It’s hard to believe, but The Block is celebrating its 20th anniversary season in 2024. After two decades on the air, the hit renovation reality show is pulling out all the stops to make this upcoming season the biggest and best yet. However, the road to the 20th season wasn’t an easy one as the producers hit some unexpected roadblocks.
Originally, Nine Network had grand plans to film The Block’s milestone season in the historic country town of Daylesford. However, those plans were scrapped after concerns were raised by local residents about the potential disruption and impacts of filming. So the search restarted for the perfect picture-perfect location to host the anniversary celebration.
After some uncertainty, the producers finally settled on the remote town of Phillip Island as the filming location for The Block 2024. With a population just over 7,000, the seaside locale is a little over a 90-minute drive from Melbourne. The mayor was thrilled, telling Australian media: “I’m as thrilled as he is that we’re bringing the show down there.”
Of course, fans have many burning questions about what to expect for this supersized 20th season. One of the biggest is simply when does The Block actually start airing? Though an official premiere date has not been announced yet, all signs point to August for the season kick-off. Pictures surfaced of longtime host Scotty Cam enjoying a “family lunch” in late February before heading off to the set.
Behind the scenes, reports indicate filming commenced on March 1st. Scotty will be returning alongside Shelley Craft to present the anniversay season. However, there will be a change on the judging panel. Neale Whitaker has opted to sit this season out in order to remain by his partner David’s side during an ongoing health battle.
Replacing Neale will be judging veteran Marty Fox, who previously filled in during the 2023 season. As for the fates of longstanding judges Shaynna Blaze and Darren Palmer, their involvement has not been confirmed yet by Nine. Fans will have to stay tuned for any judging shake-up announcements.
Arguably the biggest mystery surrounding The Block 2024 is the identity of the contestants. Nine has remained tight-lipped so far about which teams of renovators will be tackling the huge anniversary season. If past seasons are any indication, they’ll need to bring their A-game to survive this milestone year.
No matter what curves balls get thrown their way, viewers can expect the utmost drama, impressive renovations, and burgeoning feuds when The Block finally premieres its 20th season later this year. Are you ready for the biggest season yet? The countdown is officially on!
Lets hope there is no bullying – it’s about the transformation of the homes – and maybe new judges?