It’s episode 27 of MasterChef Australia 2023 and it was a Pressure Test with a twist as Adi, Theo and Grace had to replicate a dish with no recipe!
With just two hours on the clock, the contestants had to use their taste buds and gut instincts to recreate Chef Luke Nguyen’s Beef Pho.
With ingredients waiting for them and their equipment provided, it was time to cook for Judges Jock Zonfrillo, Melissa Leong and Andy Allen, while Chef Luke was there to offer guidance.
Being a Pressure Test, whoever’s dish looked and tasted the least like the culinary expert’s, would be sent home!
Andy Allen, Chef Luke Nguyen, Melissa Leong and Jock Zonfrillo. Ten
The Pressure Test — Beef Pho
The first challenge in the Pressure Test saw the contestants identifying what was in Chef Luke’s steaming hot bowl of Beef Pho.
The trio recognised beef short rib, ox tail, rice noodles, and broth as the main ingredients, but there was something else hidden inside, a secret ingredient!
Luke revealed the “ancient delicacy”, of a bull’s penis, explaining it added a gelatinous texture to the broth and respected the ethos of eating the whole animal with minimal waste.
Before cooking, Luke advised the cooks that the broth should be clean and clear, flavoursome and well balanced.
Theo, Grace and Addy. Ten
Adi’s Cook
Adi was feeling excited and ready for her first-ever Pressure Test and as an avid Pho maker, she was off to a flying start: blanching those bones until the broth is crystal clear, and getting it cooked up in the pressure cooker before anyone else.
But then came the noodle drama because getting the perfect dough recipe was a wee bit trickier than she imagined.
After a few false starts, she finally nailed it on her fifth attempt – but time was running out, with only 15 minutes left to get that broth balanced and get her dish ready for tasting. Talk about pressure!
Adi. Ten
Theo’s cook
When it comes to Vietnamese cooking, Theo was a novice and struggled without the use of a recipe. Luckily, Luke and Jock came to the rescue, advising him to pare it down and reframe the dish as a simple soup.
After brewing the perfect broth in the pressure cooker, Theo aced the noodle-making, playing around with xanthan gum; however, the broth needed more work.
He worked on the taste, reduced and seasoned it to perfection, matching up to Luke’s standards.
Theo. Ten
Grace’s cook
Grace entered the challenge optimistic; however, like Theo, was rattled without a recipe.
Unlike the other competitors, she prioritised caramelizing her bones before putting them into the pressure cooker and though it took some noodle dough experiments, she eventually nailed it.
Towards the end, her broth looked a little gloopy and fatty and Mel and Luke gave her the heads up to skim off some of the fat; however, was racing against the clock to create a balanced flavour.
Melissa, Luke and Grace. Ten
Judging
Theo was excited to present his Beef Pho to the judges.
Andy called Theo’s dish “was “close to perfect”, while also congratulating him on turning his cook around.
Theo’s Pho. Ten
Next up was Grace, who said she was “proud” of what she had delivered. The judges liked her seasoning and praised her noodles for being bouncy, silky and soft.
Since she roasted her meat and bones at the start of her cook, Grace’s broth was heavy and cloudy which was also exacerbated by the fact she didn’t skim the fat off the top. Unfortunately, the judges were left with unpleasant greasy palates.
Grace’s dish. Ten
Finally, Adi presented her dish to the judges.
Her pho was praised for its broth clarity and well-cooked protein; however, it lacked seasoning.
Adi’s dish
The Verdict
Due to the leaving an unwanted taste of grease in the mouths of the judges, Grace became the eighth eliminated contestant.
MasterChef Australia airs Sunday – Thursday at 7.30pm on 10 and 10Play.
It’s episode four of Parental Guidance, and Dr Justin Coulson and Ally Langdon are continuing their quest to find Australia’s best parenting style.
Like in episode three, the Influencer, Spiritual, Team, and Stage parenting styles are being put through their paces, delving into the importance of setting a good example, teaching vital life skills, and handling emergency situations.
Challenge One — Parents Off Duty
Testing: Life Skills
Spiritual and Stage Families
The episode kicks off with a dream scenario for every parent – a well-earned night off! But the kids (and their parents) are put to the test to see if they’ve been taught about healthy eating.
The Spiritual Family kids Krishna, 13 and Mridula, 7, decide to make pasta, helping each other out in the kitchen. Mridula who is usually a fussy eater, explored a new type of food because she got involved.
Mridula. Nine
The Stage Parents were up next, adding an additional course for their kids to cook.
While mum Sarah struggled to take a hands-off approach, she also made a comment that “Don’t forget, neither of us eats carbs”.
Xion, a rice lover, decided to use put a cup of it on the plate; however, Sarah’s comments about it became concerning.
“We think it’s important to make them aware, without shaming them, that if you want to be a Hollywood actor and buff, you need to watch what you eat.”
Sarah then picked the meal apart, which Xion noticed before Alaska served them Steak and Vegetables.
Alaska, Mark and Sarah. Nine
Challenge One – The Parent Lounge
While the Spiritual parents, Deepak and Kajal took a lot from the challenge and were commended on their parenting skills, the same couldn’t be said for Stage Parents Mark and Sarah.
Slow Parent Philippa liked how they gave their children a course each to do and Gentle Parent Larissa loved how confident the kids were. However, Unstructured Parent Melody was concerned by Sarah’s Hollywood comment with Mark saying that it’s a “personal goal” that his son Xion had expressed.
Lighthouse Parent Sammy asked where that “belief system” came from, and Sarah said it was because he’s “been around it a lot”, especially with the dancers in musicals who “have amazing bodies”.
“We all have amazing bodies regardless of how they look on the outside,” Melody said.
Parent’s Loung. Nine
Road Trip Parent Amy didn’t have a problem with what Sarah expressed, given they were in the “entertainment industry”.
Challenge One — Parents Off Duty Continued
Team and Influencer Families
The Team family decided on takeaway instead of cooking and although they didn’t make the meal themselves, they worked really well together ordering.
The Influencer kids also decided to bring food in. They chose healthy options rather than going for fast food.
Challenge One – The Parent Lounge Continued
The Team parents were praised for their kids working together and the Influencer Parents then spoke about their “party animal” lifestyles, with Road Trip parent Amy saying they need to change their language with how honest they are with their kids.
Kat and Jonathan. Nine
Dr Justin then said that parents need to be “open” and educate their kids on healthier options.
Spotlight — Team Parenting
In this parenting style, everyone is expected to work together, with Mark and Leanne’s motto being: “One in, all in”.
It turns out, Mark is the son of NRL great Arthur Beetson, the first Indigenous captain of any sporting team in Australia and regarded as a Rugby League immortal.
Arthur Beetson. Nine
Arthur was a hugely influential person in Mark’s life and has a huge impact on the way they parent.
As a couple, they believe in “repetition, respect and discipline, all the fundamentals that make our team what we are.”
Parent’s Lounge — Feedback
Gentle mum Larissa loved that they said “Everything works better when you do it together”, while Slow Parent Philippa was concerned the kids have too much on.
“Our kids thrive off it,” Leanne assured her.
Challenge — Home Alone — Team and Influencers
Testing: Independence under pressure
With a fire simulation blowing smoke into the room, Influencer Family’s Deja is taken aback. Mum Kat reveals that she hasn’t actually spoken to her kids about what to do if there is an emergency, instead, saying she is capable of making the right decision.
Deja decides to go next door for help.
