He admits he nonetheless thinks of himself as a “little boy.” Lovable goofball and self-described “Peter Pan” sort Chip Gaines is thought for his fearless pratfalls, immature jokes and giddy “demo day” hijinks — all whereas spouse Joanna rolls her eyes. However the actuality star is now going through a milestone birthday.
“While you’ve all the time evaluated your self by way of a childlike lens, how does that coexist with a 50-year-old actuality?” Chip, who hits the half-century mark on November 14, instructed Drew Barrymore on her speak present not too long ago. “I really feel conflicted.” It’s time to develop up.
“He’s often not one to care a lot about these sorts of issues, however turning 50 has actually given Chip pause,” says a supply, noting that Chip has been doing laborious handbook labor for many of his life, “and that catches up with you. However he’s additionally so grateful for every little thing that work has introduced him.”
Over 21 years of marriage, he and Joanna haven’t solely constructed a $50 million Magnolia empire — from a T.V. community to their thriving Waco, Texas, companies — however are additionally elevating 5 blissful, wholesome youngsters.
“I’m torn within the sense that … from a household standpoint, I’ve by no means been happier. However then my knees ache within the morning,” Chip admitted on the At the moment present in October. “Perhaps I’m simply getting began.”
Give attention to the Future
He’s starting a brand new chapter for certain. He and Joanna, 46, have branched out from their house reno background to churn out a number of new actuality reveals (see sidebar). The most recent is foolish competitors present Human vs. Hamster, which Chip says he dreamed up after seeing Jason Kelce rip off his shirt on the AFC Championship this 12 months and thought, “I want I used to be furrier.”
That’s so much for a pair who nonetheless don’t personal a T.V.
“Once they left Fixer Higher, everybody thought it was so they may decelerate,” notes the supply. However for Chip, who’s referred to as himself a “serial entrepreneur,” it’s extra about management.
“He was exhausted from all the time having to be humorous on cue,” provides the supply. “Now he can focus extra on their companies and behind-the-scenes work. Clearly he’s obtained this goofy persona in actual life in addition to onscreen, however don’t let that idiot you — he wouldn’t have gotten this far if he didn’t know what he was doing.”
And whereas Chip is coming to phrases along with his maturity, Joanna is lastly embracing her husband’s mindset.
“Chip is all about surprises and spontaneity,” she instructed Drew. “I’ve realized it’s simply extra enjoyable to let go. On the finish of the day, after I look again I simply need to keep in mind the moments.”
Chip’s birthday shall be certainly one of them. “Joanna is planning a particular celebration for him with the entire household,” says the supply. “Chip might complain about little aches and pains, however he is aware of how extremely blessed he’s. His life turned out higher than he may have ever imagined.”
