While it wasn’t rare for a musician to perform during a one-on-one date on The Bachelorette Australia, the talent was usually quite, ahem, underground.
Which is exactly why it’s such a shocker to discover that International pop star Dua Lipa serenaded Georgia Love and her date Clancy Ryan on the dating show back in 2016.
The mind-boggling performance was dug up by the Shameless podcast, and they even shared a clip of Lipa’s scene.
“I cannot believe that Dua Lipa was on the Georgia Love season of The Bachelorette which doesn’t even feel like that long ago,” Annabelle said.
Was Dua Lipa famous when she performed on The Bachelorette Australia?
Lipa was certainly not a household name back in 2016. At the time the scene was filmed, she was opening Troye Sivian’s Australian tour.
Although Lipa was signed to Warner Music Group in 2015, she didn’t release her self-titled debut album until June 2017. The album featured some of her biggest hits, including Be the One, IDGAF and New Rules.
The Bachelorette. Ten.
Is The Bachelorette Australia still on?
The Bachelorette Australia ran for seven seasons but was retired in 2021 after Brooke Blurton’s season.
The Bachelor Australia is still being produced, however, in recent years it’s had a bit of a switch up. Last year, the show was renamed The Bachelors and three leads were cast.
While the ratings weren’t exactly phenomenal, Channel 10 has embraced the new format and has cast three more Bachelors for the upcoming season.
An ungrateful Australian couple who won the $4.2 million The Block house that Adrian Portelli purchased at auction have sent him a large bill for missing extras.
Adrian Portelli, otherwise known as Lambo Guy, famously started a bidding war on Oz and Omar’s house which sold for a whopping $5.586 million on The Block 2022. He later purchased Sharon and Ankur’s after auction for $4.2 million.
Portelli used the latter house as the prize for a competition he was running for his company, and Victorian couple Kevin and Andrea Griffin won.
Sharon and Ankur’s The Block House. Domain.
However, not content with the multi-million dollar mansion, the Griffins have complained that there are missing extras from the “fully-furnished house” and sent Portelli a $100k bill for them.
The best bit for those of us who love reality TV mess? Portelli shared a video of the Griffins complaining about the missing decor and furniture and posted it to IG for our perusal.
You can watch the saga play out on Instagram reels below:
The videos show the Griffins complaining about items that had been removed from the house, which could be put down to them being avid fans of The Block and simply noticing the difference.
However, the plot thicks, because Herald Sun published a CCTV video of Portelli removing items from the house, which led the Griffins to comment and send him a bill for $102,000.
“We were just like, what the hell?” Ms Griffin said after seeing the footage. “Why has he done this?”
Kevin and Andrea Griffin. LCMT+/Jason Edwards.
Adrian Portelli defended his choice to remove the items
Portelli explained that the terms and conditions of the competition stipulated that the winner would receive a fully furnished house, which they did.
“It came fully furnished with hundreds of thousands of dollars of items, however, apparently there’s hundreds of items missing,” he said on Instagram.
“The Block contestants do receive many items from sponsors that aren’t included,” he continued. “So in the shed, there were a lot of items like a treadmill, the wine the contestants won, there were toolboxes etc.
“But yes, we did take a few items. What I do with these items is completely up to me – whether I choose to use them to stage future giveaway houses, or I simply use them personally.”
What was removed from The Block house?
Portelli shared the bill he was sent by the Griffins for the missing items. Amongst them were books, a fruit bowl and tea towels.
Adrian Portelli. Facebook.
The Block continues on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. on Channel 9 and 9Now.
The Amazing Race Australia host Beau Ryan might have casually just dropped a comment about who will be hosting I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out OfHere during episode three, and it looked suspiciously like a HUGE easter egg.
When Darren McMullen and his nephew Tristan Dougan approached the Check Point, Ryan made small talk with the person in the traditional Indian Kathakali costume standing beside him at the finish line.
“Who do you think they’ll get to host I’m a Celebrity next year? Who do you reckon they’ll partner with Julia?” Beau asked his sidekick before the camera panned back to McMullen’s arrival.
The Amazing Race. Ten.
Is that why Darren McMullen was so upset about his nose piercing?
In the episode, McMullen and his nephew were winning the race after the detour and were given the option to do a Fast Forward. (A Fast Forward lets the contestants do a separate challenge from the rest of the group, and if they complete it they can skip both main challenges.)
“That’s marking my money maker,” he told his nephew.
“This is so dumb,” McMullen continued complaining. “That’s my career over. That’s the sound of me losing multiple jobs because of this stupid idea. What have I done?”
Could McMullen be referring to his hosting job on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here? We certainly think so!
Beau Ryan confirms he’s out of the running for the gig
Another contender for the I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here hosting job could be Beau Ryan, given that he’s presented a lot of Network 10 shows, and is the face of the upcoming Gladiators series.
“I can’t be assed. I gotta go home, man. I’m waiting for [a producer] to tell me I’m doing it, so I’m trying not to see her. If they say: “See you in Africa”, my life is over!”
“We’ll see what happens,” he added cryptically.
Beau Ryan. Instagram.
Why are the hosts of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here changing?
After co-hosting I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here Australia alongside Julia Morris since its inception in 2015, Dr Chris Brown announced that he was leaving Network 10 in February 2023.
He has signed a two-year deal with Network 7 to work on two different projects.
Soooo, the co-host position with Julia Morris is up for grabs… and it looks as though McMullen might have nabbed it.