Deja. Nine
Over in the Team Parent’s house, Brooklyn takes control of his little sisters, calling Mark for help.
Parents Lounge— Feedback
Unstructured Parent Melody praised the “team” aspect of how they listened to one another and also told the Influencer family it was great that Deja remained calm and listened to her neighbour.
Challenge — Home Alone — Stage and Spiritual
Xion and River were home alone when the “fire” broke out with Xion telling his brother “It’s not a fire”. They waited for their parents to come back instead of asking for help.
In the Spiritual Home, Krishna and Mridula called their parents. Instead of using a phone, Mridula yelled outside, while Krishna opened windows.
Mridula and Krishna. Nine
Parents Lounge — Feedback
Lighthouse mum Sammy suggested that being more assertive would be better in this situation and the kids needed to get out, rather than investigate.
Spotlight — Stage Parents
Given they are teachers of performing arts, the Stage Parent’s children have been exposed to the industry all of their life.
River plays Jai on Home and Away and gets stopped on the street a lot, which according to Sarah, “he does not like”. She believes in having respect for others and forces him to have his picture taken by strangers who approach him.
River. Nine
Parents Lounge— Feedback
Gentle Parent Larissa loved how confident her kids were, but questioned whether it was appropriate to force him to take a photo. Sarah said that it probably made that person’s day, which he likes.
Slow Parent Philippa asked about the sacrifices they make as parents and Sarah said she wanted to make sure her kids have those opportunities before Lighthouse Parent Melody also questioned whether they were forcing their children to be in the industry; however, Sarah reassured them that they like it.
Challenge Three — Snake Alert Challenge
Testing: Facing your fears
The next challenge is to see how parents handle when their child is confronted by fear.
Krishna from the Spiritual Family was excited by the prospect of holding a snake but Deja was “not a fan of any type of creature.”
Deja. Nine
Kat talked Deja through the process and she was able to overcome her fear!
Stage Parents’ River had zero fear and handled it like a pro while Mridula was able to hold onto the snake with the support of the Spiritual Family.
When it was time for the Team Family, there was a lot of hesitation from Baylee, and after some beautiful coaxing from Mark, Leanne jumped in there and did it too, and there was not a dry eye!
Leanne and Baylee. Nine
The Verdict
Team Parents Mark and Leanne were chosen as the couple with the best Parental Guidance and would be joining Honest mum Kat in the finals.
Parental Guidance airs Monday and Tuesday at 7.30pm on 9 and 9Now.
Mark – who makes up one-half of ‘Team Parenting’ on Parental Guidance – has a deep-rooted history with sport; his father was NRL legend Arthur Beetson.
Arthur’s grandchildren Matthew (16) Billy (11) Ella (8) Brooklyn (6) Bobbi (4) Baylee (3) all appear on the popular reality show alongside their parents Mark and Leanne.
Mark and Leanne with their family. Nine.
Parental Guidance sees twelve sets of parents enter an experiment and openly display their parenting styles, which are judged by both the hosts and their fellow co-stars.
Throughout the season, the parents undertake challenges and have their approach to parenting reviewed, reacted to, and discussed on the Parents’ Lounge, which ultimately leads to a vote for Australia’s best style.
Mark and Leanne focus their parenting style on being coaches, utilising repetition, instilling respect and discipline and encouraging teamwork. They allow their oldest son to be “captain” and sports play a huge role in the family’s routine, keeping the kids active and engaged.
Who is Arthur Beetson?
Arthur Beetson was one of the most legendary faces of NRL. He captained the inaugural State of Origin match in 1980 and was the first Indigenous Australian to captain Australia in any sport.
Arthur Beetson playing NRL. NRL.com
Arthur played NRL from 1964 until 1981, and after he hung up his jersey he went on to become part of the ABC’s commentary team in 1991 for their Saturday Afternoon League telecasts. He also coached the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks for the 1992 and 1993 seasons.
After Arthur passed away in 2011 from a heart attack, his son Mark set up the Arthur Beetson Foundation which honours Indigenous Australians who make outstanding contributions to Queensland Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people through Rugby League.
Shortly after his death, The Premier of Queensland, Anna Bligh ordered a bronze statue of Arthur to be erected at Lang Park.
The Arthur Beetson statue at Lang Park.
What NRL awards did Arthur Beetson win?
1975 NSW Sports Star of the Year.
Named in Australian rugby league’s 100 greatest players.
Named as prop forward in the Australian rugby league team of the century.
Named as prop forward in Queensland rugby league team of the Century.
Named as prop forward in Indigenous Australian rugby league team of the century.
First Aborigine to captain the Australian Test team (vs France for the 2nd France vs Australia Test on the 1973 Kangaroo tour).
Parental Guidance airs Monday and Tuesday at 7.30pm on 9 and 9Now.
The new trailer has dropped for Hunted season two and it looks as though the fugitives will be running the show this year.
“We’ve seen their game, we’ve seen their tricks, we know how it all works,” one of future contestants says in a voice over.
Throughout the two minute trailer, the expert hunters look exasperated over their struggle to catch the fugitives, and one set of contestants even make a getaway on a small private plane.
Another particular scene shows a group of contestants teaming up and donning Money Heist inspired costumes to send the hunters a taunting Instagram video.
Contestants. Hunted.
However, despite the hunters apparent lack of control, they remain determined that they will be victorious.
“The fugitives may have done their homework, but this is our job,” Deputy Intelligence Ben Owen says.
What is the premise of the show?
Hunted follows ten pairs of every-day Aussies who transform themsleves into real-life fugitives with limited funds and resources with one objective in mind; to avoid being caught by the experts.
The experts, otherwise known as the hunters, are made up of some of the world’s best investigators formerly of the Australian Federal Police, Australian Defence Force and British Intelligence, alongside skilled cyber analysts and intel experts.
When fugitives are caught by the hunters, they are eliminated from the game. The fugitives who can evade captures and make it to the 21 day extraction point win the game.
Will any of the cast from season one be returning?
Yes. While the contestants will all be new, many of the hunters from last season will be returning. They’ll be joined by the new addition of Senior Principal analyst Leigha Fraser.
Deputy Intelligence Ben Owen. Hunted.
Amongst the returning experts are:
Hunted Chief Dr. David Craig.
Deputy Intelligence Ben Owen.
Deputy Operations Reece Dewar.
Lead Investigator Graeme Simpfendorfer.
Lead Cyber Jason Edelstein.
Forensic Psychologist Dr Karla Lopez.
Open-Source Intel Carter Smith.
Digital Forensics Jay Banerji.
Ethical Hacker Vicki Grouious.
Open-Source Intel Steph Jensen.
Where can I watch the trailer?
Right here!
Hunted season two will air in 2023 on 10 and 10Play.
In another win for Australian TV, NCIS is heading down under for a Sydney spin-off and a popular former Home and Away star will be one of the agents leading the investigations.
Todd Lasance, who is well-known for playing Aden Jefferies on the Aussie soap will play 2IC AFP counterpart, Sergeant Jim “JD” Dempsey and will answer to NCIS Special Agent Michelle Mackey who will be played by English actress Olivia Swann.
The Australian iteration of the popular crime show follows in the footsteps of Los Angeles, New Orleans, and Hawaii, who’ve all released spin-offs of the series.
NCIS Hawaii. CBS.
“We are thrilled to be expanding the NCIS franchise, one of our most powerful and iconic television IPs, across borders and into Australia,” said Lindsey Martin, Head of International Co-Productions and Development at CBS Studios.
