Keith Schleiger, known to fans of the popular Australian reality series The Block as the no-nonsense foreman, has made a surprising admission about his departure from the show. After 11 successful seasons, Schleiger stepped back from his full-time role in 2024, citing personal commitments and a desire for change.
In an interview with the Daily Mail, the 50-year-old revealed that he hasn’t been able to keep up with the current season due to his busy schedule. “I haven’t seen much of it, I must admit,” Schleiger confessed. His two children, deeply involved in sports, often keep him away from home during key viewing hours.
Life After The Block
Despite stepping away from the show, Schleiger expressed confidence in the new foreman, Dan Reilly, who has taken over the reins at the Daylesford site. “I’m sure Dan is doing very well,” he commented, adding that he occasionally catches episodes when time permits. “It’s nice, I’ll just sit back and watch every now and again,” he admitted.
Beyond his television career, Schleiger has faced significant personal challenges. Earlier this year, he underwent emergency surgery due to an infection that spread to his leg. The infection stemmed from a hip replacement he had a decade ago. “I recovered very quickly,” Schleiger recounted, noting that he returned to work and the golf course just a month after the operation.
New Ventures and Opportunities
In a surprising career twist, Schleiger has taken on the role of “Foreman of Workplace Hunger,” a title given by the iconic Australian ice cream brand Golden Gaytime. This new venture involves promoting the brand’s latest product, the Golden Gaytime Slab, an ice cream sandwich aimed at satisfying tradies across the nation.
Schleiger has embraced this role enthusiastically, stating, “After this interview, I’m going to go to the factories around here and make sure that this snack stacks up.” He plans to distribute the frozen sandwiches widely, ensuring their popularity among his fellow tradespeople.
Reflections and Future Outlook
Though he enjoys his new endeavors, Schleiger admits to missing The Block and the unique challenges it presented. “Oh, I definitely miss it,” he said, but he also appreciates the increased time he now spends with his children and on the golf course.
The decision to leave the show, while difficult, was necessary due to the demanding filming locations and schedule. “It was virtually impossible for me,” Schleiger explained, noting the lengthy commute that left him with little family time.
Reflecting on his reputation as a tough foreman, Schleiger insists that his approach hasn’t changed. “In my building, I’m still the same person you saw on TV,” he stated, though he enjoys fewer conflicts without the pressure of reality TV contestants.
Schleiger expressed excitement about the current season’s format, which involves renovating empty shells rather than existing homes. He also welcomed the departure of serial bidder Adrian Portelli, hoping for a return to traditional auctions. “I think it’s fantastic,” he remarked.
As Schleiger continues to navigate his post-The Block life, he remains a beloved figure in the Australian television landscape, known for his straightforward demeanor and dedication to his craft.
