Could reality TV juggernaut The Block be about to lose its two hosts? A source close to the renovation series claims Shelley Craft and Scott Cam could walk if their demands aren’t met.
“Scott and Shelley are banding together to get more money,” the source says. “They are two of the smartest hosts in the business when it comes to contracts and dollars and timing their chats with the network.”
WATCH: The moment Scott Cam picks on El’ise over budget blowouts
“They waited until the audition callout for 2020 went to air to make their move.”
Next year’s season of The Block is set to be the most ambitious and expensive yet, with Channel Nine said to be shelling out a massive $15 million to buy an old nursing home in Brighton, Victoria. While Shelley and Scott are signed to host the 2020 season, it is the purchase price Nine paid for the property that spurred them into action.
“That amount made Scott and Shelley sit up and take notice, and start negotiations for 2021,” the source continues. “They have asked to discuss 2021 as soon as possible.”
With The Block’s ratings as strong as ever, the loss of Scott and Shelley would be a huge blow for Channel Nine.
Things have been tense on the show for a while. Viewers were not happy with Scott following claims he set up the tearful meltdown of one of the shows contestants.
El’ise was left visibly distressed following her budget meeting, where Scott and a Suncorp representative told her that her budget was “lacking.”
The mother-of-three was told that she and husband Matt had already spent $98,000 of their $250,000 budget.
Afterwards, the contestant said she felt “humiliated” and “made a fool of” especially after fellow contestant Mel was awarded $5,000 for her great money management skills.
For more, see this week’s New Idea – out now!