Big star set to buy one of The Block homes after being spotted at the inspections in Melbourne’s Bayside

Andy Lee is rumored to be buying one of this year’s properties on The Block after he was spotted at open inspections over the weekend.

The comedian, 42, joined fans and potential buyers of the show at inspections in Melbourne’s Hampton East.

According to Yahoo Lifestylethe radio star ‘looked happy’ as he inspected Eliza and sister Liberty’s property.

“(Andy) seemed quite surprised at how well the girls did and had incredible support,” the insider said.

“Reserve prices are currently being discussed and it wouldn’t be unreasonable for Andy to pick up one of the houses on the street.”

It comes as the show faces drama, controversy and claims of bullying.

The block is potentially considering some big changes next year after viewer complaints and falling ratings.

According to sources close to the production, Nine may change the show’s production company after season 20 airs next year to freshen things up.

“The block could fall apart if (the producers) and the team behind the show don’t make some big changes,” the source said.

One source of tension was the drama between villains Brett and Christy, and their rivals Leah and Ash, with the feud taking over the entire season.

“I don’t think they really expected as much conflict as they got, but they chose competitive women, around the same age, who have no self-awareness and wouldn’t hold back on their opinions,” the source explained.

“This has been an explosive season,” they added, before claiming the drama was “toned down” for television because of how heated it was on set.

‘They escalated (Christy and Brett) into the villains of the show and watered down the others so the audience wouldn’t get confused about who is good and who is bad.’

Despite the backlash from viewers, a source said the producers were not surprised by what happened.

“These women are acting as usual.” They are doing exactly what they were set up to do and it really isn’t their fault. “If you get all the ingredients into the mix, you’ll hardly get mad when the cake rises,” they said.

“Channel Nine would be foolish to pull the show, but maybe it’s time they gave it a little refresh,” they added.

When contacted for comment, a representative for Channel Nine dismissed the claims and insisted there were “no changes at the production company”.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has been inundated with complaints about the current season of The Block.

In just one week, the ACMA registered a total of 28 complaints – the most it has ever received for a series of renovations.

An ACMA spokesman told The Australian: “The majority of inquiries related to allegations of bullying, harassment and the promotion of anti-social behavior among competitors.”

This comes after many articles and discussions regarding the heightened drama between the contestants this season.

The producers are eager to intensify this drama, especially considering that the houses shown in this season were smaller compared to those in the 2022 season.

With the exception of occasional competition from Seven’s MKR, this strategy has led to higher ratings for Nine.

Although this season is down a dramatic 20 percent from last year, it’s still one of the highest-rated programs currently airing.

Michael Healy, director of Nine Television, was unapologetic about the approach, saying the figures speak for themselves.

“The Block is an unrivaled powerhouse on Australian television. The fact that more than 40% of the country has joined this series is a phenomenal achievement.

“We never take the loyalty of our viewers for granted and look forward to delivering a real crescendo to the current season, ahead of an unprecedented 20th series in 2024.”