Darren Criss Gifts Best Friend and Manager a One-of-a-Kind Renovation in HGTV's 'Celebrity IOU'

The multitalented star helped create a work-from-home paradise in his manager's home.

Darren Criss is a famous actor, singer and songwriter but, in a new episode of HGTV’s hit series Celebrity IOU, he’ll trade in his guitar for a sledgehammer to express his great gratitude to his decade-long best friend, manager and fellow music fan, Ricky, who he credits with helping to launch his career.

Photo by: Dennys Ilic

Dennys Ilic

During the episode on Monday, July 19, at 9 p.m. ET/PT, Darren, who has an Emmy® Award, Golden Globe® Award and Screen Actors Guild Award® to his credit, will take a much different stage, working beside real estate and renovation experts Drew and Jonathan Scott to demolish walls, jackhammer concrete and nail down framing.

The trio will ultimately transform Ricky’s old detached garage and unused outdoor area into beautiful, functional spaces for his family to enjoy. In addition to airing on HGTV, Darren’s episode of Celebrity IOU also will be available to stream on discovery+ early on Monday, July 19.

“I think the dream for anybody in any profession is to be able to work with your friends,” said Darren. “Ricky has devoted an unfathomable amount of time—more time than I believe I deserve—away from his wife and his kid to make my dreams come true. This is a small token of all my appreciation for everything he’s done.”

Darren’s wish is to turn Ricky's rickety garage into a dedicated work-from-home space, something he's never had before and desperately needs. Darren will recruit Drew and Jonathan to not only turn the garage into a home office but also to maximize the renovated building for use as an in-law suite equipped with a living area, bathroom and kitchenette. The Brothers also will give Ricky’s lackluster backyard a major upgrade by building an outdoor lounging area with a hot tub.

“Ricky is easily one of the best things that has ever happened to me in my entire life,” added Darren. “He has invested so much of himself into making my dreams come true.”

Fans are invited to visit HGTV’s digital platforms for additional fresh content from each new episode of Celebrity IOU. Viewers can watch the episodes on HGTV GO the same day and time as the TV premieres—Mondays at 9 p.m. Fans can connect with the series at HGTV.com/Celebrity-IOU to find articles, before and after photo galleries and more details about the celebrities. Social media users can follow @HGTV and #CelebIOU on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for extra show content and updates. Drew and Jonathan also will share more from the new episodes on their social channels at @mrdrewscott (Instagram, Twitter) and @jonathanscott (Instagram, Twitter).

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