“It is a joy to work with this talented NCIS: Sydney creative team, actors, and crew for our inaugural international original, and to be able to tell our exciting NCIS stories with a uniquely Australian sensibility.”
Who will be in it?
Lasance and Swann will be joined by a whole-new cast, who haven’t appeared in any versions of NCIS before.
Some of the other cast members are:
Sean Sagar (The Covenant, Mea Culpa) as NCIS Special Agent DeShawn Jackson
Tuuli Narkle (Mystery Road: Origin, Bad Behaviour) will play AFP Liaison Officer Constable Evie Cooper
Mavournee Hazel (Shantaram, Halifax: Retribution) will play AFP Forensic Scientist Bluebird ‘Blue’ Gleeson
William McInnes (The Newsreader, Total Control) will play AFP Forensic Pathologist Dr Roy Penrose.
NCIS Sydney cast. Paramount+.
What will NCIS Sydney be about?
The new spin-off will be filmed against the background of Australia’s harbour city of Sydney and will be broadcast globally.
It will follow “a team of U.S. NCIS Agents and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) who are grafted into a multinational taskforce, to keep naval crimes in check, in the most contested patch of the ocean on the planet.”
How can I watch it?
NCIS Sydney will stream exclusively on Paramount+ and Network 10 in Australia and will air in 2023.
It’s Million Dollar Island Australia 2023 episode one and we’re about to be thrown into the deep end.
In the span of an hour and a half, we were introduced to 100 contestants, informed about the premise of the game, watched an elimination challenge go down and saw FIVE people sent home.
The entire episode was a ride, and I had a lot of thoughts throughout.
Here are 20 of them:
Contestants head to Million Dollar Island
1. I already knew there were going to be 100 contestants but seeing them all together is a lot. Like, a lot a lot.
2. Why are they allowed so much stuff? People are literally swimming through the water with full-on suitcases?
Million Dollar Island. Seven.
3. I’m trying to get past this 100-contestant thing, but it’s tough. Seeing everyone sitting at the podium is making me spiral about how I am going to remember all (or any?) of their names.
4. On that note, with so many contestants there’s sure to be a lot of showmances, right? Juicy.
Million Dollar Island. Seven.
The Elimination Wheel gives Mike the power to pick the contestants in the elimination challenge
5. Mike was in charge of picking the contestants who will compete in the elimination challenge and we were told only one person will be kept safe. He said his “last choice” was to pick six strong people (not including himself) to “suss out what they’re like under pressure” and avoid being involved in the elimination. I’m just wondering why this is his last choice and not his first choice?
6. We were introduced to Adrian who is a “Survival Enthusiast” and while I don’t know exactly what that is, he certainly looks the part.
Million Dollar Island. Seven.
7. Mike selected the players to take part in the challenge, and unsurprisingly (!!) he picked himself. It’s Brett, Scott, Tim, Sherwin and Dan facing off with him.
8. Adrian AKA Survival Enthusiast knew what’s up. “I wouldn’t have done that, especially just getting to the island. I wouldn’t have nominated myself no,” he told the camera.
The challenge
9. With everyone’s challenge towers constantly falling over, are we even going to have time to eliminate a chunk of these people so I can start to remember some names?
Million Dollar Island. Seven.
10. It looks as though I may have to eat my words as Mike’s in the lead. Oh god, please no.
11. Nope, Brett made an insane comeback. Not gonna say I told you so Mike, but I kinda did.
12. Brett was deemed safe from this elimination (and the next) and snapped on his competitor’s bracelets which made him the “richest man on the island” with $60,000. This puts a huuuge target on his back, non?
The elimination aftermath
13. Mike, Scott, Tim, Sherwin and Dan’s only hope of staying in the game was to get a bracelet off a team-mate who was willing to quit. Sure, it’s unlikely anyone would want to quit on day two. HOWEVER, maybe these contestants didn’t know there were going to be so many competitors. And CBF with a 1% chance at winning? Just saying.
14. Boom. Donald decided he was over it and was considering going home. Who could blame him? His job title is miner, so a million bucks is prob a few day’s work anyways.
Million Dollar Island. Seven.
15. After putting himself in the firing line, Nick couldn’t even bring himself to hustle the other contestants for their bracelets. At this point, I’m hoping he’ll stay solely for the entertainment factor.
16. Kelly was sick and told she has to go. Here’s hoping her bracelet goes to the wholesome blonde guy (Dan) who wants to support his grandparents with his winnings.
Elimination
17. It’s elimination time, which five people will go home? My prediction? Nick (obviously), Kelly (medical reasons), Donald (Self-eviction), Sherwin, and Scott.
18. Curveball: Kelly gave her bracelet to someone (I’ve never seen before) who isn’t even up for eviction.
Million Dollar Island. Seven.
19. Boo! Dan’s sent home along with our exceptional villain Nick, as well as Kelly, Donald, Sherin, and Scott. Donald decides to give his bracelet to Tim and just like that, we’re down to 94 contestants.
20. Brett’s advice for Jonathan, who will be picking the next elimination batch, is top-notch. “You don’t want to nominate yourself, don’t make the Mike mistake. Think hard about what you’re going to do.” Touche.
Million Dollar Island Australia continues at 7.30pm on 7 and 7Plus.
It’s episode 26 of MasterChef Australia 2023 and fish master Josh Niland is in the kitchen to share his approach to nose-to-tail seafood preparation and consumption.
Before setting the day’s task, Josh showed the contestants how to completely break down a John Dory before setting them a challenge to cook a delicious dish using the cuts under their Mystery Box in 75 minutes.
Those who impressed our judges Jock Zonfrillo, Andy Allen, Melissa Leong and Josh the least, will land themselves in tomorrow’s pressure test.
Josh Niland. Ten
What did the contestants cook?
The first dish the judges tasted was Antonio‘s Dory al Asado Negro with Cauliflower Purée and Plantain Chips.
“This is a dish very traditional from home,” Antonio told the judges.
Josh praised the cook, saying he cooked the fish “bang on”.
“I don’t think there’s too much better you could have done there,” he said while calling it “yummy”.
Andy said that he had transformed his thinking while Melissa called it “spectacular”.
Antonio’s dish. Ten
Malissa then presented Hibachi Roasted John Dory with a Yellow Curry Sauce.
Judge Mel called it a “pleasure to eat”.
Malissa’s dish. Ten
Ralph then delivered a Herb Crusted Dory with Potato Bake.
Jock said it was a “great concept”.
Ralph’s Dish. Ten
When bringing up his unique Dagwood Dory to the judges, Brent loved his idea but was concerned that he hadn’t tasted all of his components together.
Jock called the Sri Lankan-inspired flavour “epic” and the sauce on the side “complimented that” and was impressed how out of the box (pun intended) he went with his concept.
Mel loved the texture of the fry and Josh loved his innovation.
Brent’s dish. Ten
Next up was Theo, who was “nervous” that he hadn’t cooked his bread and fish properly. While it “started out as something else”, the dish he presented was Dory Khachapuri.
Andy said he thought the fish was “going to be dry, but I think you made the right decision. The fish is cooked really nicely”. However, added that “what suffered is the bread”. It was undercooked.
Jock was pleased by the fish and said, “It’s the MasterChef kitchen and sometimes it gets you.”
Theo’s dish. Ten
Adi was up next with her Dory Cheeks Rice Cakes with Roe and Crispy Fish Skin. While she really “wanted to do something different today”, she was concerned there was not enough fish on the plate.
