As The Block returns for 2026, whispers are growing that a judging shake-up could be on the horizon.
Domain property editor Alice Stolz took centre stage in Week One, filling in for Darren Palmer, and her brief stint behind the clipboard has rattled the status quo.
While Alice is a long-time contributor to the franchise, New Idea understands that her latest cameo could hint at something much bigger.
“The judging panel is looked at every year,” one production insider exclusively tells us.
“No one is irreplaceable on a show that has been running this long. You have to keep looking at whether the people giving the advice are still reflecting what buyers actually want.”
Following a brutal 2025 finale in which two properties failed to sell at auction, the pressure is on the current judges, Shaynna Blaze, Darren, and Marty Fox.
“The auction results are the ultimate report card,” the source says.
“You can give someone tens all season, but if the buyers walk through at the end and disagree with what the judges have been saying, then you have to ask questions.”
While there is no suggestion that any of the current judges are being pushed out, sources say Alice is top of the list should a seat open up.
“Alice would absolutely be in the conversation if Nine decided it was time to make another change,” the source claims.
“And when somebody comes in as a replacement and immediately makes an impact, naturally the existing panel is going to notice.”
Blending interior styling expertise with raw market data, she didn’t pull her punches during her debut week.
“She gave them strong opinions, great reactions, and she wasn’t frightened of upsetting anyone,” the insider adds. “That’s exactly what you want from a Block judge.”
In television, tenure is always provisional, and audiences are wondering whether Alice could be pulled from the sidelines.
New Idea has approached Channel Nine for comment.
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