott their network. The homosexual mafia bent a few thumbs and HGTV caved to their scare tactics. Apparently HGTV doesn’t remember the attempted boycotting of Chick-Fil-A and Duck Dynasty that both failed spectacularly. Why did they fail? Because America, for the most part, recognizes the oppressive actions of homosexual activists that is harming true tolerance and diversity in our country. Homosexuals are now seeking not just tolerance for their lifestyle but across the board acceptance and celebration. And anyone that refuses to comply will be silenced: Brendan Eich, Benham brothers.

But rather than running scared for their careers and issuing a “heartfelt” apology for their beliefs, the Benham brothers stood firm. Jason and David Benham are not the Robertsons, they are not making millions from merchandising and other venues associated with their show. Unlike the Robertsons, they have everything to lose. But their convictions are not merely consumer products to be returned if unsatisfactory, they are deeply held convictions and the Benhams have no intention of apologizing.

But they did respond in a way that took many people by surprise. They issued a statement saying they feel sorry for HGTV believing the network was bullied into making the decision to kill their show. They said:

 “We love all people. I love homosexuals. I love Islam, Muslims, and my brother and I would never discriminate. Never have we — never would we…Never have I ever spoken against homosexuals, as individuals, and gone against them. I speak about an agenda. And that’s really what the point of this is — is that there is an agenda that is seeking to silence the voices of men and women of faith…We actually felt really bad for HG that they were pushed into this position. They simply said that we need to part ways…Our heart breaks for HGTV … that the same thing that happens all the time when one view is able to be put out there, but then if you represent what we believe would be the pro-family view, you’re not allowed to have that anymore.”

What is wrong with these guys? They say they’re Christians, hold Christian beliefs, and then act like Christians at a time when it would be least likely and toughest. I think I like these guys.

But the Benhams make a great point. There is indeed an agenda to silence man and women of faith. It seems you aren’t allowed to have a pro-traditional marriage/family viewpoint in society anymore. Anyone that does becomes the newest target for this tiny group of people that is seeking to silence such dissent. While this temporary victory will be celebrated by “Ringwingwatch.org” and other homosexual activists it is only showing America the true colors of the homosexual movement.

This movement is not about equality or tolerance. This movement is about total conformation to and specific ideology. Diversity and tolerance look at the Benhams and say, “I don’t agree with your positions, but I respect your right to adhere to your beliefs.” The homosexual agenda however is out for destruction of anyone that does not adhere to their belief that homosexuality and everything that comes with it should be celebrated. America is getting tired of the gay mafia stamping out the free speech and tolerance we believe is essential to liberty and freedom. We are increasingly inspired by the strength of character and conviction of people like the Benhams and their refusing to bow the knee to this intolerant and bigoted movement.

I thank the Benhams, not just for their convictions and for standing firm, but for their response. They showed, at a time when I am sure they were disappointed and could have lashed out, they showed a truly Godly response that I believe gives glory to Christ. As a Christian, I am grateful to them for that.

Below is a couple of videos of the Benhams. If the videos don’t appear automatically, please refresh your browser.

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