Catch the full chat with Beau Ryan with The Entertainment Hotline Podcast below:
The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition airs on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. on 10 and 10Play.
It’s episode three of The Amazing RaceAustralia 2023 and the entire episode can be described in a single word: chaos.
The stunning state of Kerala in India was the destination for the nine remaining teams in the third leg. At the start, Harry Jowsey and Teddy Briggs trailed behind Emma ‘Wiggle’ Watkins and her sister Hayley, discussing their love for the classic tune Hot Potato, while Angie Simpson charmed taxi drivers with kisses in exchange for discounted rides.
Challenge and detours
Upon reaching the Detour, our celebrity contestants were faced with a choice: painting a tiger on a local’s belly or participating in a traditional kids’ game at the sports ground.
The Amazing Race. Seven.
Angie and Alli Simpson conquered the painting challenge with enthusiasm while Darren McMullen and Tristan Dougan and Harry and Teddy chose the game.
The two male teams finished first and both decided to attempt the Fast Forward option. However, only one team could complete it, leaving the other to tackle the Road Block with the remaining racers.
Tristan and Darren made it to the Road Block first and had to pierce their noses and wear traditional jewellery. Tristan took the news like a champ. While Darren was initially reluctant to do the piercing, he finally caved “for the kids” of the charity he’s supporting.
The Amazing Race. Seven.
Being the first team to complete the Fast Forward, the freshly pierced duo advanced directly to the Pitstop, leaving Harry and Teddy scrambling to face the Road Block.
At the Road Block, one team member had to learn how to drive a Tuk Tuk at the local driving school. Jana Pittman swiftly gave her 16-year-old son some tips on the difference between manual and automatic vehicles, but it took a few failed attempts and words of encouragement from his mum before he succeeded.
Unfortunately, disaster struck when Cor Pittman realized he left his bag behind during their car journey to the next challenge, forcing the team to turn back. This setback would go down as one of the biggest in Race history.
Meanwhile, George Mladenov discovered the forgotten bag back at the Tuk Tuk challenge and had a choice: bring it to Cor or leave it. Being the strategic player he is, George decided to leave the bag, realizing it could potentially give him and Pam Mladenov a chance to escape last place.
The Amazing Race. Seven.
Challenge Two and the Pit Stop
Finally, the teams had to devour their way through a bowl of 30 bananas until they found a blue one. Psychic-medium Jackie Gillies managed to manifest a blue banana with her powers, acing the challenge on her first try. However, George and Pam weren’t so lucky and went through a whopping 24 bananas before they stumbled across the blue one.
By this point, Darren and Tristan had reached the Pit Stop and took out first place.
The Amazing Race. Seven.
Back at the competition grounds, after collecting their lost bag, Jana and Cor arrived and successfully completed the banana challenge in just seven attempts. However, in their excitement to board the boat, they forgot their bags… AGAIN!
The final showdown was between Jana and Cor and George and Pam in a boat race. Unfortunately, George and Pam finished last, but to their surprise, it was a non-elimination leg. King George is saved once again.
It’s episode three of SAS Australia 2023 and during the first task of the day, the 10 remaining recruits confronted their fear of heights to rappel 50 metres from an abandoned tower before infiltrating a window to complete a rescue.
Anthony Mundine’s lacklustre display left the DS unimpressed. They then called him in for a grillin’, and in that hot seat, Mundine unleashed his disappointment over not making the cut for the Kangaroos squad and the system that tried to silence his outspoken views.
“I was an NRL player and NRL is a brutal sport. I debuted in 1993 when I was 18 years old. I was only a skinny kid. And I was carvin’ up, but I felt like I wasn’t getting the accolades. If I was a white fella …”
Anthony Mundine. Seven
When asked by DS Ant Middleton if he believed his non-selection came down to race, he said:
“One hundred per cent! 1999 was one of my best years. At the end of that year, they were taking a tour to England. Don’t know if it was the World Cup. But they were taking 42 men to go on this tour. I was the best player in the league. No doubt.
“The Australian coach said I didn’t get picked because of my ‘off-field characteristics’. I don’t drink, I don’t smoke, never took drugs in my life. But I’m very outspoken. They just wanted to show me they were in power. You do what we say and then you’ll see some fruits.
“They didn’t pick me and that crushed me. Devastated me. Ripped my heart out, basically. I was playing from a young age. I should have been picked. You ask any of my peers who played in 1999. Should I get picked? One hundred per cent of them would say yes.’’
The second task and Stephanie Rice’s interrogation
In the second task of the day, the recruits went through live grenade training, infiltrating a building under heavy fire.
Stephanie’s not-so-graceful dive into the sand left her shoulder dislocated. Luckily, a quick visit to the on-course medic resulted in a shoulder pop and a trip to the hospital for some X-rays.
Stephanie Rice. Seven
After receiving a clean bill of health and vowing to get back on track, Stephanie revealed the disappointment of the 2012 London Olympics, admitting her current sense of loneliness and lack of purpose in life.
“When I think about failure. I think about the London Olympics. Everything went wrong, I got injured. I tore the tendon in my shoulder eight months before the London Olympics. I didn’t have time to repair it. I just trained on it torn for eight months. I was disappointed things didn’t align the way I knew they could have,” she said.
“I really struggled. I felt really lost after I finished swimming. I didn’t feel like I had any purpose or any direction. And I didn’t feel like anybody understood.”
