The Block insider reveals Nine struggled to get teams from earlier series to come back for an All-Star appearance in the 20th anniversary season – as popular contestants refused to return: ‘It isn’t the same’
As a dedicated follower of The Block since its early seasons, I must confess my disappointment with the lineup for the show’s 20th anniversary. It seems like the network has missed an opportunity to bring back some of the most memorable and beloved contestants from the show’s heyday.
As a long-time fan of “The Block,” I have been eagerly anticipating its 20th anniversary season this year. However, having worked in the entertainment industry for several years, I can understand the challenges the show faces when trying to get teams to return for another season. The constant pressure, long hours, and emotional rollercoaster of renovating a property while also dealing with the high-stakes competition can be overwhelming, and it’s not surprising that some teams might choose to step away after a few seasons. Nevertheless, I am still excited to see who will make an All-Star appearance this year and what surprises they have in store for us!
A source reportedly informed Daily Mail Australia that the network-selected cast members for the upcoming season are considered less impressive compared to previous teams by some.
As a devoted admirer looking back at the golden era of this show, I’ve heard some past competitors express that it “lacks the magic it once had,” while others voice their reluctance to “reopen old wounds.”
According to a source, they were able to trace back the registration of past Blockheads up until the year 2012.
As a die-hard fan, I must confess my heart skips a beat at the thought of watching the early-season contestants strut their stuff once more on our beloved stage. However, it seems that fate has other plans, as these seasoned veterans of the first four seasons have chosen not to return for another round. Alas, it’s a bitter pill to swallow, but I remain hopeful for fresh faces and exciting new talent in the upcoming season.
‘That’s a pretty disappointing omission when you look at this being a 20th birthday celebration.’
Since 2003, individuals who appeared on the show have consistently responded with a “no”. These responses did not generate significant interest when contacted via phone calls.
The competitors who have returned aren’t particularly thrilling. It seems they simply worked with what was available to them.
As a die-hard fan, I can’t contain my excitement for The Block 2024! This time around, we’ll be returning to the breathtaking Phillip Island, where 11 teams hailing from no less than eight different seasons will compete. Among them are teams that first graced our screens back in 2012 – I can hardly believe it’s been that long! The anticipation is already building as we gear up for another season of thrilling renovations and nail-biting competition.
Among those who have been asked to return are the Vines (Dale and Sophie) from 2012, as well as the Duffys (Michael and Carlene) and the Demmrichs (Kyal and Kara), all of whom were featured in 2014.
In my line of work, I often find myself reflecting on the absence of beloved figures like Gavin ‘Gav’ Atkins, Warren ‘Waz’ Sonin, and Amity Dry in a given context. Their presence is undeniably missed.
In 2012, Dale and Sophie placed fourth in a competition held on Dorcas Street, located in the heart of Melbourne’s southern district. This event was recorded for broadcast.
In most episodes of the renovation series, the pair from Victoria don’t really grab attention compared to other personalities like Gavin and Wes or Amity Dry. It seems unlikely that they are often featured.
Yet, it was mentioned further that Nine found it challenging to persuade any of the well-known teams from previous seasons to rejoin the program.
According to the source, the sentiment seemed to be reciprocal among the alumni during the years ranging from 2003 to 2010. They noted that the program has significantly evolved since those times.
The focus has shifted from the renovation; now, it’s all about the theatrics unfolding among the residences.
“I doubt if the original participants could adapt to the current format, which remains one of Channel Nine’s most celebrated triumphs.”
One set of unidentified participants asserted that the program has lost its former glory and, in all honesty, many contestants no longer follow the show afterwards.
After understanding the behind-the-scenes of the show, it seems more like reliving a past pain instead of reminiscing about a beloved memory.
As for me, I’ve found myself appreciating the peaceful life away from the limelight that some former reality TV couples appear to be enjoying. It seems they’re thriving in the absence of the pressure and public scrutiny that comes with being on television.
A close friend of couple Gav and Waz from series one said they refused to return to the show because ‘they aren’t really interested in appearing on TV these days’.
‘They are just happy living their best lives under the radar.’
Because there weren’t enough talented former contestants, the producers of Nine had to adjust their plans for a season featuring only past winners and popular contestants, instead opting for a different concept.
Rather than showcasing various teams from earlier seasons, this renovation program will highlight some newer teams by assisting fresh contestants in constructing a hidden project instead.
Among the familiar faces returning for the competition, fans will be thrilled to recognize Steph and Gian Ottavio, who triumphed in 2023, as well as 2022’s record-setters, Omar Slaimankhel and Oz Said.
The stellar team lineup consists of 11 squads from eight distinct seasons, featuring top picks Eliza and Liberty Paschke from season 19.
In Season 18, we’ll see the return of Tom and Sarah-Jane Calleja, along with Ronnie and Georgia Caceres, who previously appeared in Seasons 13 and 17.
Competitors Jimmy and Tam Wilkins, victorious in the 2020 season, as well as Andy and Deb Saunders who contested in 2019, will also be joining us.
Completing the group are Kyal and Kara Demmrich (2014), Michael and Carlene Duffy (2014), Dale and Sophie Vine (2012), as well as Alisa and Lysandra Fraser, who contributed in 2013 and 2014.
Daily Mail Australia have reached out to Nine for comment.
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2024-08-13 06:19