Why Shaynna Blaze is leaving hit Foxtel show Selling Houses Australia

Some soul searching and a passion project is set to change the life of Selling Houses Australia star Shaynna Blaze forever.

The hammer has fallen on Shaynna Blaze’s time on Selling Houses Australia with the interior designer becoming the second member to leave the popular TV renovation hit.

Over 13 seasons, the show has become Foxtel’s most successful local production, turning Blaze, landscaper Charlie Albone and host Andrew Winter into TV stars and Logie winners.

Albone quit the show in February last year to join Better Home and Gardens, citing Selling Houses’ extensive nationwide filming schedule as detracting from time with his family.

After a break last year where COVID restricted any interstate travel or filming, the fourteenth season was moved to begin shooting next month, rather than the usual second half of the year.

That directly clashed with Blaze’s work commitments outside of TV – she runs a successful interior design business and is about to launch a “passion” project.

Selling Houses Australia’s Andrew Winter, Charlie Albone and Shaynna Blaze. Pic: Foxtel

“With the year of COVID it started me thinking about what I wanted,” Blaze told News Corp Australia.

“I am working on some exciting projects which I’m producing. I would have loved to have done both but I couldn’t make it work. And I thought maybe it’s time I backed myself.

“I’ve given my heart and soul to the show. It hasn’t just been me being on a TV show, every time I’ve done it I’ve given everything. When you’re trying to do other projects and throw yourself into those something has to give.

“There’s been a lot of soul searching, really making sure I’m making the right decision. I owe Foxtel so much for Selling Houses Australia. It’s why I’m here, I’m leaving with total gratitude.

“It’s a fresh start for Andrew to find a new way to do the show without us dragging him down!,” Blaze joked.

Shaynna Blaze is working on a secret passion project. Pic: Angie Summa

Shaynna Blaze has decided to back herself. Pic: Angie Summa

Foxtel’s Executive Director of Television Brian Walsh said he was proud of Blaze’s evolution and success.

“Shaynna’s reached a point in her professional life where she felt it’s time to try new ventures and to back herself with a couple of projects she wanted to do for some time,” Walsh said.

“We reluctantly accepted her decision but she goes with our deepest gratitude and thanks.

“She’s been an instrumental part of the success of Selling Houses Australia, the show simply wouldn’t be where it is today without Shaynna. 13 seasons is a remarkable achievement. We wish her all the best.”

Host Andrew Winter will remain with Selling Houses Australia. While casting is already underway for a new gardening expert, Foxtel will also now begin the hunt for a new interior designer.

“The show will go on, there’s now an opportunity for two new faces to join Andrew Winter,” Walsh said.

“We’re committed to the show, Selling Houses is a show that is enduring, viewers can expect a brand new season with an all new line-up later in the year.”

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Watch or stream Selling Houses Australia here.