The Block 2026: Steph Ottavio defends Courtney and Sev amid wine-cellar feud, questions judges

Key points

• Former Block winner Steph Ottavio has defended Courtney and Sev against personal online criticism. She warned that the judges' praise was helping turn viewers against the pair.
• Courtney and Sev paid $14,500 for a wine cellar reportedly worth about $100,000, which sparked questions about the show's discount rules. Host Scott Cam accepted that the installation qualified under the rules.
• Ottavio said she preferred the straight-lined design of rivals Adam and Jolene, but believed criticism had become too personal. She urged viewers to remember that contestants are people, and advised Courtney and Sev not to read hostile comments.