This year has been eventful for Bargain Block stars Keith Bynum and Evan Thomas. The HGTV network faced significant changes, leading to the cancellation of many beloved shows, including Bargain Block, which was initially renewed for Season 5 but later pulled. Despite this setback, the couple remains active in the flipping-and-renovation industry, potentially paving the way for new opportunities that align with their vision.

The cancellation of Bargain Block sparked considerable fan outrage. With a loyal following and a solid concept, Bynum and Thomas are well-positioned to find success on another network or digital platform. As the television landscape evolves, particularly at HGTV, many personalities are adapting to the rapidly changing trends. Although they may not fit HGTV’s current direction, their track record suggests that their careers are far from over.

HGTV’s Flip Flopping on ‘Bargain Block’ Was Not a Reflection Of the Series, But of the Network’s Stability

Returning to the origins of this drama, right before summer began, HGTV made headlines by canceling several popular shows, including Bargain Block, Married to Real Estate, Farmhouse Fixer, and Izzy Does It. This decision shocked viewers, as even long-standing personalities were affected. Among those canceled were Christina Haack‘s Christina on the Coast and Tarek El Moussa‘s The Flipping El Moussas. While the latter still have representation on the network with The Flip Off, other stars found themselves without a platform.

Upon hearing the news, Bynum expressed his disappointment on social media, stating that while Bargain Block was initially approved for another season, it was ultimately rescinded months later. “Our entire business and lives have been put through the wringer at the hands of a giant corporation, yet we persist lol,” he shared on Instagram. “Though you may not be seeing us for much longer on HGTV, we’re excited that we’ve built such an amazing base of followers, and we’re very excited about the future.”

As fans voiced their dissatisfaction with this decision, HGTV reassured viewers that new content would be forthcoming. However, it would no longer feature the renovation programs audiences had come to expect. The focus shifted away from flipping to hoarding. Some new titles announced by HGTV emphasized bargain-hunting properties and showcased “messy” concepts that might resonate with viewers facing current housing challenges. This shift in focus indicated that Bargain Block no longer fit within their new mission. Bynum and Thomas had worked diligently over five years to transform neglected properties into stunning homes. The cancellation reflected not on the series itself but rather on the instability faced by the network. Ultimately, it is important to remember that it is called the entertainment business for a reason.

‘Bargain Block’ Fans Are Hungry For More

Loyal fans had a chance to say farewell to Bargain Block as its final episodes aired this fall. “It’s sometimes surreal to look back on that time, everything we’ve been through, everything we’ve accomplished, everything that has changed in our lives and in our business, with a lot of it captured for television,” Thomas reflected in an Instagram post. “Whether it was securing properties, securing funding, designing floor plans, selecting finishes, checking on job sites, performing various construction tasks on houses ourselves, etc., all while filming most days of the week, we lived and breathed Bargain Block. And now, that chapter has ended.” Although it may not have been the farewell they hoped for, they had an opportunity that many others did not.

The airing of these final episodes allowed fans to rally behind the couple, demonstrating their support and proving there is a demand for their talents in another media venue. The flood of comments expressing support for future projects and how much they will miss the series clearly indicates this demand. Just like fans feel connected to other couples such as Chip and Joanna Gaines and Erin and Ben Napier, Bynum and Thomas fostered a similar bond with their audience. They were innovative creators who happened to be a same-sex couple; this representation was bold and necessary within the genre.

Renovation couples have been central to HGTV’s success for over a decade. The network attempted to replicate the success of shows like Fixer Upper and Flip or Flop, introducing various duos across the country. This strategy worked until it became stale and unsustainable given current market conditions. Nevertheless, these shows allowed personalities to develop their own brands. Bargain Block was more than just a show; Keith Bynum and Evan Thomas became a recognized brand. They can easily leverage their success in new ways moving forward. If one reads between the lines, there may be exciting opportunities ahead.

Evan Thomas and Keith Bynum Tease More In Store Post-HGTV

The couple has maintained an optimistic outlook, suggesting that their departure from HGTV marks not an end but rather a new beginning. As they enjoy travel and family time together, they have hinted at upcoming projects. Accompanying a series of photos from their travels, Bynum wrote: “Been a fun week! 9 states visited, got to see my dad, my sister, my niece, Texas, Vegas, LIZ, and of course Evian. Excited to show y’all some of the projects!” Meanwhile, Thomas’ post hinted more directly: “Pride weekend in Palm Springs went a bit longer than expected, but who’s complaining? Maybe some Cali projects are in order because you fun Palm Springs.” This raises questions about potential projects in sunny California that viewers might soon learn about.

No matter if they are referring to a new television project or expanding their personal business across the country, they exhibit resilience and forward momentum. There is no sign of defeatism here. Whatever soft launch is in store for them represents an opportunity for adventure following their cancellation. Until they unveil their next steps, anticipation builds among fans.

Bargain Block is available for streaming on HBO Max.