Channel Nine's upcoming series of The Block is set to bring back some returning cast members from previous seasons in an attempt to shake up its format.
The new season will see several veteran cast members returning for a special episode in which they form different teams to help the current Blockheads with a secret project.
However, an insider told Yahoo Lifestyle their return is simply a 'test' by Nine to see if audiences are interested in future reunions: 'Executives are dipping their toes in the water.'
If successful, it could lead to the subsequent 2025 iteration becoming an 'All Stars' season, with an open casting call for unknown renovators 'scrapped' altogether.
'If the one-off episode featured toward the end of the upcoming series is well received, then the public casting call will be scrapped by the casting team,' said the source.
Many fan favourites from previous years are slated to make their return, including sisters Liberty and Eliza, and couple Steph and Gian from 2023, best mates Omar and Oz, and lovebirds Tom and Sarah-Jane from 2022.
The upcoming series of The Block looks to be a wild one and is set to air after the Olympics finish on 11 August, while next year's season is slated to begin filming in Daylesford, Victoria in January.
Channel Nine's upcoming series of The Block is set to bring back some returning cast members from previous seasons in an attempt to shake up its format. (Pictured: Co-hosts Scott Cam and Shelley Craft)
It follows reports that the much anticipated 20th anniversary series of The Block is set to hit screens in August - and speculation among fans is mounting it could be the last.
Now filming on Phillip Island in Victoria, Nine's ratings blockbuster has been rocked by shock exits from cast members and contestants leading to rumours the long-running show could be axed next year.
The brand also took a knock earlier this month after its New Zealand iteration was cancelled before filming even started.
The new season will see many returning cast members coming back for a very special episode in which they form different teams to help the current Blockheads with a secret project. Pictured: The 2023 cast
In May, Realestate.com.au reported that rumours about The Block's longevity started after judge Neale Whitaker announced he was quitting the show earlier this year, leaving the cast devastated.
Neale confirmed he will no longer be a regular on the long-running series - He took on a limited role as a judge last year to support his partner, David, as he faced serious health challenges.
The fan favourite is however expected to make guest appearances on the upcoming season alongside judges Shaynna Blaze, Darren Palmer and newcomer Marty Fox.
The former cast members will be helping the upcoming teams (pictured) with a special building project