It’s episode 39 of The Block 2023 and I’m tired. Also, the Blockheads probably are at this point too…
Besides renovating, they’re tired of each other which has been made a lot worse given that Woman’s Day, New Idea, Who Weekly and TV Week came to visit and published interviews they had with the contestants…
But before we dive into that drama, Steph and Gian have now made $90k in just two weeks, meaning they can now make all of their bathrooms “consistent”, which Steph is keen to see what the judges think.
Okay, back to the mags.
It turns out, Leah and Ash “have been chatting some crap” and Brett and Kristy are NOT happy. Lel.
EXHIBIT A
Nine.
EXHIBIT B
Nine.
Meanwhile…
EXHIBIT C
Nine.
Possibly the best part of this whole thing was seeing all the builders joining in on the goss. But the worst?! Now Leah and Kristy hate each other even more. Cool cool.
Since the interviews were held a full two weeks prior, Leah is now at the point where she just wants everything to be OK, and tries to make amends. However, Kristy hates her more than ever now, so there’s that.
The 3D Fence and Brett’s mischievous plan
In other — and possibly better — news, Leah and Ash are in talks with Block architect Julian Brenchley to create a special 3D-printed fence that will have all of Charming St talking.
Meanwhile, Brett has also decided on a master plan.
He wants to swap his backyard and front yard in the judging so that the pool — which is clearly a backyard feature in any home — becomes part of front yard week… lol.
Firstly, WTAFand secondly… is this fair? Probably not.
Brett calls a body corporate and his cheeky as plan appears to get it through, despite Leah being wary. He then tries to convince the other Blockheads there’s nothing more to what he’s proposing when in actual fact, he just wants a free Ford Mustang.
Brett. Nine
Brett and Kristy in the middle of drama again?! How surprising!
Want more recaps? Check out our The Block 2023 recaps below!
When it comes to social media, Harry Jowsey and Teddy Briggs are one of the most high-profile teams on The Amazing Race Australia 2023.
On the show, Harry is touted as the mega-star, while Teddy is relegated to being his ‘friend’ in the show titles. However, Teddy was actually part of a very popular Australian reality TV show.
Who is Harry Jowsey?
Harry Jowsey appeared in season one of Netflix’s Too Hot To Handle back in 2020 and has racked up a hefty amount of followers ever since. He currently has 4.2 million followers on Instagram and 4.7 million on TikTok.
He joined OnlyFans in February 2021 and has spoken publicly about the huge amount of money he’s made on the adult subscription platform.
In an interview with KIIS 106.5’s Summer Breakfast last December, the reality TV star said he earns “a couple of hundred thousand a month” on OF.
“I know I was the highest-earning male on there for a while,” he added.
He’s currently competing on the US iteration of Dancing With The Stars, and is up against a bevy of big names including Vanderpump Rules legend Ariana Madix and American Pie star Alyson Hannigan.
The jury is still out on whether Harry is single at the moment. The 26-year-old has recently sparked rumours that he’s dating his 18-year-old DWTS partner Rylee Arnold.
The two were spotted holding hands leaving Tate McRae’s concert in Los Angeles, and have been very affectionate to each other in TikTok videos.
Harry is no stranger to a high-profile romance, he has previously dated his Too Hot To Handle co-stars Francesca Farago and Georgia Hassarati.
Who is Teddy Briggs?
Teddy Briggs has mostly been presented as Harry’s ‘best friend’, however, the Adelaide model actually has a background in reality TV too. He starred in season one of Love Island Australia in 2018 and entered the villa as a bombshell.
Teddy entered the villa on day 21 and was paired up with Edyn Mackney, Francoise Draschler and Millie Fuller during his time on the show. Teddy and Edyn got back together on day 36 but were dumped from the villa the next day.
Is Teddy Briggs single?
He is! Teddy regularly posts thirst traps on social media, and no significant other is anywhere to be seen. Slide into those DMs at your own risk!
The Amazing Race Australia airs on Wednesday and Thursday nights on Channel 10 & 10Play at 7.30pm.
“We found that some [of last year’s] cast was maybe a little bit introverted,” McWilliams said, “And so many other couples had to do more of the heavy lifting, whereas this year, we needed people that were going to be straight up from the very beginning. They were going to embrace it and going to wear their heart on their sleeve, be themselves and be authentic.”
Love Triangle. Stan.
As well as scouting for outspoken individuals, Walsh said that they had other goals when casting the season.
“Our learnings were showing more of the diversity of people out there that are doing modern-day dating. There’s no point putting six lonely hearts that have tried everything and they get rejected because that’s not true. That’s not indicative of what’s going on out there.”
What is the twist on Love Triangle season two?
The premise of Love Triangle is that a number of singles must chat with two potential matches over text, before meeting up with their favourite. Those two will then move in together for six weeks to see if they can make their connection work.
Love Triangle. Stan.
However, last year’s twist saw the rejected texter move in with the happy couple.
“In the first series, the twist was that the second the rejected person comes in and forms a triangle,” McWilliams said. “Obviously, that’s no longer a surprise to them coming into this series, so we’ve brought in a new twist, something that would challenge them even further.
Many fans are predicting that the unchosen match won’t be moving in anymore, however, McWilliams hints otherwise.
“It’s not a twist. It’s like a twist. It’s something that we felt organically that fits really well. It’s an extension of what we’ve already done and it really had very quite controversial results.”
“There’s a twist that was planned and then there’s a bombshell within the twist that we hadn’t anticipated,” he said before McWilliams joked: “You basically have to watch with a calculator!”
