Property Brothers’ New Show “Under Pressure” Sparks Fan Backlash: Too Much of a Good Thing?
The dynamic duo of Drew and Jonathan Scott, beloved by many for their home renovation expertise, have returned to HGTV with a brand-new series, “Under Pressure.” However, the show’s debut has been met with a wave of fan criticism, with many viewers feeling the latest offering is simply a rehash of familiar territory.
The 14-part series aims to take audiences behind the scenes of the often-stressful home-buying journey. The brothers guide clients through the labyrinthine process, from navigating fiercely competitive markets and confronting sticker shock to making those all-important, sometimes difficult, compromises. Ahead of the premiere, Drew Scott expressed excitement about the show’s “docu-style” and “behind-the-scenes” approach, promising viewers an unfiltered look at the real challenges involved. “We don’t turn the camera off,” he told People, “so you get to see a lot of the stuff that normally would happen after we stopped rolling.”
Despite this promise of authenticity, the reception from long-time HGTV fans has been decidedly lukewarm. Many took to online forums, particularly Reddit, to voice their frustration, arguing that the network is relying too heavily on the Scott brothers, offering essentially the same content under different guises.
A Chorus of “Same Old, Same Old”
The most common complaint centres on the perceived lack of originality across the Property Brothers’ extensive portfolio. One viewer articulated the sentiment shared by many: “Not sure why they keep getting shows that are all the same. I liked when they competed against each other for a reno but everything else they do is the same. And why them all the time?”
This feeling of déjà vu is widespread. Another fan pointed out, “All of their shows are just a slightly different version of each other with different names (except IOU) and it’s annoying! Stick with one premise, make it really good and stop taking over the network with the same show!”
The criticism extends to the perceived scripting of the shows. “The Property Brothers just keep doing the same shows over and over and changing the name,” echoed another viewer. “They seem to be getting even more scripted with each one. I love them, but Celebrity IOU is the only one of their shows that I find interesting anymore. I wish they would bring back Brother Versus Brother.”
Concerns Over Network Diversity
Adding to the fan discontent is the context of recent HGTV programming decisions. Last year, the network made the controversial move of cancelling several popular shows, including “Bargain Block,” “Izzy Does It,” and “Married to Real Estate.” While the Scott brothers’ shows were not among those axed, some viewers feel this has led to a noticeable lack of variety on the network.
“My issue is that several good shows with good people were cancelled and there is no variety left,” one disgruntled fan stated. “I used to love the bros but I’ve grown very tired of them and feel like HGTV is trying to force them on the viewers.” This sentiment suggests a feeling that HGTV is prioritizing established, albeit repetitive, franchises over potentially fresh and diverse programming.
A Glimmer of Support: Echoes of the Past
However, not all viewers are critical of “Under Pressure.” A segment of the audience expressed appreciation for the show’s return to the roots of the Property Brothers’ original format. One viewer, actively watching the first episode, shared their positive experience: “I’m watching the first episode of the new show now and I’m loving the fact it’s extremely close to the type of show they started on the network which is what their fans usually actually want to watch. It’s a good mix of the OG Property Bros and Buying and Selling.”
This perspective suggests that while some viewers are fatigued by the repeated formula, others genuinely enjoy the familiar structure and the Scotts’ on-screen chemistry. For this group, “Under Pressure” offers a comforting return to the style that first endeared them to the Property Brothers. “Some of us actually like them and their shows,” simply stated another supporter.
A Long History on HGTV
The Scott brothers first made their mark on HGTV in 2011 with the premiere of “Property Brothers.” This flagship series, which ran for 13 seasons, saw the twins assist homebuyers in finding and renovating fixer-uppers into their dream homes, all while adhering to a strict budget.
Since then, their presence on the network has been prolific. They have co-hosted a multitude of spin-offs, each exploring different facets of home renovation and design. These have included:
- Property Brothers: At Home (2014)
- Property Brothers: At Home on the Ranch (2015)
- Property Brothers at Home: Drew’s Honeymoon House (2017)
- Property Brothers: Forever Home (2019)
The continued output of shows, culminating in “Under Pressure,” highlights their enduring popularity with a core demographic, even as it alienates others seeking more novelty from HGTV. The debate among fans underscores the challenge for networks in balancing established successes with the desire for fresh, diverse content.
