Image: Instagram via @nealewhitaker
In news that’s set to turn a few heads in the renovating reality TV world, Neale Whitaker has revealed he’ll be joining My Reno Rules. Long associated with Channel 9’s The Block until his departure was announced in early 2024, it’s an unexpected – but intriguing – move to see him step into a judging role with Channel 7, alongside buyer’s agent Simon Cohen and stylist Julia Green.
“I’m thrilled to be joining a show that will truly redefine 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,” Neale said in a statement from Seven.
Arriving on Seven and 7plus in 2026, My Reno Rules promises to “raise the stakes and flip the script” on building shows. It seems to be a spin-off of My Kitchen Rules, combined with an evolution of Channel 7’s successful Dream Home, which was also hosted by the ever-charming Dr Chris Brown. The series will be based in Melbourne and follow four teams having their homes renovated, culminating in a grand final twist: two Australians – presumably viewers – will win a multi-million-dollar, fully furnished and landscaped home.
Backing the series is billionaire entrepreneur Adrian Portelli, a familiar name to Block fans for his headline-making auction bids – most notably helping sisters Maddy and Charlotte score a $1.65 million profit in 2024, plus an extra $100,000 prize. He’s since put those holiday homes on the market as a package deal.
Adrian has become a key player in the renovation reality TV landscape, thanks to his high-profile persona and LMCT+ business, a subscription-based rewards club that’s sparked its share of debate. Publicly, there’s been more than a little “he said, she said” over his decision to exit The Block.
Scott Cam has previously shared the show’s position: “To be honest, we said to Adrian, ‘We’d love you not to come next year, if that’s all right. But you know, it’s up to him, it’s a public auction and he can do whatever he wants,’” he told Nova 96.9’s Fitzy & Wippa with Kate Ritchie.
Adrian’s version? On Instagram, he said: “Scotty, you’re talking porkies. I told you guys I was leaving. There was never a conversation of being told to sit out of this season.” Shelley Craft has also clarified: “We don’t pay Adrian to be there. He’s not on staff at The Block. He’s not a part of the production. Having said that, I’m sure past contestants are extraordinarily grateful Adrian was at their auctions, because otherwise there might have been crickets in the crowd.”
As for Neale, the former magazine editor and interiors authority – most recently co-hosting Love It or List It on Foxtel – brings a wealth of design expertise and credibility to any renovation stage. Whatever the network, we’ll be tuning in to see him do what he does best: inspire us to create beautiful homes.
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