In a surprise move, Neale Whitaker, a longtime judge on Nine’s hit renovation show The Block, has defected to rival network Seven to star in a similar program, My Reno Rules.
Whitaker, who had been a fixture on The Block since its third season in 2010, announced his departure from the show in May last year.
He had scaled back his on-air commitments in 2023 to care for his partner, David, who was battling ill health.
New Role and New Colleagues
Whitaker will join Simon Cohen, a buyer’s agent from Luxe Listings Sydney, and interior design expert Julia Green on the judging panel of My Reno Rules.
The show, set to air next year, aims to redefine renovation TV.
In a statement, Whitaker expressed his excitement about joining the new show, saying, “I’m thrilled to be part of a show that will truly redefine renovation TV.
Along with Simon and Julia, I get to share my experience with a new generation of Aussie renovators in one of my favourite cities.”
getBlock Connection Intact
Whitaker is not the only former Block personality to join My Reno Rules.
Adrian Portelli, the serial buyer who purchased all five houses at last year’s Block auction, has signed on as the show’s principal sponsor.
Portelli had earlier announced his departure from The Block, stating it would be his last appearance on the show.
Whitaker’s replacement on The Block, real estate agent Marty Fox, joined longtime judges Shaynna Blaze and Darren Palmer.
The Block’s site foreman, Keith Schleiger, also left the show last year, citing family commitments.