Andy said it had a “very interesting flavour profile”; however, there was too much rice cake and Mel said it “just didn’t quite come together”.
Adi’s dish. Ten
Grace followed with her Fried John Dory and Hot and Sour Sauce.
Jock called her sauce “bottle ready” and “delicious” but the fish was overcooked.
Grace’s dish. Ten
Rue presented her Poached John Dory with a Pea Relish and a Beurre Blanc.
Andy said it was cooked “nicely” but that it was lacking in seasoning.
Rue’s dish. Ten
The “Fish Man”, Declan was up next who said he was “super overwhelmed and stoked” to be cooking for Josh.
He presented a Poached John Dory with Blackberry Reduction and said he “didn’t want to screw this one up” after fumbling in front of Rick Stein during episode 25.
Jock said he “didn’t think it was going to work” but really liked his sauce, and that he, “thought differently about this”, before calling his components “brilliant”.
Josh said it was “really great” (to a beaming Declan) and Mel called it some “really high concept thinking”.
Declan’s dish. Ten
Finally, it was Rhiannon’s turn but she was worried that she had undercooked her fish.
She presented a Hibachi Grilled Dory with Asian Apple Salad and Nam Jim Dressing.
Mel was surprised by her sad demeanour; however, Rhiannon was “devastated” because she didn’t give herself enough time.
Jock loved her rice and salad and said the cooking of the fish was “perfect” much to the relief of Rhiannon.
“I’m so proud of you,” he said while Josh agreed.
Andy told her to “let this be your turning point” in the competition. “We’re all digging it!”
Rhiannon’s dish.
The Verdict
Josh praised the cooks and said that “what we do now impacts what the future state could really be.”
Adi, Theo and Grace were announced as the bottom cooks and will be headed into tomorrow’s Pressure Test.
In the cutest moment ever, Declan said “See ya, Josh” as he was walking out of the kitchen. Just LOVE him.
MasterChef Australia airs Sunday – Thursday at 7.30pm on 10 and 10Play.
It’s episode three of Parental Guidance Australia 2023 and time to put the spotlight on four more parenting styles.
This week, host Ally Langdon and Dr Justin Coulson have introduced a fresh group of Focus Parents — Spiritual, Team, Stage, and Influencer parenting styles which will showcase their unique approach to raising children in the modern age.
Getting to know the Focus Parents
Stage Parents Sarah, 47 and Shane, 51, are raising their kids Alaska, 17, Xion, 13, and River, eight.
Given Sarah runs a theatre company and Shane is a drama teacher, “stage parenting is mostly fun” and they “encourage their kids’ individuality, creativity and independence.”
While people think Stage parents are encouraging of their children, Sarah says they are more “critical” of their kids.
Stage Family. Nine
Spiritual Parents Kajal, 37 and Deepak, 45, have two children, Krishna, 13 and Mridula, seven.
The family believe that they are part of the “divine” and they look towards Lord Krishna, “our God to guide us with our parenting and everything else we do.”
Their style embodies “parenting to the needs of the child, on the physical level, on the intellectual level and also on the spiritual level.”
“In regards to our parenting style, Lord Krishna says, ‘Treat me as you would treat your child or treat me as you would treat me,” Deepak said. “It’s not just us raising kids, our kids are raising us, spiritually.”
Spiritual Family. Nine
The Influencer Parents Kat, 36, and Jonathan, 40, are raising their daughters Latisha,18 and Deja, 11.
Their parenting style is leading by example and using technology to “connect rather than separate”.
Kat and Jonathan take an “influencer approach” to parenting, with both kids having social media accounts.
“If you see people on TikTok, if you see people on Instagram, the future is only going to move in that direction,” Jonathan said, while Kat said that “education is key”, teaching them “what to look out for and keeping them safe”.
Influencer Family. Nine
Mark, 46, and Leanne, 42 are Team Parents to their six kids Matthew, 16, Billy, 11, Ella, eight, Brooklyn, six, Bobbi, four and Baylee, three who love “working together and supporting each other” raising their “little tribe”.
“We’ve always got each other’s backs,” Leanne said, adding that they parent them like their own “footy team”.
Both parents are Rugby League coaches (Mark has a VERY famous dad) and where they “lead” their kids “follow”.
Team Family. Nine
Challenge One — Feeding Time at the Zoo
Testing: Managing emotions
In this challenge, we looked at how families deal with disappointment when only one person can have a turn.
In the Stage Family, Xion was chosen to feed the koala, while River expressed his upset over not being chosen. Shane and Sarah tried to diffuse the situation with comedy with Sarah saying, “You’re acting like a 5-year-old” to eight-year-old River.
Meanwhile, the Spiritual Family were tasked with feeding some hungry quokkas. it was a different story when Krishna said to his little sister, Mridula, that she could be the one to perform the activity; however, as a family, they decided he would actually be the one to do it. Deepak said that “making others happy” is very important.
Mridula. Nine
Unstructured parent Michael was impressed by their ability to turn disappointment into happiness for someone else.
Slow Parenting Dad Chris liked the way that Shane distracted River with humour; however, Unstructured mum Melody said Sarah’s approach was “nasty”.
Sarah then said that once you turn six, “it’s time that they should be able to control themselves”.
Next up were the Influencer parents. Their approach to disappointment is to be open and honest. Latisha was given the opportunity to hold the Koala and Deja handled her disappointment well.
Parent Lounge — Dr Justin removes one couple from the room
During the Team Parents Zoo challenge, Brooklyn, 6 and Baylee, 3 were upset that they weren’t able to feed the penguins; however, Mark, with five kids around him, managed to handle it like a pro.
Nine
Honest mum Kat told Mark that he “nailed” it; however, Gentle Parents Larissa and Marcus said they would have approached it differently.
“I’m curious why crying isn’t behaving?” Larissa said before Outback parent David defended Mark’s actions. Melody then tried to explain what Larissa meant; however, David was concerned that if they cry, would they get a cuddle every time.
Both Larissa and Melody argued the point that Baylee was three, but David continued with Team mum Leanne saying that it’s not acceptable to cry because they didn’t get to do the activity.
Larissa and David continued to be at odds with one another with Leanne saying that kids crying are “looking for attention and it’s not OK”.
Larissa. Nine
Dr Justin then asked Mark and Leanne to “stop for a moment” and took them outside for a “chat”.
“The room is getting too heated,” he said.
Dr Justin uses the example of if Mark spoke to his wife like the way he spoke to his child, would she respond well to being told to “stop it”?
He instead suggested identifying what is causing the “big emotion” and empathising with it. The process is called “Emotion Coaching”.
“The greatest human need is not to be loved but to be understood,” Dr Justin said.
Family Spotlight — Influencers
Learning more about the Influencer family, Jonathan and Kat admit that they were raised by strict parents, deciding to do the “complete opposite” with their girls.
Both Deja and Latisha are on all social media platforms and while Jonathan says having knowledge about safety online is paramount, he also admitted that the monetary gain is helpful too.
Back in the Focus Room, Slow Parents Phillipa and Chris reveal they don’t use much technology while raising their family, questioning Kat and Jonathan about the age their kids joined social media.
Philippa and Chris. Nine
Deja has been on social media for a couple of years and Kat reveals that they have access to everything. They also said that they do not “mindlessly scroll”, modelling that for their kids.
Ally asks if they are always creating content for the likes, which prompts the Focus Parents to further probe the Influencer parents.
