Recap of Marlee Matlin on “Celebrity IOU”
Here is a recap of Marlee Matlin’s appearance on HGTV’s “Celebrity IOU” that aired on Sunday, June 9th. The show features well-known HGTV hosts Drew and Jonathan Scott as they work with Hollywood celebrities to transform the homes of “everyday people” who had an impact in the celebrities’ lives.
Marlee chose to honor her friend Lisa Hermatz. Marlee said she’s been a best friend and confidant for over 30 years. Lisa has two daughters, teaches ASL at the college level, and is one of the founders of KODAWest.
Marlee said Lisa loves to have people over and wanted to see her backyard be transformed. Marlee discussed ideas with the Scott brothers through her longtime personal interpreter, Jack Jason.
Throughout the show, Marlee emphasized the importance of a deaf friendly design, such as round tables, having good lighting, and a layout where people can see others easily. There was a funny moment where Jonathan was showing Marlee some of the project plans on a rectangular table. Marlee’s line of sight to her interpreter was obstructed and Marlee said the table should be round to be deaf friendly. Jonathan used a jigsaw to cut a round shape. Later on, Marlee used a jackhammer to break out an old concrete patio. Marlee also helped to drill two pergolas.
Drew picked a new hot tub that has vibrations connected to a sound system so Lisa and her deaf friends would be able to feel it. The team worked hard for about four weeks to complete a beautiful backyard with an outdoor kitchen, a round table with swivel chairs, a hot tub, two pergolas, and a large plant stand. The Scott brothers did the deaf applause after the grill was installed. Lisa’s home also had its exterior repainted to make it white.
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Then it was time for the big reveal. When Lisa got back from a trip to Detroit, she looked surprised and happy to see Marlee on the driveway and the new white color on the house. When they went to the backyard, Lisa’s first reaction was “Wow!” She said she loved it and that the first person she’s inviting to her next party is Marlee.
Lisa liked the deaf friendly circular table. Lisa’s two daughters came to check out the space and they, of course, liked it. Lisa said she didn’t know how to repay Marlee and Marlee said it’s not needed — all she wants is their friendship. Lisa said she’s going to call it the “Marlee Backyard.”
The episode ended with a bunch of Lisa’s deaf and signing friends coming over to have a good time.
It was a very nice episode in which Marlee introduced to the Scott brothers and the audience a lot of deaf concepts.
After the show aired, Lisa posted on social media that she cannot thank Marlee enough for this “gift of a lifetime!” If you want to see it, check out HGTV’s “Celebrity IOU.” It’s on Season 7, Episode 10.