Better Homes and Gardens star announces shock move after 17 years

Following Ed Halmagyi’s departure from the show in November last year, another beloved TV personality has announced that they are stepping back from Better Homes and Gardens in 2024.

Food presenter and chef Karen Martini, who joined the series in 2007, will be making fewer appearances on the lifestyle program this year as she prioritises her new restaurants and her family.

Speaking to 7NEWS.com.au about her decision, Karen shared that she has plenty of “exciting ventures” in the works and is looking forward to spending more time with her teenage daughters.

“With my two new restaurants - Johnny’s Green Room already open and Saint George set to launch soon - as well as so many other projects on the go, 2024 is shaping up to be my busiest year ever,” she said.

“My daughters are in their last teenage years too - it’s quite daunting as Stella is in year 12 and also on her Ls.

“With so much on my plate, I’ve made the decision to step back from Better Homes and Gardens this year while I focus on some of my other exciting projects. So don’t be alarmed if I’m not in your living room every Friday night.”

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Karen went on to say that she is “so excited” that her friend and My Kitchen Rules judge Colin Fassnidge will be joining the series this year.

“I think his cheeky flavour is sure to spice up the show and I can’t wait to see him on air when we are back on Friday, February 2,” she remarked.

Colin Fassnidge set to replace Fast Ed

It was announced earlier this month that Colin Fassnidge would be taking over from Ed Halmagyi, also known as ‘Fast Ed’, during the show’s 30th anniversary year.

The Irish-born chef will travel around Australia and share his family recipes every Friday night at 7pm from February 2.

In a statement via the network, Colin said that working on Better Homes and Gardens “really feels like coming home.”

“I've been friends with Johanna [Griggs] ever since I started at Channel 7, and the rest of the cast and I get on like a house on fire,” he shared. “I can’t wait to get out on the road and travel around this beautiful country, cooking with some of the best and freshest produce in the world.

“I’ll be bringing my passion, humour and cheeky Irish flair as I whip up my favourite simple, quick and affordable recipes that everyone can make and enjoy at home.”

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