Former ‘Fixer Upper’ Star Reveals He Was Never Paid as an Actor on the Show
A former star of the popular home renovation series Fixer Upper has opened up about the financial realities of working on the show, revealing that he was never compensated as an actor.
Clint Harp, a carpenter who appeared frequently on the HGTV series alongside hosts Chip and Joanna Gaines, shared his experience with his wife, Kelly Harp, during a recent episode of their podcast On Couch. The series, which aired from 2013 to 2018, focused on renovating homes in Waco, Texas, and became a cultural phenomenon.
“I was a side character, B character, whatever, in the show, but there were still requirements and things I had to do,” Clint recalled. He explained that many people do not realize the transient nature of television production crews, who often work on multiple shows across the country.
Clint stated that he was “never paid as an actor on Fixer Upper,” but was instead “paid one season as a contractor.” Kelly noted that the show brought significant exposure to Waco and their business, Harp Design Co.
The couple also discussed the challenges of maintaining privacy after gaining fame. Clint recalled being recognized during a family beach vacation despite wearing a disguise. “One of the things that you quickly learn is that the network, let’s just say, they’re not concerned about your marriage. They’re not out to get you. They’re just not out to – that’s not what they’re thinking,” he said. Kelly added, “They’re just concerned about making a television show.”
After Fixer Upper ended, Clint and Kelly starred in the one-season show Wood Work (2017–2018). Chip and Joanna later launched the Magnolia Network, where Clint reunited with them for Renovation Road, which premiered in 2021. The show has not aired new episodes since 2024 but has not been formally canceled.
Clint described the television industry as competitive, with many people “fighting for their lives and their careers, trying to make something good that will make money for the people that are in charge.” Both Clint and Kelly agreed that their experience on Renovation Road was “better” than previous projects, allowing them to compartmentalize their work and personal lives more effectively.