Drew Lachey and Taniya Nayak Reveal Surprises on Rock the Block

The HGTV hit returns on April 13 with the 98 Degrees star and interior designer as partners.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 6:30pm

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An extreme close-up photograph showcasing the luxurious textures of sequins and shattered disco ball fragments, capturing the high-energy and glamorous aesthetic of a Las Vegas-themed home renovation competition.The glitz and glam of Rock the Block's Vegas-inspired homes shine through in this abstract macro texture.Boston Today

In an exclusive interview, Drew Lachey and Taniya Nayak share their first impressions of each other, which competitors surprised them the most, and the parallels they've found between the music industry and the design/renovation world. The duo also discuss the advice they received from New Kids on the Block's Jonathan and Jordan Knight, who previously competed on Rock the Block.

Why it matters

Rock the Block is a popular HGTV series that pits design teams against each other to transform identical properties into stunning homes. Lachey and Nayak's partnership and insights offer a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and camaraderie of the competition.

The details

Taniya Nayak admits she was 'starstruck' by Drew Lachey's fame and success, but found him to be 'the nicest human being.' Lachey was surprised by Brooke Hogan's design expertise, while both were impressed by Vernon Davis' artistic talents. The duo also drew parallels between the music and design industries, with Lachey noting the importance of creating a cohesive 'album' of rooms. Nayak and Lachey also met with New Kids on the Block's Jonathan and Jordan Knight, who offered advice about balancing entertainment value and the big picture.

  • Rock the Block season 7 premieres on April 13, 2026.
  • Lachey and Nayak worked together for seven weeks in Las Vegas.

The players

Drew Lachey

A member of the popular boy band 98 Degrees who has also appeared on shows like Dancing with the Stars and created a musical called Label•Less.

Taniya Nayak

An interior designer and TV personality known for shows like The Great Christmas Light Fight and Battle on the Beach, who grew up with a love of art and design influenced by her architect father.

Brooke Hogan

A musician and design firm owner who is competing against Lachey and Nayak on Rock the Block.

Vernon Davis

A former NFL player and Super Bowl champion who is also an artist and is competing on Rock the Block.

Jonathan Knight

A member of the boy band New Kids on the Block, who previously competed on Rock the Block and offered Lachey and Nayak advice.

Jordan Knight

Another member of New Kids on the Block, who also previously competed on Rock the Block and offered Lachey and Nayak advice.

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What they’re saying

“'Look, the truth is I grew up with New Kids on the Block. That doesn't mean I wasn't a fan of 98 Degrees. I am. But I'm also a Boston girl, so in all fairness, it just is what it is.'”

— Taniya Nayak, Interior Designer and TV Personality

“'See what I have to put up with?'”

— Drew Lachey, 98 Degrees Musician

“'My fandom has shifted towards Drew. He's now my number one. Sorry New Kids!'”

— Taniya Nayak, Interior Designer and TV Personality

“'Going out with Taniya is a whole different level. I don't know if I have the stamina to live at that level.'”

— Drew Lachey, 98 Degrees Musician

“'They said to think about the big picture and remember it's for TV, so make sure that you're still entertaining and being good TV personalities. They're awesome guys—down-to-earth, cool and chill.'”

— Drew Lachey, 98 Degrees Musician

What’s next

Lachey and Nayak will continue their partnership as they take Lachey's musical 'Label•Less' off-Broadway in New York City this summer, with Lachey serving as the head carpenter and scenic designer.

The takeaway

The collaboration between the 98 Degrees star and the interior designer showcases the synergy between the music and design industries, as well as the importance of finding common ground and camaraderie even among competitive reality show contestants.