Fan-favourite judge on The Block, Neale Whitaker will not be returning full-time to the renovation series in 2024.
During the 19th season of The Block, Neale revealed he would sporadically appear on the show to judge the contestant’s room after his partner, David who was suffering with “some serious health issues.”
(Image: Instagram)
While Neale was hoping to make a permanent return to judging alongside Shaynna Blaze and Darren Palmer, these plans have gone array.
“It’s no secret that The Block is currently filming on Victoria’s Phillip Island and lots of people have been asking me if I’m back on the show this year. I thought now was a good time to answer those questions,” he said in a post shared to Instagram.
“We all hoped that by this year I would be able to return full-time to the show, but life doesn’t always run to schedule. David gets stronger with each passing month, but my decision remains to be at home as much as possible.”
(Image: Instagram)
Neale previously revealed that his partner of 20 years was making “a great recovery.”
In 2023, real estate tycoon Marty Fox replaced Neale and he will be doing so again in the very special 20th season.
“I know he will have a blast with Shaynna and Darren as I did for 17 seasons,” Neale said of his replacement. “It’s been such a privilege to be part of Australia’s most iconic TV show for an unbelievable 13 years – unbelievable to me, anyway.”
In response to Neale’s heartwarming message – where he also thanked Nine and The Block production team – Shaynna shared her own tribute in the comment section.
“How can you thank someone for all their talent, intelligence & class who has been an integral part of your life on the screen? You can’t. But I do know The Three Amigos live on outside of the screen, always. Huge love to you Neale, and to David too – Miss you xxxx,” she wrote.
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