TV legend Erik Estrada, best known for his iconic role in the television series “CHiPs,” is bringing compassion to television screens with the series “Divine Renovation: Destination New England,” which premiered its second season last month on Up Faith & Family.
The series, which focuses on helping families in need through community-driven home renovations, stems from Estrada’s long-standing commitment to making a positive difference in people’s lives.
“It’s about doing good and feeling good for people that could use it and could really need it, but for some physical or financial reason, they can’t afford it,” Estrada said.
The show’s second season spotlights families in Torrington, Connecticut, utilizing local vendors and businesses to transform homes. Executive producers Monty Hobbs and Valerie conceived the project nearly three years ago, approaching Estrada based on his previous experience in Christian filmmaking.
Estrada, who has appeared in multiple faith-based films in the past 15 years, immediately saw the project’s potential. “I said, ‘You know, that’s a really cool thing,'” he recalled.
The 76-year-old actor, who recently became a deputy sheriff in Virginia, sees the series as an extension of his lifelong mission to help others. His journey began early, inspired by his involvement in “The Cross and the Switchblade” when he was just 19.
“I was begging God to give me some work so I can make some money to get my mother out of the ghetto in the projects,” Estrada said.
That early experience set the stage for a career marked by service and compassion. From his breakthrough role portraying Nicky Cruz in “The Cross and the Switchblade” to his current television series, Estrada has consistently used his platform to bring attention to important social causes.
“The celebrity part pays off big to bring attention to muscular dystrophy, to other diseases, other disabilities that people incur through life,” he explained.
The new series builds on this philosophy, offering viewers more than just entertainment. Each episode showcases real transformations, not just of physical spaces, but of lives.
“Watch the faces of the people that we’re doing it for,” Estrada said. “That’s your instant reward right then and there.”
Drawing from a career spanning decades, Estrada brings a unique perspective to the project. His experience on “CHiPs” taught him the power of positive, family-friendly programming. In the show, the policemen never even drew weapons and was known for its broad appeal.
“You could park your kid in front of the TV and go to the garage and build something and not worry about what the kids can see or hear,” he said.
Now, Estrada is building something different – hope for families in need. The series represents more than just television; it’s a community effort that brings together local businesses and residents to create meaningful change.
Estrada shows no signs of slowing down. He remains committed to projects that make a difference, viewing his celebrity status as a tool for positive change.
“I can bring attention to something that needed attention,” he said.
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