Dr Justin then says: “As parents, we’ve got to be actively involved, having conversations, guiding their social media use and knowing what’s going on”.
Challenge Two — Online Research
The next challenge saw the kids armed with a laptop where a pop-up appeared asking them whether they were over 18 or not. The task was to see if the kids knew how to be safe online.
What seemed like a straightforward task, researching planet Uranus, took an unexpected turn as the children stumbled upon a potential gateway to explicit content.
While Spiritual’s Mridula and Influencer’s Deja passed with flying colours, while 16-year-old Matthew from Team family… did not. And, Mark was not surprised!
“The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree,” he said.
Matthew. Nine
Stage parent’s son Xion, 13, also clicked that he was over 18 after a few seconds of contemplation; however, Ally gave them some concessions, given that most families across Australia would have the same issue with their teenagers.
The conversation turned to if there were different standards for girls and boys with Slow Parent Phillipa saying it was a “cultural norm” for young males to be curious. Road School parent Amy said that girls were “tarnished” while American Parent Kim disagreed.
Kids Speak
During Kids Speak, Mridula said her parents were “encouraging” while 11-year-old Billy said Team Parents were “nice and caring” and they “look after us good”.
Influencing kid Deja said her parents were “crazy” and Stage kid Xion called his mum and dad “weird. Very weird.” HA!
Stage Parent kids. Nine
Deja revealed that she thinks her dad is “cool” and that all of her friends “love his hair” and Xion said his dad was “fit and buff”.
“He’s like Shane the Rock Johnson,” he said. Yes, Shane. LOL! Love Xion!
Krishna thought his dad was “funny” and admitted that one time, his dad “farted very loudly”! HA!
River said his mum can be “really nice sometimes” and Billy said Leanne was always “screaming” at footy! Deja, on the other hand, liked her mum because she was “really rich”. Dead.
As for who’s the boss of the household, Mridula said “God”, while the Stage kids were unanimous in saying their mum and the Team kids said their dad.
“Just so we all know, I’m the boss of the family, not Mark,” Leanne joked!
More of this segment, please!!
Spotlight — Spiritual Family
Coming from a Hindu background, Deepak said that “spirituality means we are all spirits” and their job as parents is to guide their kids in their overall journey.
“Be honest, be kind, don’t hurt each other,” he said while also teaching them to be grateful.
Mridula. Nine
American mum Kim praised them for giving their kids “another dimension” and Melody agreed, saying that having a strong sense of self was something that every kid needed.
“Externals don’t matter,” Deepak said.
While Deepak and Kajal’s parents live with them, Lighthouse’s mum Sammy admitted it wouldn’t work in their household. American Parent Kim said that in “Asia they do it so well but in the West, we’re missing out”.
Challenge — Reverse Park
The kids had to reverse park while the kids gave them directions. In this challenge, they were looking to see which parents could relinquish control and trust their kids to communicate effectively. What could possibly go wrong?
Eight-year-old River signalled for the Stage Parents, saying Sarah “might” hit the car, but overall did a great job!
River. Nine
Spiritual Parent Deepak struggled to let Mridula take control and while Mridula said Kajal was going to hit the car, his directions overpowered and the car was hit. Oops!
Road Parent Amy told Deepak that he should have listened to his daughter because she was giving great instruction while Dr Justin said that if you listen to your kids and stop thinking we “know it all”, they can really provide great insight.
Team’s Leanne took the wheel while eight-year-old Ella took control of the directions. Matthew decided to joke around, even thumping the car to make Leanne think she hit something, but in reality, Ella did a great job!
Ella. Nine
The Influencer family allowed Deja to take control, but her loud instructions caused Kat to say “f**k”; however, although “stressful” it was amazing!
American mum Kim praised the Influencers for “great communication” with the topic then turning to if should you swear in front of your kids.
Honest mum Kat said it was OK within reason and Gentle mum Larissa said they don’t swear in front of their kids.
Challenge — Approaching Tough Topics
Ally and Dr Justin wanted to see how the parents educate their kids on anatomy and how comfortable they are talking about it.
Matthew, 16, was embarrassed to say “vagina” while Ella was able to say it with a giggle.
Matthew. Nine
Over in the Stage Family, Xion knew the term “vulva” and also knew that a “foreskin” was removed during circumcision.
It wasn’t as successful with the Spiritual Family with Mridula saying babies came out of “the bum” and didn’t know the actual word for vagina, instead calling it “Venus”.
Leanne was shocked that her kids knew so much, saying that they knew more than she did. Philippa said that kids should know the “sooner the better” about their bodies to “normalise it” for our kids. Gentle mum Larissa said it was important for children to know, in case “something bad happens” and they are able to verbalise it.
As for the Influencer family, Kat says that her girls can come to her “about anything”. Deja was confident in saying that babies came from sperm, saying that they “race”. Lol.
Kat explained that she didn’t have the opportunity to talk to her own parents and shared what she told the girls about being a teen mum.
Kat. Nine
“I just don’t want them to be one,” she said, adding that she had had more of a conversation with Latisha than Deja.
“I didn’t want them to be held back,” she said of her own experience and wanted them to go to uni and get jobs without a child in tow.
Honest mum Kat said she really “resonated” with their honest approach.
The Verdict
The parents with the best Parental Guidance style so far was the Influencer parents Jonathan and Kat!
Parental Guidance airs Monday and Tuesday at 7.30pm on 9 and 9Now.
It’s episode five of FBoy Island Australia 2023 and over in the Nice Guy Grotto it’s face masks and cucumbers for all. While they were living it up in a life of luxury, over in Limbro, school was in session.
Host Abbie Chatfield tried to teach the disregarded idiots men about erogenous zones, and unsurprisingly Joey and mullet boy Mitch didn’t know what the term meant. Go figure.
Abbie in Limbro. Binge
Taco Tuesday Mikey reckoned “the boobs” are the most effective zones while newly-appointed FBoy Simon said “the toes”. VOMIT.
Abbie then took some chalk to spell out a word that clearly these men have never uttered before, “girlfriend”, and while this is meant to be a joke, it was absolutely not funny at all…
The day after the Elimination
After sweet, sweet Nick’s return to the Resort in episode four, he became concerned over having some competition and was all like: “Who da fuq is Vernon?”. Meanwhile, ol’ mate stache-boy was not thrilled about Nick’s comeback either, made worse by the fact that the other guys told him he should be worried. LOL.
Vernon. Binge
Over in the Villa, Molly continued to be on cloud nine before admitting that she was “smitten” by Vernon. However, their talk was interrupted by the doorbell and the appearance of Grand High FBoy (GHFB) Caleb.
Caleb had come offering bribes a.k.a chicken burgers, hoping to win over Ziara after their nice date; but Molly was suss over the gesture and Sophie’s burger “went down the wrong hole”.
Caleb. Binge
Group Date – The Talent Show
In a challenge that precisely not one person in Australia asked for, it was time for competition to see who could do the absolute least.
Titled “If you show me yours, I’ll show you mine: The talent show”, da boiz were about to be judged by Sophie, Ziara, Molly and consequentially, Australia as a whole.