Content warning: This article about Craig McLachlan references suicide and may be triggering to some readers.
Gold Logie winner Craig McLachlan has opened up about his indecent assault trial which dominated headlines over the past few years.
The actor is currently competing in SAS Australia, and during an interrogation in episode two, he reflected on the trial and discussed the turmoil he experienced as a result.
SAS Australia. Seven.
“Talk about panic. On that morning, January 8 2018, I woke up to phones ringing,” he said in an emotional piece-to-camera.
“The news was everywhere: ‘He’s a monster, he’s a bully, he’s a calculated predator.’ It’s too easy to ruin your life like that.”
In 2018, McLachlan was accused of seven counts of indecent assault and six of common law assault made against him by four women who starred alongside him in the stage production of Rocky Horror Show in 2014. He pleaded not guilty and was cleared of all the charges in 2020.
Craig McLachlan on the emotional toll the charges took
Despite being acquitted of the charges, McLachlan says his tattered public image has affected his mental health.
“At the time these allegations were broadcast, where I ultimately found myself in the darkest place imaginable,” he said during a piece-to-camera on SAS Australia
“I was sadly contemplating the unimaginable. And I made a decision to do something … and I’ll just say that, in my haste, a miscalculation basically meant that I … ah … managed to get up out of bed that next day and keep soldiering on.”
SAS Australia. Seven.
Craig McLachlan stressed that he was innocent
McLachlan shared his frustration about his public media trial.
“I was found not guilty of any wrongful behaviour, it’s because I was f***ing innocent,” he said. “I have been profoundly hurt so there’s always going to be some residual anger.”
“I suffer extreme social anxiety,” he said. “I’m more anxious about being in a new group of people than I am about climbing up the side of a mountain. I know that sounds bizarre, but for me, I’m afraid it’s true.”
If you or someone you know is in distress and needs more information, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.
Popular comedian and TV personality Cal Wilson has died, she was aged 53.
Her passing was confirmed by her management to News.com.au, who issued a statement and said she was surrounded by family and friends when she died at Sydney’s Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.
“We are devastated to share the news that Cal Wilson, the much-loved stand-up comedian, writer and actor died today, surrounded by family and friends after a short illness at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney,” the statement read.
“Cal’s generosity, talent and friendship have been constants in the Australian comedy scene for the last twenty years. Cal was loved by her family, friends, fans and peers and a huge hole has been torn in the heart of our community.
“Originally from Christchurch, New Zealand, Cal moved to Melbourne in 2003 to star in the sketch show, Skithouse. She went on to become one of Australia’s best-known comedians with appearances on Spicks and Specks, Good News Week, Would I Lie To You and in her own Netflix stand-up special.”
A statement was also issued by Wendy Moore, who is the Group General Manager of Lifestyle at Foxtel Group.
“We are all completely devastated to lose such an amazing, vibrant person,” she said. “Cal joined our Bake Off cast last year and instantly brought her unique sparkle to the show.
“Her professionalism, work ethic and genuine heart-warming humour instantly made her a favourite amongst cast and crew, as well as the Australian audience. We will all miss her so much, and our hearts go out to her family and friends.”
Wilson was born in New Zealand and starred on many Australian TV shows. She was a contestant on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Outta Here in 2018 and has appeared on Have You Been Paying Attention?, Dancing with the Stars and The Great Australian Bake Off, among others.
Wilson is survived by her son, Digby and her husband, Chris.
It’s episode 7 of Shark Tank Australia 2023 and the Sharks were blown away by a pitch of a kid’s vehicle that also satisfies the parent’s needs. However, one pitch was fed to the Sharks but received no bites.
Here’s what happened during the episode.
Pitch #1 – 35MM CO
The Product
23-year-old Madi Stefanis pitched a nostalgic film camera called 35MM CO, aimed at late teens and 20-somethings in a variety of colours.
The Investment Wish
$300,000 for 10% equity.
Offer Accepted
Sharks RobertHerjavec and Jane Lu settled for a shared $300,000 for 17.5% equity.
Pitch #2 – Nevabuds
The Product
Nevada Smith presented Nevabuds, earbuds with a magnetic clip that clips together, helping users to never lose them.
The Investment Wish
$28,000 for 40% equity.
Offer Accepted
AI guru Catriona Wallace invested $28,000 for a 49% stake in the business.
Pitch #3 – Burleigh Wagon
The ProductRegan and Nathan pitched the most “souped up and pimped out” beach wagon called The Burleigh Wagon. It is a beach vehicle for days out with kids and includes an esky, surfboard rack and USB speaker.
The Investment Wish
$450,000 investment for 10% equity of the business
Offer Accepted
Davie Fogarty secured 25% equity for $450,000, plus a $10 royalty until the money is paid back.
It’s episode two of SAS Australia 2023 and the 13 remaining recruits face a dangerous run-and-jump extraction drill, jumping into coastal waters before scaling 10 metres to a hovering Black Hawk helicopter – which is an absolute no from me.
During the drill, disaster strikes for retired NRL star Boyd Cordner who suffered an excruciating pectoral tear before revealing the anguish of early retirement to thwart the onset of CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy).
“I had days there where I’d break down crying. Just being in the media nearly every day at that time and everyone knowing your business, it was, yeah, it was all a bit too much for me.”
“At the end of the day, it was my decision. I didn’t know what the next head knock would bring. It’s quite a scary thought when you think about the long-term effects that concussion or TBIs [traumatic brain injuries] could have.”
