HGTV’S “Renovation Aloha” collection is going through authorized hassle after an episode aired that allegedly showing the remains of Native Hawaiian ancestors in violation of state legislation.
Kamohai (left) and Tristyn (proper) within the completed espresso space, as seen on Renovation Aloha, Season 1. (Courtesy HGTV)
The episode of the present, which follows married couple Kamohai and Tristyn Kalama as they renovate homes on Oahu, aired final week and was seen by the state’s Attorney General’s Office.
According to the grievance, obtained by People magazine, the present found human skeletal remains on the property of a residential renovation undertaking whereas filming. Based on the situation of the location, the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) and the State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD) had cause to imagine the remains are iwi kupuna, or skeletal remains of Native Hawaiian ancestors.
Iwi kupuna are provided “the highest level of protection” per the grievance, and Hawaii state legislation particularly prohibits the taking, appropriation, excavation, destruction, or alteration of burial websites. Photography can also be “prohibited, unless written consent is first obtained” from relevant authorities.
Kamohai (left) and Tristyn (right) on the new deck area of the “Carjacks House” (Courtesy HGTV)
The state alleges that the Kalamas “posted video and photographic content to their public Instagram account (@kamohaiandtristyn) that appears to depict the human skeletal remains.”
It also claims that a recent episode of “Renovation Aloha” contained footage depicting the remains without consent from a burial council or the DLNR.
The Kalamas are named in the suit alongside HGTV, Discovery Inc, and producer Nathan Fields.
Kamohai and Tristyn Kalama HGTVs “Renovation Aloha.” (Courtesy HGTV)
The motion is seeking an unspecified amount in civil penalties and a permanent injunction ordering the defendants to remove any online or broadcast content showing the remains.
“We take the concerns raised by the Native Hawaiian community very seriously and are committed to ensuring our programming is respectful and appropriate,” an HGTV spokesperson said in a statement shared with People Magazine. “We apologize to anyone who found any part of the episode offensive, as that was not HGTV’s intention.”
Tristyn (left) and Kamohai (right) on the new deck of the “Bee House,” as seen on Renovation Aloha, Season 1. (Courtesy HGTV)
Deadline reported that the episode, titled “Bones on the Big Island,” was re-edited to remove the footage and includes a note that local authorities were contacted as soon as the remains were found. It also states the couple decided to not go forward with developing the lot out of respect.
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