While Ziara was keen to see who was putting in the most effort for her, Abbie was just thrilled to be able to “gong” those who were sh**. But, before it could even start, we were subjected to filth, as #dadshoes Darcy admitted that one of his talents came from the use of his tongue. While we saw a split-second preview, thank God, we weren’t subjected to the rest of it…
Brit Benny came to the party with some “savage roasting” of the other guys, calling peroxide Justin “Draco Malfoy” (new name incoming) while he asked tatt-man Chris if he went to prison for his “sh** tattoos or did it get done in there?”. LAWL. Molly and Ziara awarded him a seven while Sophie gave him a nine, admitting that she could see herself leaving the island with him.
Benny. Binge
Then it was time for sweet sweet Nick who recited a poem about a girl named “Polly”. Since we all know men who sing or rhyme on reality TV…shouldn’t, Abbie cut him off after the first three lines. Naturally, Molly loved it.
Stache-boy Vernon, Nick’s arch-nemesis, rode a unicycle as a clown, which was fitting given his behaviour and Molly rewarded him with a measly three.
Next up was hot name Izaya, who had also prepared a poem but because he was nervous AF, stumbled over it before actually, kinda, sorta doing OK. Ziara said she thought he’d actually be a great poet IRL because he’s hot.
Izaya. Binge
Unsurprisingly with this group, literally, not one person had any talent and we were punished with a montage of it. However, an honourable mention must be given to GHFB Caleb for giving the absolute worst, performing some sort of whistle gyration. And…Ziara thought it was “hot”…👀
Shooting his shot, pro-BBaller Cory just bounced a basketball with Ziara giving him a 10 because it was “so cute”; while his arch nemesis, #dadshoes Darcy, rocked up in a bow tie, shorts, long socks and fake glasses previously worn by Abbie in Limbro. He decided to perform dad jokes and after precisely one second, Ziara was like all of us when she begged for it to stop.
Given the whole thing was an absolute wasteland of talent, Izaya won. Which says a lot….
The Mixer
During the mixer, cOnTenT CReaTor Clay asked GHFB Caleb what his “game plan” was. Opening up his peacock feathers, Caleb told the guys about the chicken burger delivery, refusing to draw attention to himself because “Z” already knows “what’s going on”. FML.
When the girls arrive, Ziara wanted zero drama (FORESHADOWING) and Molly was just all about sweet sweet Nick; and even though everyone only saw each other five minutes ago, everyone hugged and kissed like it was the first time.
Dad joke Darcy was worried that everything was “stagnated” between him and Ziara particularly after they had “sprouted” so well, so he decided on a grand gesture. Chicken nuggies.
Then, sweet sweet Nick and Molly stole some alone time; while Sophie decided to suss out tatt-man Chris, who revealed he’d been previously engaged. Meanwhile, Benny was ignoring her and she was like WTAF?!
Since all the guys now think grand gestures involve fried foods, pro-Bballer Cory decided to rock up with french fries and dad joke Darcy was not f**king laughing. While Cory and Ziara connected over fast food, Darcy was fuming because nuggies were “far superior” to french fries.
Darcy. Binge
But then, while Darcy was talking to Ziara about five-year plans, Cory interrupts, mocking Darcy and trying to pinch some food before all the other guys came over to try and steal some. This ENRAGED ol’ mate D-man who picked them up and… threw them on the floor.
The whole thing was supremely uncomfortable to watch, but it wasn’t as bad as seeing them chew the nuggies without sweet ‘n’ sour sauce…
Clearly an overreaction, Molly was unimpressed and Ziara called him “selfish”, before walking off. GHFB then told dad jokes that he should be a “gentleman”, which is RICH coming from him, and Darcy was sad.
The next day, GHFB Caleb decided it was time for Darcy to go home while simultaneously calling out Cory, alluding to the fact he had some tea to spill.
The Single Dates
Sweet sweet Nick and Molly had a single date with Nick telling Molly his new house nickname, “Cuddle Bear”. Obviously, because he likes to cuddle and be the little spoon. Molly admitted that she had also heard another nickname, “Big D**k Nick”… which is great for her. They kiss. Blah blah…
Meanwhile, Sophie and brown eyes Joshy were having a picnic in the middle of a bush while eating oysters. Weird flex, but Ok… While Sophie didn’t like the aftertaste, Joshy said “I do”, and he was clearly not talking about shellfish.
Sophie and Joshy. Binge
Sophie admitted she thought Joshy was the “most genuine man on this island” (hard agree) and tells him that he “underestimates” himself. They make out in the waterfall. Cute.
After the dates, Abbie surprises the girls with an “FBI Board” a.k.a a FBoy Investigation Board at the Villa, which frankly, all single women should have in their homes.
They talk about all the guys and where they sit on the chart and Molly calls stache-boy Vernon “a risk” while Sophie is infatuated by all her front-runners and they inform Abbie of dad joke Darcy’s “nugget tantrum”.
Elimination Night
Finally, it was time to banish some men to Limbro and after the previous night’s antics, this sh** couldn’t come soon enough.
GHFB Caleb is ready to throw some grenades at pro-BBaller Cory, telling the ladies that he basically lied about his age. Come again?! Appaz he told Sophie he was 32 but he told GHFB Caleb he was 35. SO, WHICH ONE IS IT CORY?
COnTenT CReaTor Clay also throws Cory under the bus, leaving Darcy positively thrilled. GHFB Caleb and Cory then have some words, which made Ziara question everything.
Ziara, Sophie and Molly. Binge
Unfortunately, we weren’t given any answers because Abbie was too excited to talk about #ChickenNuggieGate.
“I just have one question, guys. What the f**k,” she asked before dad jokes Darcy tries to defend himself…which was an actual joke.
Sophie put tatt-man Chris and Brit Benny into her bottom two and Benny was shocked to hear his name called, even though he pretended he didn’t hear it.
Molly chose who the actual f**k is Ben for her bottom two, alongside who the actual fork is Jonathan; while Ziara put up chicken nuggies Darcy and… french fries Cory.
Ziara then called Darcy “immature” and said Cory had shown her a side she didn’t like. Obviously, Molly had no idea who her bottom two even were while Sophie said she was “confused” by why Benny was being “distant”.
Pleading his case, Darcy thought that a poem would save him… while Cory claimed that his intentions were “pure”. LELELELEL.
Glossing over Molly, because seriously, who are these people?! Benny then admitted that he felt “intimidated” by the others which caused him to retreat.
The Verdict
Praise be! Dad jokes Darcy was eliminated by Ziara, Molly got rid of one of the anonymous men (Johnathan) and Sophie dumped tatt-man Chris.
Chris and Abbie. Binge
It turns out, Darcy was a Nice Guy (which is so f**king concerning), Jonathan was a Nice Guy and Chris was… also a Nice Guy. WOW.
FBoy Island Australia 2023 is streaming now on Binge.
Parental Guidance’s Influencer parents Jonathan and Kat are not like most parents, they are cool parents (IYKYK) but in a hugely responsible way.
The couple, who are currently appearing in the second season of the hit show with their daughters Latisha “Tisha” and Deja, has a “pretty unique parenting” style, which sees them be a lot more “lax” about screen time and social media.
“We were interested in showing our perspective on how we make that work within our family dynamic,” Jonathan told Chattr during an interview about their involvement in the show.
Adding that “no one really speaks about” social media as a way to raise kids, they thought it was important to bring their knowledge about something that’s way more important “than parents have an idea of”.
Kat and Jonathan with Latisha and Deja. Nine
“Kids these days growing up, they grow up with iPads and screens. For them, it’s just another extension of their arm,” he said.
“For us to really close our eyes and think that it’s not important, it’s really dangerous because the internet and social media open up a whole new realm of not only opportunities, but the dangers out there are exponential as well.”