Boyd was then forced to medically withdraw because unlike Jason during episode one (lol), Boyd had actual reasons to leave. In fact, Dr Dan revealed that his injury would soon require surgery and further tasks could cause permanent damage.
Boyd Cordner and Dr Dan. Seven
Lindy Klim and Cassie Sainsbury VW
As the course begins to take its toll on everyone, “Balinese Princess” LindyKlim, in a burst of honesty, chooses to VW (voluntarily withdraw). She revealed that the selection process demanded more physical strength than she could muster.
“I did think I would really struggle being completely out of my comfort zone. I hate being dirty, and I hate sand and I hate camping. I feel quite chuffed that I managed to get through two days, so yeah I feel good.”
Then, during a nail-biting experiment to conquer panic within a treacherous maze of underwater pipelines, Cassie Sainsbury, the notorious drug smuggler, found herself in the hot seat and ended up being the third candidate to throw in the towel at VW.
Cassie Sainsbury and Ant Middleton. Seven
“It is probably one of the first times in a long time that I feel proud of myself in the sense of facing everything I didn’t ever want to see again,” she said. “When I leave the SAS course ‘Cocaine Cassie’ dies there. That’s it. She doesn’t follow me around anymore.”
Craig Challen’s interrogation
With his unparalleled expertise in navigating tight, submerged tunnels, Craig Challen, the heroic Thai cave rescuer, fearlessly took on the challenge of entering the pipeline. However, even with his impressive qualifications, he made the fateful mistake of going face down instead of face up in search of the crucial air pocket.
Later, during his interrogation, he recounted the story behind the historic saving of 13 lives and how it made him feel.
“To get all of them out at the end, yeah, it’s just like the weight of the world has been lifted off your shoulders. To have a one hundred per cent success rate and all of them out alive, even as I sit here today, I still can’t really believe that it worked out that well.”
It’s episode 38 of The Block 2023 and we’re now in the final weeks of the reno. This week, the Blockheads are tackling another guest bathroom plus a redo room.
The teams receive $10k for each makeover and given Marty Fox has had A LOT to say about most of the reno’ed spaces, they have many options to work with.
Meanwhile, Kyle and Leslie are having a tough start to the week after the negative feedback they received during the Kid’s Room Reveal.
Thankfully, ~most~ of the teams decided to come to the rescue, showering love on House #1’s kids’ spaces during the Domain Open for Inspection.
During the Ford Getaway, Scott and Rachel and Ryan from last year’s series join Steph and Gian for dinner. In a heartfelt moment, Steph talks about her initial struggles on The Block when Kristy and Leah teamed up to spread gossip and cause trouble behind her back.
Rachel and Ryan. Nine
While it did sting, Rachel and Ryan, tell her to focus on her own journey and win that money, honey!
Following the getaway, Steph receives some devastating news from home – her grandfather, who migrated from Greece, was gravely ill after a fall.
While during the show he hadn’t passed away, Steph’s family were forced to remove his oxygen which was a “bit of a shock” because he’d been doing so well.
With this and the pressure of being far from her family, she began to feel a bit “disconnected”; however, all of the Blockheads, including Kristy, rallied around her.
Steph. The Block
Eliza and Liberty change hands…again
After letting go of their builders early on in the season, Eliza and Liberty parted ways with their landscaper who didn’t want their “brand” to suffer any damage by being associated with The Block. Ooft.
The sisters only had $40,000 for landscaping, which wasn’t enough to create magic and the green thumbs didn’t want a bar of it.
Later on, their house, which has become the local hangout spot for the Blockheads, saw Leah and Ash, Kyle and Leslie, Steph and Gian, and Eliza and Liberty spend time together. Unsurprisingly, there’s one couple missing from the party – Kristy and Brett.
After weeks of drama, they find themselves completely out of the group.
Want more recaps? Check out our The Block 2023 recaps below!
Ant Middleton leads a team of directing staff on SAS Australia 2023 who put the contestants through the wringer over a series of challenges and courses.
But who exactly are the DS and what makes them qualified to test the celebs?
Welp, it turns out that the DS on SAS Australia this year are very certified, and have a tonne of experience in the military themselves.
“Jay and Staz. I’ve served with both. They’re the new generation, like myself, super current with combat experience of Iraq and Afghanistan,” Ant said in an interview with Chattr.
Ant Middleton joined the armed forces at just 16 and had a fruitful career in the UK’s elite forces, including the Marines, 9 Parachute Squadron, and Special Boat Service.
Ant excelled in the military and landed a spot on the coveted SAS Special Forces Selection.
After spending more than a decade in the military, Ant made his TV debut on the UK version of SAS: Who Dares Wins in 2015.
Since then, he went on to host SAS Australia since the show premiered in 2020. He’s also recently had a gig hosting Million Dollar Island Australia.
Ollie Ollerton
SAS Australia. Seven.
Ollie Olerton began his military career at age 18 and he worked for five years as a commando in in Northern Ireland and Iraq for Operation Desert Storm. He was then recommended for SAS Special Forces Selection and was one of the 250 candidates who made it through the gruelling six-month selection process.
Ollie spent six years working in the Special Boat Service where he handled missions regarding counter-narcotics, counter-terrorism, homeland security, and humanitarian work.
Since retiring from the special forces, Ollie founded BreakPoint, a program where he provides leadership and development courses to the corporate and public sector that leverages the special forces mindset.
