The Block star leaves fans devastated after revealing he's leaving the show: 'We'll miss you'

The Block's Neale Whitaker has left fans devastated after revealing he's no longer going to be a judge on the show. It comes after he stepped back from the show last year to be with his partner David, who was battling serious health issues.

Taking to Instagram, Neale shared a length post, updating his followers with the heartbreaking news. He wrote: "It’s no secret that The Block is currently filming on Victoria’s Phillip Island and lots of people have been asking me if I’m back on the show this year.

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"I thought now was a good time to answer those questions. In 2023 - as many of you will know - I took a break from The Block to spend more time with my partner David who was dealing with some serious health issues. We all hoped that by this year I would be able to return full-time to the show, but life doesn’t always run to schedule."

He continued, "David gets stronger with each passing month, but my decision remains to be at home as much as possible. So while you’ll see me on Phillip Island from time to time, I’ve handed my judging sheet permanently to Marty Fox (who stepped in so brilliantly last season) and I know he will have a blast with Shaynna and Darren as I did for 17 seasons. It’s been such a privilege to be part of Australia’s most iconic TV show for an unbelievable 13 years - unbelievable to me, anyway."

Neale went on to thank the show's creators for "having faith" in him from the beginning, as well as his fellow judges, Shaynna Blaze and Darren Palmer, who he says have "become good friends".

He also thanked the people that work on the show, including the production team and the crew, as well as the contestants.

"And thank you to Nine for having me on its flagship show for so long. Congratulations and good luck to this year’s Blockheads for their Phillip Island journey," he finished.

Neale's friends and followers shared their well wishes, with Shaynna writing, "How can you thank someone for all their talent, intelligence & class who has been an integral part of your life on the screen? You can’t. But I do know The Three Amigos live on outside of the screen, always. Huge love to you Neale, and to David too - Miss you xxxx."

"Family first, always ❤️," one user wrote, while another added, "Love you mate, all our love, good energy and warm healing prayers go to your lovely David, good luck with everything you do and I really hope our paths cross again you absolute legend and gentleman, the show will not be the same again."

"Although we will miss your style and grace, of course David’s health comes first," a third said. "Hope all goes well. Thanks for so many years of entertainment 🥰."

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Ronnie and Georgia Caceres, who were contestants on the show, wrote, "Neale, our all time favourite! Your insightful critiques and guidance have been invaluable on @theblock Thank you for inspiring us to push creative boundaries."

Neale has been part of the show since the third season and he had hoped to be part of the show's 20th season this year when he first announced he was stepping back from the show last year.

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