Jonathan believes that as parents if you don’t get your head around the possibilities of what can happen to your children and are not “savvy and educated enough”, it can cause some “really big issues”.
“You may not need not even have a clue that those issues are happening or what’s going on if you don’t have your finger on that pulse.”
How Kat and Jonathan educate their own kids about social media
Since filming was over a year ago, Latisha is now 20 and Deja is almost 13 and both have had their own social accounts for years. While some people would be quick to judge this, both Kat and Jonathan have always been very hands-on, particularly when it comes to their youngest daughter.
“We have a really close relationship with our kids,” Kat said during the same interview. “I’ve got access to her [Deja] Instagram account, and I’m reading her DMs and all that sort of stuff.
“If there is something that worries me, that will bring up a conversation that we’ll have. It’s not like we sit there on a Monday night and have a lesson on social media. Things come up and that’s when we’ll address it.”
Kat and Deja. Instagram
How the Influencer Parents handle online trolls
Unfortunately, while they have a great community of followers, there are a few people that take it upon themselves to troll the family.
“We get a lot of hate and we get a lot of people trolling us,” Jonathan admitted. “So we’re really trying to lead by example in the way that we react to things that come up out from our profiles. Then she [Deja] sees that and has an idea of well, it really doesn’t matter and it’s not hurting my parents and they’re not sitting in the corner crying in a foetal position over a comment, so that really helps as well.”
According to Kat, online trolls target anything from the way they look to what they’re wearing.
“People have asked me how far along I am as if I’m gaining weight and if I’m pregnant,” she said. “They’re trying to insult you and it’s just got to be water off a duck’s back.”
Instagram
Jonathan has also taught his children that if someone has “enough sadness in their heart” and has taken the time to go onto someone’s page, post and actually write a negative comment, then empathy must be used.
“That person must either be going through something really bad in their life, or they have gone through something bad in life, or they’re in a really bad place,” he said.
How Jonathan and Kat’s parenting style came about
Both Jonathan and Kat grew up in very strict households and according to Jonathan, all it did was turn him into “a good liar” when he was a teenager.
“That was a real conscious thing,” he said of their parenting style. “It made me be my own parent when it came to things where I needed guidance and I knew I couldn’t go [to my parents] because I would have gotten into trouble or I would get grounded. And Kat was the same. We just didn’t want that for our kids.
“We wanted them to have the freedom to make mistakes to do things that they are going to do and at the same time, come to us for advice.”
Instagram.
In fact, he believes that some of the most important times of your life as a child are when you need guidance, “when you’ve done something that you probably shouldn’t have done.”
“The last thing you need is to be scolded and to be put into a corner because you’ve done something that you already feel bad enough about yourself,” he said. “You don’t need to be scolded and punished even further.”
What Kat and Jonathan say about the other Parental Guidance parents
While all different in their approach, both Kat and Jonathan agree that all of the other Parental Guidance cast are “amazing parents”.
“We might not agree with how they parent their kids, but at the end of the day, we all have the same goal, and that is to bring up happy, healthy children,” Kat said. “And I think that’s kind of where we come from…. There’s not one group of parents on that panel who has is wanting to do any harm to their children.”
Parental Guidance airs Monday and Tuesday at 7.30pm on 9 and 9Now.
When host Ally Langdon started filming the first season of Parental Guidance, she didn’t know there were such things as “parenting styles”.
In fact, when raising her two children Mack, six and Scout, four, she and her husband Mike Willisee Jr “just fell into it”.
“I just sort of thought we had good days and bad days and it kind of blew my mind,” Langdon said in an interview with Chattr about the different ways to parent.
All Langdon and Mike Willisee Jr. Instagram
“Some of the couples have really researched [their style] how they want to raise their kids. I think I sort of fall into the majority where we just fall into it but I don’t know a whole lot of parents who sit down and go, ‘Okay, how are we going to do this? And what’s our approach?’
Like a lot of Australian families, getting through the day and “winging it” is part and parcel with being a mum, which gave her a brilliant idea for season three.
“Maybe that’s an idea for the next season,” she joked. “Is that we bring in a whole bunch of parents who’ve never thought about how they parent. They’re just winging it!”
Ally Langdon on how the Influencer parents changed her perception of parenting in the digital age
“A big focus this season is to do with screen-time technology and the safety of our kids when they’re online,” Langdon said.
In particular, Influencers Kat, 36 and Jonathan, 40 and their children Latisha,18 and Deja, 11, represent what it’s like to parent in the digital age.
The Influencers. Nine
“Their [Kat and Jonathan] kids are online, be really tech-savvy,” Langdon said. “They’re beautiful kids — I mean, I should make the point that all the kids in the show are gorgeous, they’re all really, really lovely kids, so all the parents are doing something right — but the [Influencer] kids have social media accounts and they have hundreds of 1000s of followers. It’s a big part of their life. And I think even just reading about it, I had a whole lot of preconceived ideas.”
During the June 5 episode of the series, Honest single-mum Kat was horrified to find out that her daughter would not only share her street address online with a stranger but would also lie about it. In an emotional scene, every single parent, including Langdon, felt for her.
Kat. Nine
“It hit everyone straight between the eyes,” Langdon admitted. “It’s really interesting with different approaches from different parents, some have had really open conversations about safety online and other parents who don’t, and I feel like I’ve fallen into this category.”
Parental Guidance airs Monday and Tuesday at 7.30 pm on 9 and 9Now.
It’s hard to look past the hu-uge 100-person cast on Million Dollar Island, but, once you do, you’ll probably notice the stunning beaches and landscapes behind the crowd of contestants.
The pristine island that the new reality show was filmed on is actually one tiny teeny part of a massive archipelago.
While the exact island that Million Dollar Island is filmed on hasn’t been released, we do know that it was set on one of the 104 islands of Langkawi, in Malaysia.
Langkawi is the name of a Malaysian archipelago, which is separate from mainland Malaysia. To get to the Langkawi islands, tourists can fly into Kuala Lumpur airport and then catch a short connecting domestic flight to one of the island’s airports, or they can catch a ferry from KL.
What is the premise of Million Dollar Island?
The new reality show has contestants fighting tooth and nail on a remote island to (quite literally) grab the prize money. Each player is given a $1,000 bracelet on arrival, and the challenge is to acquire as many bracelets as possible by competing in challenges, forming alliances, scheming, and stealing.
At the beginning of the show, there are 100 people competing for the winning title and prize money, so it shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise that multiple people will be eliminated in every episode.
Milion Dollar Island. Seven.
Who will take part in Million Dollar Island?
Farmers, retail workers, garbos, nurses, real estate agents and more leave the real world to fight for the $1 million prize. You can check out the cast here.
Who is hosting?
Million Dollar Island is hosted by SAS Australia DS Ant Middleton.
WatchMillion Dollar Island from June 12 on Channel 7 and 7plus.
It’s episode 25 of MasterChef Australia 2023 and the end of Home Cooks versus Pro Cooks week and after success against the pros, Rhiannon and Antonio were safe from elimination.
Culinary legend Rick Stein was back in the MC kitchen, having built a career around cooking with simple and fresh seafood, he gave our cooks a demonstration on how to clean squid before setting the contestants a two-round challenge.
In round one, the contestants had to feature squid in their dish with just 45 minutes on the clock. The four least impressive dishes were then headed into round two.