Jamie “Jay” Morton
SAS Australia. Seven.
Jamie “Jay” Morton, a highly experienced former SAS operator, has an impressive 14 years of military service. For 10 years, he served in the UK Special Forces, and for four years, he was part of the Parachute Regiment.
Jamie is not only a trained military mountain guide but also a DSV ski teacher. His expertise allows him to lead both tactical and non-tactical expeditions in challenging mountainous environments around the globe. Jamie has conquered some of the highest peaks, including two successful summits of Mount Everest.
Anthony “Staz” Stazicker
SAS Australia. Seven.
Anthony “Staz” Stazicker has an impressive military career spanning 13 years and was honored with the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross for his valiant combat actions in 2013.
Exiting the UK Special Forces in 2018, he went on to establish ThruDark, a leading British high-performance outerwear brand prized for its technical clothing.
SAS Australia 2023 airs on Monday and Tuesday nights at 7.30 pm on 7 and 7Plus.
The Real Housewives of Sydney veteran Krissy Marsh is back for season two of the show, and she said that everything feels more “real” this time around.
Speaking to Chattr, the mum of two said that the women cast in season one weren’t her friends, so the fallout from fights in season two was “difficult”.
“These are real friendships and it’s real emotions,” she said. “It’s real sadness if someone disappoints you or lets you down,”
“For me, it’s real. It’s very difficult when you do have a falling out or you do have a disagreement.”
Real Housewives of Sydney. Binge.
Krissy Marsh on the cat fights that’ll take place
Marsh explained that the strong friendships many of the housewives shared prior to filming means that the fights in the upcoming season hit hard.
“I think [it] makes it even harder because they are my friends. It’s very difficult when you do have a falling out or you do have a disagreement,” she said.
The Sydney socialite added that for that reason she prides herself on not stooping low when it comes to arguing with her castmates.
“I literally would be sitting there like this going, “Honey, I could say this, this, this and this right now, but I’m not going to do that because I don’t do that in real life. So, what I try and do is do what I would do in real life. That’s who I am. And that’s what you’ll see.”
Real Housewives of Sydney. Binge.
What can fans expect in the upcoming season?
According to Marsh, it’s “female empowerment”.
“This time it’s a lot about women supporting women,” she said.
“I also think that the emotions, like especially if someone praises you as well — it’s not all just negative,” she added. So, I think there’s going to be a lot of issues that are discussed. Really important issues.”
The Real Housewives Of Sydney premieres on Binge on October 10 with new episodes released weekly.
SAS Australia 2023 has some very controversial contestants in the mix, including a convicted drug smuggler and an actor acquitted of assault charges.
So when it comes to the celebrity selection, how do casting producers decide who to invite to the show?
During an interview on Mediaweek and Chattr’sThe Entertainment Hotline Podcast, host Ant Middleton revealed that celebs with a troubled past are sought out, in the hope that they can receive a “platform to tell their story”.
“Trial by media is becoming worse and worse at the moment, and people are really pushing back against it. So there’s no better time than now to come on and tell your side of the story. Give us the true you,” Middleton said.
“Even if the media trial was right, want to find out who you are now and if you’ve changed.”
SAS Australia. Seven.
Ant Middleton said controversial celebrities should be held accountable
Middleton said that while some celebrities have the opportunity to clear their name on SAS Australia, the pendulum swings the other way for those who don’t come clean.
“We know if they’re lying,” he said. “It’s in their best interest to be completely honest and open and hold themselves accountable. Because if they don’t, then they’re in for a rude awakening, we will shred them to pieces.”
Middleton added that SAS Australia helps to teach the contestants some valuable emotional lessons.
“If they’re gonna lie to us then and they’re lying to themselves and they’re living a lie, then that needs also to be exposed.”
SAS Australia. Seven.
Ant Middleton on the celebrities who will make it to the end
Middleton dished about the kind of celebrities who tend to go further in SAS Australia – and it’s not who you’d typically think.
While Middleton touched on the importance of physical strength he stressed that mental resilience plays a massive part in whether someone can successfully complete the military course.
“It’s surprising the viewers I would say because we don’t judge,” he said, explaining that the strongest celebrities on SAS Australia 2023 won’t necessarily be the most successful.
“It’s the same in the actual selection process you get some of the biggest toughest soldiers in the world and you think you’re up against him, you think ‘oh, there’s one place gone already’. And they crumble within a couple of days, a couple of weeks and they’re gone,” he added.
“When you look at the end of selection where there’s only like 10 of you left. And we come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. You got your six-foot-tall lanky geezer and you’ve got your little round tubby guy that you think has eaten all the pies.”
SAS Australia 2023 airs on Monday and Tuesday nights at 7.30 pm on 7 and 7Plus.
It’s episode 37 of The Block and time for the Kid’s room reveals. But before we could catch a glimpse of any of the renos, here’s what happened during the episode.
The Blockheads are in a frenzy, racing against the clock for some last-minute shopping before the big reveal of two magnificent kids’ rooms.
Steph, haunted by the past critique from the judges when she and Gian veered off the brief in the house decider challenge, has been plagued with doubts all week.
Meanwhile, Leslie and Liberty team up for a shopping spree, leaving Steph feeling a bit left out and ignored. Leslie then explains that she’s tired of what she perceives as a one-sided friendship with Steph.
Steph. Nine
Max and Charlie Cress, the kids of Julian Cress, the executive producer of The Block eagerly survey the kid’s rooms. There are some jaw-dropping statement pieces, like Leah and Ash’s epic rock climbing wall and Steph and Gian’s envy-inducing swinging chair.
