‘Ugliest House in America’ Host Retta on Exploring Atrocious Abodes Across the U.S.

Meaghan Darwish January 3, 2022

Retta in Ugliest House in America — HGTV

HGTV may be known for its gorgeous remodeling shows, but Ugliest House in America is on a search to find the most atrocious abodes to single out one winner for a once-in-a-lifetime renovation.

Hosted by Retta (Parks and Recreation, Good Girls), the show follows the comedian and actress to 12 different homes across various regions in the United States as they’re graded on a scale of least to most ugly. One lucky home will be crowned the “ugliest house in America” by HGTV who will give the winning family a $150,000 renovation overseen by Alison Victoria.

As the event series prepares to kick off, running weeknights between Monday, January 3 and Friday, January 7, Retta spoke to TV Insider about what viewers can expect from the series, her own love for home rennos, and much more.

(Credit: Danielle Levitt/NBC)

How did you first become involved with this new series?

Retta: I got a call. They wanted to try this new show, and asked would I be interested, and having just gone through a renovation of my home, I’ve been very into [home improvement.] I love a before and after. Whether it’s the makeover of a face, a closet, or a home, I thoroughly enjoy them. So, the fact that [I’d get to see] particularly ugly homes become a new and refreshed home was very exciting.

Your reactions are priceless to the homes you’re visiting. Were you given any warning or photos before stepping into the “ugly” homes?

No, they hid me from it. I asked not to see any of them. So oftentimes I was being blindfolded so that they could walk me into the house and it could be a surprise for the very first time. And for the most part, they were all shocking in their own way. It was surprising to find out that some people bought the houses without telling their spouses. I think people might have different opinions. But there was something in each where you’re like, “whoa.”

'Good Girls' Star Retta Sets Next Gig With HGTV's 'Ugliest House in America'

What was it like traveling and what did you learn from the process of this show? Will you take any tips home with you?

Alison had her vision and it was interesting to see where she chose to get things. Obviously, the region will dictate what you can get in the area, and then there’s putting it together and making it work. So she would design something and then when you see it all together and you’re like, “oh, okay. I see.” So, it’s interesting. Once you see something in a space, you can finally make a decision.

I’d like to think I have my own personal style. I have these lamps in my home [that others initially doubted] and now I get nothing but compliments. Every time somebody visits, they’re like, “oh my God. Those are so cool.” And I’m like, “I told you guys, nobody would listen to me.”