What Happened to Donovan on Windy City Rehab? Who is Donovan on Windy City Rehab?
by Sona
Updated Mar 16, 2023
Who is Donovan on Windy City Rehab?
Donovan Eckhardt was a contractor on the HGTV series Windy City Rehab, working alongside interior designer Alison Victoria to renovate homes in Chicago. Donovan Eckhardt, a 40-year-old contractor from Chicago, became well-known for his appearance on Windy City Rehab Season 1, which premiered in January 2019. Alongside co-host Alison Victoria, Eckhardt collaborated on various projects, including the renowned renovation of a luxurious 4,000-square-foot home in the desirable Lincoln Square neighborhood. Through his expert craftsmanship and ability to bring Victoria's designs to life, Eckhardt quickly became recognized as a highly skilled and sought-after contractor in the Chicago area. The Lincoln Square renovation project, in particular, was a standout example of Eckhardt's talent, as he expertly executed Victoria's vision for the space, resulting in a stunning final product that exceeded all expectations.
What Happened to Donovan on Windy City Rehab?
Donovan Eckhardt appeared on Windy City Rehab as a contractor from 2019 to 2020, but things took a sour turn during the second season. He left the show after a falling out with co-host Alison Victoria over their projects' finances, as reported by People. Eckhardt then filed a lawsuit against HGTV parent company Discovery and Windy City Rehab producers Big Table Media, claiming he was falsely portrayed as the show's villain and blamed for crimes he didn't commit. However, as per The Hollywood Reporter, his defamation case was dismissed, and he failed to obtain the $2 million he was seeking from the show's production companies. The Chicago Sun Times reported on April 15th, 2022, that Eckhardt had an "0-2 record" in his legal attempts to gain compensation from the show's producers.
Windy City Rehab
Windy City Rehab is an American television series that airs on HGTV, featuring interior designer Alison Victoria and contractor Donovan Eckhardt (in season one and early season two). Unlike most HGTV shows, the series focuses on home renovation projects in Chicago, Illinois, with a particular emphasis on city-based townhomes and apartments. Many of the featured homes are over a century old, with some even designated as landmarked buildings, presenting unique design and construction challenges. The show's first season premiered on January 1st, 2019, consisting of 11 episodes. The production of season two was delayed due to the producer contracting COVID-19 and aired in 2021. The show's third season began broadcasting in April 2022.
What happened to Windy City Rehab?
The second season of Windy City Rehab was marked by legal battles and a falling out between co-hosts Alison Victoria and Donovan Eckhardt. Despite these challenges, the show concluded its second season and was subsequently renewed for nine additional one-hour episodes. According to a report by Deadline, the duo was sued by a couple during the season, but the issue was eventually resolved. Eckhardt left the season midway and subsequently filed a lawsuit against Discovery Inc. and the show's producer, Big Table Media, alleging defamation and emotional distress due to his portrayal in the season. The suit did not name Victoria, as per the report.
What happened to Donovan on Windy City Rehab - FAQs
Donovan Eckhardt was a contractor on the HGTV series Windy City Rehab, working alongside interior designer Alison Victoria to renovate homes in Chicago.
Windy City Rehab is an American television series that airs on HGTV, featuring interior designer Alison Victoria and contractor Donovan Eckhardt (in season one and early season two).
He left the show after a falling out with co-host Alison Victoria over their projects' finances, as reported by People.
The second season of Windy City Rehab was marked by legal battles and a falling out between co-hosts Alison Victoria and Donovan Eckhardt. Despite these challenges, the show concluded its second season and was subsequently renewed for nine additional one-hour episodes.
Yet Another Windy City Rehab Lawsuit Hits Alison Victoria And Donovan Eckhardt As They Dissolve Partnership.