Enter Scotty Cam, announcing “tools down.”
Despite their exhaustion, all five couples manage to unveil some truly stunning rooms.
As judging commences, Scott reveals another surprise: special guest judges Olive and Freddie Fox. Yup, Marty Fox’s kids.
The Fox family. Nine
Joining them in HQ is Marty Fox, who somehow manages to maintain an awkward presence while watching the contestants receive his feedback. Lel
Room Reveals
Kyle and Leslie – $16,743
Kyle and Leslie put in some serious elbow grease, but alas, not everyone was showering them with praise.
The judges had a bone to pick with their basketball-themed boy’s room, claiming it’s a bit “niche”.
In terms of the upstairs planning, there were headshakes all around.
Surprisingly, one of the kids’ rooms outshone the “master” bedroom and poor Leslie’s spirits took a beating as she was bombarded with more negative feedback.
It’s safe to say, she’s reached her breaking point.
Leah and Ash – 21,912
The judges loved the amazing kids’ rooms with Darren loving the bold style of the Grafico wallpaper.
Marty couldn’t resist the super cool climbing wall, a smash hit while the second room, complete with a disco ball and stage, was seriously impressive.
The only critique was the choice of a day bed. The judges were left scratching their heads, wondering why Leah and Ash didn’t go for a regular single bed.
But hey, overall the feedback was incredibly positive!
Kristy and Brett – $25,580
The Adelaide couple stirred up some controversy with their daring design choices.
The bold Gafico wallpaper in the second room was quite polarizing, but in the end, all three judges couldn’t resist its charm.
However, Brett’s paintwork could have used some improvement in certain areas but despite that, their overall performance was a success!
Steph and Gian – $25,580
Steph and Gian hit it out of the park with their incredible room designs!
The judges were blown away, giving them perfect 10s across the board.
Not only did they impress the judges, but they also raked in a whopping $40,000 in just one night.
Eliza and Liberty – $13,217
Eliza and Liberty knocked it out of the park with their show-stopping efforts!
The judges were blown away by their room designs, which were guaranteed to win over any buyer.
Marty couldn’t help but nitpick about the lighting in one room but all in all, a truly fantastic showcase of talent and creativity!
Scoring
Steph and Gian took out the win with a perfect score of 30!
Meanwhile, Leah and Ash were awarded a gnome for their favourite room by the kids.
Darren
Shaynna
Marty
Total
Kyle and Leslie
8.5
8
7.5
24
Leah and Ash
9.5
9.5
9
28
Kristy and Brett
9.5
9.5
8.5
27.5
Steph and Gian
10
10
10
30
Eliza and Liberty
9.5
9
8
26.5
Want more recaps? Check out our The Block 2023 recaps below!
It’s episode one of SAS Australia 2023 and because the DS love torture, 14 new celebrity recruits were sandblasted by a hovering Black Hawk helicopter on arrival before being buried alive for 45 minutes. Cool.
New recruit Cassie Sainsbury aka “Cocaine Cassie”was also traumatised for another reason as the exercise was a triggering reminder of prison life.
“You’re not in prison,” she repeated to herself, breaking down. “This is all so similar to jail.”
Sensing her distress, the DS called her in for questioning in the Mirror Room.
“I spent three years in a Columbian jail, and it’s all just very triggering,” she said. “I’m trying to deal with it as it comes. But it’s not easy. I feel like I’ve entered back into one of the yards there. Even the way that we eat food, and the way we sleep. The guards there are very much the same. They yell at us, we’re a number.”
Cassie then revealed she wanted to leave the “Cocaine Cassie” moniker behind now that the days of living in Colombia’s El Buen Pastor prison were behind her.
“I finished my sentence; I did my time. I paid the price. And I’m trying to move on with my life. I’m not the same person I was nearly seven years ago. I’m not Cocaine Cassie. I’m just Cassie.”
The First Task
Paired recruits boarded a moving train to recover a mission-essential item hidden inside a military cache. Once secured, they escaped the train to a designated extraction point. To pass the task, all had to be completed within three minutes.
After enduring day one on the course, AFL legend Jason Akermanis sought out the chief medic, Doctor Dan, complaining about his achy foot.
Following an examination, Dr Dan found no valid reason to grant a medical discharge; but even though he no longer had that option, Jason decided to voluntarily withdraw (VW).
“I’ve got out exactly what I would hope to get out of it. I didn’t leave injured, ah, that injured. I’m a bit sore but not that injured. And I don’t need to come on a course like this and prove anything else to anyone else”.
Jason Akermanis. Seven
Craig McLachlan’s interrogation
Actor Craig McLachlan found himself face-to-face with DS Ant Middleton and Jay Morton in the mirror room, ready to bare it all.
The duo grilled him about the 16 criminal charges that haunted him ever since his role as Dr Frankenfurter in the Rocky Horror Show back in 2014.
“As a performer, when you sign on for that show, you’re signing up for the fetish nature of it, the comedy,” he said. “During the rehearsal process, you’re in close quarters, you’re trying out new gags, you’re touching each other, not inappropriately, not within the parameters of what that show is.”
“I was found not guilty of any wrongful behaviour. It’s because I was f*cking innocent,” he yelled before being DS Ant told him to calm down.
“I’ve been profoundly hurt. So, you know there’s always going to be some residual anger.”
