We're so excited to give you a behind-the-scenes look at this incredible new chapter of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition! When one of our co-stars, Arianne Bellizaire, stopped by Nashville to film a special travel hacks episode of The Gold Stars for our YouTube channel, we knew it was the perfect chance to sit down together, reflect on all the memorable moments we shared on set, and answer some of your questions.
(Of course, we couldn't help but miss our fourth co-star, Wendell Holland, who brought so much heart and energy to every project. Wendell, if you're reading this, know we're already scheming more ways to get the whole team back together!)
The transformations we’ve witnessed have been nothing short of extraordinary, but what truly moves us is the strength and resilience behind them. These incredible families have opened their hearts and shared their stories with us, showing courage and hope that inspire us every day. It’s been a privilege to be part of their journeys, to celebrate their triumphs, and to witness the joy they’ve created along the way. We’re so grateful for the chance to share these unforgettable moments with you.
CLEA
If you could describe your experience on the show in one word, what would it be and why?
"I hate to say it because it's so obvious, but extreme. Everything was extreme. Our extreme friendships, our extreme love for each other, the extremely deserving families. The extreme makeovers, the extreme edit zone, the extreme weather. She was our fifth castmate, and insisted on being the main character. The weather continued to show up in full force, every single day, in every single scene, and in the most extreme way."
Any construction terms or techniques that completely baffled you at first?
"Yes, I would say all of them. The nail gun was a real question mark for me. But, for the record, I did successfully manage to get six nails in place—six! It was my shining moment. I think I'm going to put it on my resume now.
The sledgehammer was a whole different story. I was so excited to have my big “demo day” moment, but let’s just say I’m not exactly coordinated with heavy tools. I took one swing, and instead of hitting the wall, I hit my left foot. Not my finest hour. I have a whole new appreciation for the professionals who make it look effortless."
JOANNA
How did you stay inspired and creative when working under pressure with such tight deadlines?
"The camaraderie on this show is incredible. It's the entire team, from the designers to the builders, all coming together with this shared passion. That kind of synergy is contagious; you can’t help but feel motivated when you’re surrounded by people pouring their hearts into such an amazing project.
Obviously, the tight deadlines can be a little stressful, but we all learned to channel that urgency and have fun with it. It’s like this adrenaline-fueled puzzle where every piece has to fit perfectly—there’s something so satisfying about that! Plus, seeing the families’ faces when they walk into their new space is the ultimate payoff."
What’s one item you’ve brought to set as a good luck charm or comfort item?
"I mean, usually, I’m the person who never leaves the house without purse pouches of snacks (seriously, they're non-negotiable), but I didn’t need to pack a single thing because the craft services table on set was next level. For anyone who hasn’t experienced it, craft services is like a magical buffet of snacks and treats to keep everyone on set fueled and happy. It's always there, and definitely counts as my comfort item. My absolute favorites were the peanut butter-filled pretzels and Double Stuf Oreos. I mean, they were basically calling my name. That salty-sweet combo? Total lifesaver during those long filming days."
ARIANNE
What's the funniest thing that happened on set while filming an episode?
"Honestly, there were so many that it’s hard to choose just one. But there was this particular time when we were all together—at this point, we’d spent so much time filming that we just knew each other. Like, we could read each other’s minds.
So, something happened—one of those small things that you’d miss if you weren’t in the moment—and without saying a word, we all locked eyes, the realization hit, and we absolutely lost it laughing. You know that kind of laugh where you don’t even have to explain it? It was like we were all on the same wavelength, and the silliness of it just hit us at the exact same time. Even on long, exhausting days, those little fits of laughter made everything lighter and reminded us how lucky we were to be together. I think those are the memories I’ll carry with me forever.”
What’s your favorite design element or feature you loved to incorporate into the homes?
"Something that was tailored specifically to the family. So every reveal, we would have someone from the family say, how did you even know we needed that or wanted that? Or it feels so much like us. That's really hard to do with so many different families in different parts of the country. And I think that just is a testament to the entire design team and how dialed in they were and have been on making sure these families feel seen and heard."
Watch all new episodes of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition Thursdays at 8/7c on ABC and stream on Hulu.
