Love It or List It is a popular home renovation and real estate television show that first premiered on HGTV in 2008. The show features Hilary Farr, an interior designer, and David Visentin, a real estate agent, who go head-to-head to convince homeowners to either “love” their renovated home or “list” it and move into a new one.
Who is Hilary Farr?
Hilary Farr was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, to a British mother and a Canadian father. Her mother was Anglican and a member of the Church of England, while her father was Jewish. Growing up, Farr celebrated both Christian and Jewish traditions.
She was raised in London, where she attended the Royal Ballet School until the age of 11, originally aspiring to become a ballerina. Over time, she developed an interest in theatre and was first introduced to interior design by helping her mother decorate their home.
A Diverse and Dynamic Career
Hilary Farr has built a multifaceted career that spans design, television, and even acting. Best known today as the no-nonsense design expert on HGTV’s Love It or List It, Farr’s path to success has been anything but ordinary. With a flair for creativity and an eye for transformation, she has made a name for herself in multiple industries over the decades.
Before becoming a household name in home design, Hilary Farr pursued a career in acting. In the 1970s and early 1980s, she appeared in several films and TV shows, including small roles in The Rocky Horror Picture Show and City on Fire. While living in Los Angeles, she also worked in set design and home renovation, blending her love for performance with her developing passion for interiors.
Farr’s natural design talent led her to renovate and stage homes in LA, eventually working with celebrities and high-end properties. Her success in this field allowed her to branch out into interior design professionally, taking on residential and commercial projects in both the U.S. and Canada. She later founded her own firm, Hilary Farr Design, with clients across North America and the UK.
What Happened to Hilary on Love it or List it
In 2021, Farr launched her own HGTV show, Tough Love with Hilary Farr, where she helps families redesign dysfunctional homes while addressing deeper emotional struggles tied to their spaces. The show revealed her deeper empathy and counseling instincts, earning praise for being both touching and transformative.
However, despite her successful career, Farr has faced personal challenges. In 2021, she revealed that she had been diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in 2014. She chose to share her story in an interview with People magazine, hoping to raise awareness and encourage others to prioritize their health.
Hilary Farr Today
Today, Hilary Farr remains a prominent figure in the world of home renovation and design. She continues to co-host HGTV’s hit series Love It or List It, where her sharp design skills and quick wit keep viewers engaged season after season. Her dynamic on-screen partnership with David Visentin is still a fan favorite, with the duo known for their friendly banter and home transformation magic.
In addition to her ongoing TV success, Hilary also leads her own design firm, Hilary Farr Design, taking on residential and commercial projects across North America. Her work is known for its balance of elegance and functionality, always tailored to the client’s needs.
In recent years, Farr has also become a more vocal advocate for women’s health, following her public revelation about surviving breast cancer. She uses her platform to encourage early detection and empower others to take charge of their well-being.
Now in her 70s, Hilary Farr continues to inspire as a bold, stylish, and resilient force in the design world, proving that it’s never too late to evolve, thrive, and lead with confidence.