“People who only months before looked me in the eye and said ‘you create the most wonderful work environments imaginable’…abandonment, total abandonment. A tiny handful of courageous people I’ve had friendships with over thirty years were always there, but the vast majority, gone.”
SAS Australia 2023 continues on Monday and Tuesday nights at 7.30 pm on 7 and 7Plus.
It’s episode five of The Masked Singer and in a galactic twist, Space Fairy was revealed as a reality TV darling.
Despite an out-of-this-world performance of Meghan Trainor’sLips Are Movin’, the stunning green celestial creature’s identity was unmasked.
Before her unveiling, the alien had the guessing panel captivated; however, their guesses of Marcia Hines, Jesy Nelson, Joss Stone and Mary J Blige were off the mark.
“You’re telling me you think I was that good? I’ve never sung in front of anyone in my life!” Crosby said after taking off her mask.
In another twist, it turns out Crosby was meant to compete in 2023 before COVID-19 upended the entire world. On top of this, she was then relegated to spending a whole month in quarantine, which saw her relationship at the time end.
But, as fate would have it, it was all meant to be, because if it wasn’t for the show and that bloomin’ pandemic, she would never have ended up with her current partner, JakeAnkers and had their daughter Alba Jean. Ah-mazing!
“Everything got better from then. So, I’ve got to thank The Masked Singer – and COVID, really!”
Clues: I’m one of the big fish around here but when you look at the waters I swim in, they’re massive! Right now I’m probably not in my natural home, it’s a really big decision to break away from your pod but when you start the hunt as young as I did it’s something you have to do.
To an Orca, family is important… although growing up was a three-ring circus. Or was it five rings? That’s counting absolutely everybody.
Song:abc (nicer) – GAYLE
Guesses: Olympia Valance, Vanessa Amorosi, Jewel, Amy Shark
Photo from the past: A young Orca walking with soccer players, perhaps part of the team?
Clues: Last time I gave an otherworldly performance, the panel made some ghoulish guesses but do they have a hope in hell of unmasking me tonight?
Being the Grim Reaper is my own little empire. This job can get lonely, even with so many people around me. It’s funny, that’s why I get clay feet in the country. I know being Grim Reaper is an important job but I have dreamed of doing something else. But let’s get serious, it’s in my DNA and, in the end, this is what I do. I probably can’t start again.
Song:Oops!…I Did It Again – Britney Spears
Guesses: Jermaine Jackson, Darren Hayes, Luke Steele, Stan Walker
CLUES: Last time I put on a bloomin’ brilliant performance, the panel had a field day with their guesses.
I haven’t always wanted to be a Cow Girl, in a dream I would be a doctor. From an early age a Cow Girl wants to escape. Of course life doesn’t go where you want it to. I fell about 400 meters short. Never mind, that doesn’t mean you should be agro. Okay, I’m the first to say I’m no lady, but I’m no mean girl either, it’s the other girls who were mean to me on screen. I’m just happy to be who I am, and anyone else I choose to be.
SONG: Not Pretty Enough – Kasey Chambers
GUESSES: Courtney Act, Hilary Duff, Toni Pearen, Lindsay Lohan
Want more The Masked Singer Australia 2023 recaps? See below!
Former UK Special Forces soldier – and now TV host – Ant Middleton puts SAS Australia contestants through the paces, alongside his experienced team of directing staff.
Last year, Middleton was joined by directing staff Ollie Olerton, Client Emerson, and Dean Stott. However, this year only Ollerton will be returning with him, and newcomers Jamie “Jay” Morton and Anthony “Staz” Stazicker will be helping push the contestants to their limits.
“The changes freshen it up. It’s important that we kept it SAS instructors, it’s very important that we sort of keep that process because ultimately, we’re doing a version of Special Forces selection,” he told Chattr during an interview before the premiere of the show.
SAS Australia. Seven.
Middleton said that as the SAS team updates their procedures and training, it should be reflected on the show.
“The whole idea is: Do you possess the characteristics and attributes of a special forces operator? So it’s important that we kept sort of UK SF soldiers on board or at least tier-one soldiers.”
Who are the new directing staff?
Morton and Stazicker both have done extensive time in the military, and Middleton has worked alongside both.
“Jay and Staz. I’ve served with both. They’re the new generation, like myself, super current with combat experience of Iraq and Afghanistan.”
Middleton added that all of the directing staff on SAS Australia have experience serving in the Middle East, where this year’s season is filmed.
“We’ve got tonnes of experience there, and the desert is the main area of operations during the last couple of decades. It was just a perfect fit.”
SAS Australia. Seven.
Ant Middleton on his crossover from being in the military to a TV host
After spending more than a decade in the military, Middleton made his TV debut on the UK version of SAS: Who Dares Wins in 2015.
Since then, he went on to host SAS Australia since the show premiered in 2020. He’s also recently had a gig hosting Million Dollar Island Australia.
Looking back at the massive career change, Middleton said that he couldn’t have guessed that he’d end up on TV but thinks it makes sense.
“I always knew that I had a sort of story to tell. I realised from quite a young age in the military that I love mentoring, I love constructing. I love to bring in the best out of people,” he said.
SAS Australia. Seven.
“So when the show came up it was sort of like a natural progression into what I was passionate about anyway,” he added.
“I suppose this is something that hasn’t really shocked me but has always been something I’ve been passionate about so it fits.”
SAS Australia 2023 airs at 7:30pm on October 9 on 7 and 7Plus.
