Yesterday, Hallmark Channel announced that host Cristina Ferrare would be replaced as co-host by regular contributor Debbie Matenopoulos. The cable channel didn’t specify when the change would take place.
Today, co-host Mark Steines made a quick announcement that Ferrare had left the show and that Matenopoulos would be replacing her, effective immediately. Ferrare hadn’t been on the show for two weeks and didn’t return for a send-off.
Fans of the show have been concerned if Ferrare was sick and have been wondering if the decision to leave was her decision. On her Facebook page, Ferrare confirmed that she is not sick and essentially says that she was fired. She wrote:
Okay here goes, I feel it’s important to finally step up to the plate and let you know what is happening.
First may I say that my family and I have been so thankful and appreciative for all the love, support, prayers, and good wishes you have been sending me on a daily basis for the past three weeks. It pained me so that I was unable to let you know what was going on out of respect for everyone on Home and Family and the Network. I was asked to wait and I have but now I feel I should out of respect for YOU let you know.
It’s really very simple, Home and Family will have a season 5 which I am so happy for and the Network decided that they want a new co-host and that will be Debbie. She will do a great job!
You can still reach me here on facebook and we shall continue honoring love of family and friends. I truly LOVE you all. You have been my rainbow!
What do you think? Are you sorry that Ferrare is no longer a co-host on Home & Family? Will you continue to watch? Should the show be cancelled or, is Ferrare’s replacement a good idea?
Why? Why? Why? I love the show BECAUSE of the diversity of age, race, sexuality, marital status, parental status, eat. It was a show for everyone. I am a walking/talking billboard for the show. The diy’s, gardening, fashion, beauty, ect. There is something for everyone. Christina was like the mother of the show. I like Debbie to do the interviews but not to host. She completely interrupted Orly during her mermaid diy. Hallmark stay true to who you are, and don’t follow what other channels are doing.
I’m really disappointed in how the show informed us (their audience) that Cristina was on a much needed vacation then gave us the truth that she was being replaced on the show by Debbie. The show won’t be the same without Cristina.
I watched the show because of Cristina. No longer will I watch this show.
I really dislike the way this was handled. First we are told she was on vacation and then nothing. I watched most days but will not continue to watch. It just isn’t the same.
I too am stunned that Cristina was fired & am greatly saddened! Cristina is very much the matriarch figure for the family; Debbie is too young to step into that place. I’ve also noticed that other favorites of mine are either on a lot less or not at all like Laura Nativo for one. Notice the long absences of Sophie Ulliano & both Matts. Sad turn of events. Will still love the movies & a few other shows. I certainly will not be enthusiastic in recommending Home & Family show any more. So sad & wish all of those that… Read more »
What a shock; I really think it was handled terribly. The show will not be the same without Christine and I will no longer be watching.
Hallmark took off the best person on Home and Family, as Cristina made that show what it was…..because she was charismatic and drew people to her. She made things sparkle by her positive and dynamic personality. I am sure the show will suffer because of her disappearance by Hallmark firing her. I tuned in a few times and it just fell flat to me, and after not seeing her there day after day, I decided to see what may being going on. I don’t really like the new PYT (pretty young thing). Not much personality there, no disrespect, just calling… Read more »
I am very upset over this. They should of removed Mark instead. I only hope Cristina and her daughter can get their own show because they would be a better a show to watch. Cristina you are great and don’t ever forget it. Debbie will never replace you.
I’m stunned by the way the hallmark home and family treated Cristina and how they handled this was inexcusable. I won’t be watching anymore. Debbie is not a good replacement she’s too into herself shows off too much and acts like no one else has ever had a baby. It was a great show but I’m done with this. I’ll miss seeing most of the others on the show.
With Cristina, it was like every day was Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter. It was warm family feeling that got me through 3 visits to IC, 5 surgeries, and multiple medical leaves. Her presence was a warm hug at a very difficult time in my life. I’m heartbroken over her dismissal.
Cancel show won’t watch
I will no longer watch the show. I disagree with the way they replaced Cristina. SHAME on them for trying to fool the viewers. I for one bought into the “Cristina is taking some time off and Debbie will be sitting in for her” spiel. Why not just be forthright and confess the changes in program. They don’t seem to hold the viewers in high esteem. Nope. No longer watching this show.
Not a good decision Hallmark Channel. You are now catering to the millenials who a big percent are working during your H&F show, while ignoring the Boomers who are a large group of viewers. I will see how the show goes, but haven’t been too impressed with the last few shows. Favorites were Cristina, Matt, & Kim. Matt & Kim aren’t on as much now either.
I’m not happy with Debbie. She’s too emotional and I feel she is over the top sometimes. I have never liked her on any show. I will continue to watch, but, am unhappy with the choice. Wish Christina was back!
I think it sucks that they replaced Cristina. She is the only reason I watched the show. I cancelled it on my DVR. I am done!!! Shame on Hallmark!!!