Imagine your seven-year-old stealing the spotlight on a national TV set—that’s exactly what happened when Joanna and Chip Gaines’ youngest son, Crew, made an unforgettable appearance in Los Angeles. But here’s where it gets heartwarming: while the HGTV power couple was busy making deals on Shark Tank, their little one was the real star behind the scenes, running around with pure joy and even holding his mom’s hand as she prepped for her big moment. It’s a reminder that even in the glitz of Hollywood, family remains at the heart of it all.
Joanna and Chip, married since 2003, are parents to five children, all raised in the charming town of Waco, Texas. Their rise to fame began with Fixer Upper, a show that not only transformed homes but also gave fans a peek into their tight-knit family life. Social media has become their canvas, where they share snippets of their everyday adventures, from home renovations to parenting milestones. And this is the part most people miss: their recent Shark Tank appearance wasn’t just about business—it was a family affair, with Crew tagging along and turning the backstage area into his personal playground.
During their time on the show, Joanna and Chip invested in several promising businesses, including a notable partnership with Barbara Corcoran for Repaint Studios. But beyond the deals, it was their dynamic as a couple and their ability to balance work and family that truly stood out. ‘Happy Shark Tank, Jo,’ Chip cheered, to which Joanna replied, ‘Let’s go make some deals!’—a moment that perfectly captures their teamwork both on and off camera.
Here’s where it gets emotional: just weeks before their Shark Tank debut, Joanna and Chip bid farewell to their oldest daughter, Ella, as she left for college. In a candid interview on the Today Show, Joanna shared how she stepped back to let Ella design her dorm room, a testament to their trust in her creativity. ‘She’s very into design and has her own unique style,’ Joanna explained. But letting go wasn’t easy. ‘It’s still raw,’ she admitted, noting that Ella’s departure felt different than when their oldest son, Drake, left home. ‘It’s my girl, and she went further away,’ Joanna reflected, revealing the unique challenges of parenting through transitions.
Speaking of transitions, Joanna also gave a shoutout to Chip, who was holding down the fort back in Texas. ‘Chip is doing good,’ she shared, adding that he’d sent her a sweet photo of the kids that morning. Together, they’re navigating the ups and downs of raising Drake (a college junior), Duke (17), Emmie (15), and, of course, Crew (7), each stage bringing its own set of joys and challenges.
But here’s the controversial question: As public figures, Joanna and Chip often share their family life with the world—but where do we draw the line between inspiration and oversharing? Is it fair to involve young children like Crew in the spotlight, or should some moments remain private? Let’s discuss in the comments—I’m curious to hear your thoughts!
