Jason Hanna and Joe Riggs, the gay couple featured prominently on Chip and Joanna Gaines' television show, "Back to the Frontier," have spoken up in response to the hate directed at the Magnolia Network stars for including them in their new reality series. Taking to social media, Hanna addressed the critics, elucidating the significance of viewers witnessing a family like theirs on their TV screens.
Reposting a news article with the headline, "Conservative Christians fury over reality show's inclusion of gay couple," Hanna penned a heartfelt message on his Instagram Stories on Monday, July 14th. "Representation holds immense weight—particularly for those still mustering the courage to embrace their authenticity. When families like ours are visible, it paves the way for others to feel secure, cherished, and affirmed," he wrote. He further emphasized, "Visibility transcends mere sight; it ensures that no one feels isolated."
Hanna's post followed Chip's expression of support for the couple, shared on Sunday, July 13th, on his social media platform. "Converse, inquire, lend an ear... perhaps even gain insight. Too much to expect from contemporary American Christian culture. Judge first, comprehend later—if ever," Chip lamented. "It's a somber Sunday when 'non-believers' encounter hate and vitriol for the first time from modern American Christians."
Chip's message seemed to be a pointed response to Franklin Graham, the son of Evangelical preacher Billy Graham, who wrote on social media that it was "disheartening" to learn that the Magnolia Network show featured Hanna, Riggs, and their 10-year-old twin sons, Ethan and Lucas. "I hope this isn't true, but I read today that Chip and Joanna Gaines are featuring a gay couple in their new series," Franklin posted on July 12th. "If it is true, it is deeply disappointing... God cherishes us, and His blueprint for marriage is between one man and one woman. Promoting what God deems as sin is sinful in itself."
Riggs, too, expressed his gratitude for Chip's message on his Instagram account, sharing PEOPLE's coverage of the incident. Alongside the article, Riggs captioned, "Thank you @chipgaines and @joannagaines for leading with love, openness, and empathy," accompanied by a heart emoji.
Premiering on Thursday, July 10th, "Back to the Frontier" is a reality series that takes three families back in time to replicate the lifestyle of 19th-century Western pioneers. Each family must navigate the intricacies of living off the land without modern conveniences.
Prior to the show's debut, Hanna spoke with PEOPLE about the significance of their inclusion. "It's crucial for us as a two-dad family," he emphasized. "I believe it places added responsibility on us to ensure we're just like any other family." "We were incredibly proud and grateful for the chance to depict our family as it is—just another family among many."
