Channel Nine star shocks industry as he sensationally quits flagship show in favour of rival network

Neale Whitaker, known for his work on The Block, recently announced a surprising change in his professional path, about a year after he left the Channel Nine series.

The seasoned interior designer, aged 63, will soon make an appearance as a judge on the forthcoming reality TV show “My Reno Rules” airing on Channel Seven. This popular program is hosted by Dr. Chris Brown.

As a die-hard enthusiast, I can hardly contain my excitement about being part of a groundbreaking series that’s set to revolutionize the landscape of renovation TV! I get to impart my knowledge and passion for home makeovers to an exciting new cohort of Australian renovators, all in one of my most beloved cities. That’s right, folks – it’s time to embark on this incredible journey together!

‘I can’t wait to see the creative and innovative ideas our teams bring to the competition.’ 

In this show, called “My Reno Rules,” four teams of competitors will thoroughly redesign and update two pre-existing homes. These revamped properties will be awarded as prizes to fortunate viewers at the end.

Instead of The Block, this reality show stands out because it allows contestants to express their unique styles, as they’re not required to auction off the houses they design. Unlike traditional shows where participants strive to appeal to potential buyers, here they’re free to follow their personal ideas.

In simple terms, it means that the participants will be evaluated based on the skillfulness, originality, and the way they carry out their work, as mentioned by Neale to the hosts of Sunrise, Natalie Barr and Matt Shirvington, last Friday.

As a devoted supporter, I find myself joining an esteemed judging panel, graced by none other than Simon Cohen, the esteemed Top Buyer’s Agent, and Julia Green, a renowned interior design expert.

The series is set to air on Channel Seven and 7Plus next year. 

Additionally, it has been announced that Adrian Portelli, a successful billionaire home buyer, will also become part of the show. This means that he, too, is a Block veteran.

The 36-year-old business owner, who invested millions in buying properties during the past three seasons, announced on social media that he is ending his involvement with the Channel Nine series permanently.

He penned, ‘I’m sure none of my old high school teachers ever imagined…that I’D BE HOSTING MY OWN TV SHOW,’ with a picture of him and Dr. Chris Brown as the show’s poster.

It seems the Reno Games could use a good cleaning. A new layer is due. The competition is open. Get ready for ‘My Reno Rules’ on Seven.”

In this paraphrased version, I aimed to maintain the original meaning while making it more conversational and easier to understand. Additionally, I tried to keep the tone of excitement about the upcoming event.

7 has unveiled a fresh home renovation show titled “My Reno Rules,” which is being produced by the team behind MasterChef Australia, Endemol Shine.

The show will feature four teams of renovators competing on two neighbouring rundown house. 

Teams are vying for a substantial reward, as the thrilling final event will bestow two completely refurbished and decorated homes upon the winners.

Before the start of the new season, Scott Cam, the host of The Block, issued a caution to billionaire entrepreneur Adrian Portelli.

Scott begged Portelli not to attend this year’s auction to give others a chance to own a home.

In a recent interview on Nova 96.9’s Fitzy & Wippa with Kate Ritchie, it was disclosed that we had expressed to Adrian, “We’d prefer if you didn’t join us next year, if that’s feasible.” However, as it is a public auction, the final decision rests with him, and he is free to make whatever choice he desires.

Although he mentioned that he might not show up, there’s still a possibility that he will. At this point, it’s uncertain, but we aim to provide an opportunity for parents to try building a block house.

‘If Adrian comes and wants to buy the lot of them, well, that rules them out,’ Scott said.

In the final episode of The Block in 2024, Portelli created history by acquiring all five properties at a massive cost of $15 million.

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2025-08-15 04:33