The second part of the challenge, saw the contestants choose one of Stein’s favourite food hot spots from around the world to create a dish that will transport the judges to their destination of choice. Of course, whoever cooked the least impressive dish was eliminated from the competition.
Rick Stein. Ten
Round One
During the episode, everyone brought their A-game with some delicious squid dishes!
Ralph and Malissa took the safe route with some salt and pepper calamari, while Cath got tropical with a ceviche, earning herself an infamous round of applause from Judge Jock Zonfrillo.
Cath’s Squid Ceviche. Ten
Rue went with a prawn stew to cook her squid in, and Theo spiced things up with Peri-Peri sauce.
Rue’s prawn stew. Ten
Grace made a delectable Ajvar sauce to go with her dish, Brent brought a Sri Lankan curry to the table while Adi showed off her skills with a flavorful Maharashtrian curry, and Phil chose to confit the squid with some scallops.
Phil’s dish. Ten
Declan, the fish master, entered the challenge with confidence while hoping to impress his idol, Stein. Protected by his Immunity Pin, he was certain that he would not have to use it; however, things took a sharp turn as he found himself in round two with Phil, Malissa, and Ralph.
Declan’s dish. Ten
Round Two
In Round Two, the contestants were challenged to create a mouth-watering dish inspired by Stein’s five favourite food places: France, Spain, the UK, Mexico or Italy.
With 75 minutes on the clock, they had to whisk the judges to their chosen location and avoid serving up a dish that would boot them out of the competition.
Stein’s map of the world. Nine
Declan decided to choose Mexico and wanted to serve a Beer-Battered Flathead with Salsa and Pickled Veggies; however, rattled by Round One, during the cook, he decided to play his Immunity Pin and headed to the safety of the gantry.
Declan. Ten
Despite having to use her backup, Malissa’s Honey and Olive Oil Pana Cotta with Lemon Crumb and Charred Apricots was a hit. The judges unanimously agreed it was a triumph, praising it as her best dish yet!
Malissa’s dish. Ten
Even though Ralph’s Croque Madame with Soft Poached Egg and Potato Foam was a bold concept and the judges could piece the flavours together, unfortunately, it didn’t transport them to France.
Ralph’s dish. Ten
Phil then delivered his Spaghetti Con Anatra which failed to hit the mark. With only 75 minutes for the cook, the Judges felt it was not the dish to cook given that his duck was dry and the pasta wasn’t up to scratch.
Phil’s dish. Ten
The Verdict
Phil became the seventh contestant to say goodbye, saying he’d be forever grateful for the experience in the MasterChef kitchen, thanking the judges for giving him purpose after feeling lost in his career.
Phil leaving the MasterChef kitchen. Ten
MasterChef Australia airs Sunday – Thursday at 7.30pm on 10 and 10Play.
Netflix’s wholesome coming-of-age drama The Summer I Turned Pretty is almost back for season two, and it looks as though the new instalment will be as dramatic as the first.
The series is based on Jenny Han’s best-selling book trilogy of the same name with Season one following Bella “Belly” Conklin as she spent the summer at Cousin’s Beach with her family, finding herself in the middle of a love triangle with brothers Conrad and Jeremiah.
After Jeremiah went MIA during Belly’s debutante ball dance in the finale episode of season one, Belly decided that she wanted to be with Conrad.
The indecisiveness from Belly about which brother she prefers has left fans impatiently waiting for season two to find out if she will stay with Conrad for good.
Jeremiah and Belly. Prime Video.
What is season two about?
Belly used to count down the days until she could return to Cousins Beach, but with Conrad and Jeremiah fighting over her heart and the return of her family friend Susannah’s cancer, she’s not sure this summer will be the same. When an unexpected visitor threatens the future of their beach house, Belly has to rally the gang to come together — and to decide once and for all where her heart lies.
Who’s in season two of The Summer I Turned Pretty?
Season two will see the majority of the original cast return, with Lola Tung playing Isabel “Belly” Conklin, Christopher Briney as Conrad Fisher and Gavin Casalegno as Jeremiah Fisher.
Some of the other returning cast members include:
Rachel Blanchard as Susannah Fisher.
Sean Kaufman as Steven Conklin.
Alfredo Narciso as Cleveland Castillo.
Colin Ferguson as John Conklin.
Tom Everett Scott as Adam Fisher.
Minnie Mills will not be returning as Shayla.
Conrad and Belly. Prime Video.
When will it air?
Season Two of The Summer I Turned Pretty launches with three episodes on July 14 on Prime Video with new episodes following weekly until the season finale on Friday 18.
Where can I watch the trailer?
Right here!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7KrN-Nx7ME
Season Two of The Summer I Turned Pretty launches with three episodes on July 14 on Prime Video with new episodes following weekly until the season finale on Friday 18.
If influencers and reality stars are your jam, then you’re going to love the cast list for the new season of The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition. And, if they’re not… well, better luck next year.
Amongst the crop of this year’s contestants are Netflix, Survivor, and Love Island stars as well as a few prominent influencers. There are also some accomplished TV hosts and popular comedians.
The contestants will race around the world while battling other teams to gain more followers and win prize money for their chosen charity.
Check out who will be competing on The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition.
Meet the cast of The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition.
Alli Simpson and mum Angie Simpson
Where you know them from: Alli is an actress and singer with over a million followers on Instagram. She is playing alongside mum, Angie, who is the mother popstar, Cody Simpson.
Where you know them from: Bec was thrust into the public eye when she wore a revealing dress to the Brownlow Medals which she attended with her now husband Chris Judd. She’s gone on to carve out a successful career in the media, counting being the host of Postcards and a weather presenter amongst her achievements. She’s also a popular influencer.
What charity they’re competing for: Impatient Advocacy – A Nicole Cooper Foundation.
Dane Simpson and Dad Bow Simpson
Where you know them from: Dane is a popular Australian comedian who’s featured on Channel Ten’s Have You Been Paying Attention?.
Where you know them from:George was on Survivor Brains v Brawn andSurvivor: Heroes v Villains. He’s largely considered one of the greatest strategic players the show has ever seen.
Where you know them from: Grant is one of Australia’s most well-known TV hosts, and lists Sunrise, Family Feud and Million Dollar Minute on his resume and Chezzi is a former TV executive producer and co-host of Chezzi and Grant’s It’s All True Podcast.
Where you know them from: Harrywas the breakout star from season one of Netflix’s Too Hot To Handle, and has racked up over four million Instagram followers since appearing on the show back in 2020. Teddy also has a background in reality TV, he appeared on season one of Love Island Australia.
Where you know them from: Jana has represented Australia twice in the hurdles event at the Olympics and has won 5 World titles and 4 Commonwealth gold medals.
Where you know them from: Peter is one of Australia’s most established comedians, and has appeared on Kath & Kim, Thank God You’re Here and has been the host of Can We Help?.
The Vanderpump Rules season ten reunion has been dubbed the “Superbowl of Reality TV” and part three certainly lived up to the hype.
The almost-hour-long episode finally saw Tom Sandoval and Racquel Leviss take to the stage, where they discussed their affair and was obliterated by their cast-mates.
The final episode for season ten also saw Ariana Maddix confront her friend and ex-boyfriend over their affair, and in true Ariana style, she threw some iconic insults their way.
The backstory
Without knowing what went down between the stars of the show, and why they’re so angry at each other, the reunion episodes are practically jibberish. So, let us get you up to speed.
Scandoval Recap
Sandoval and Ariana were dating for nine years. They own a house together and Ariana recently froze her eggs because Sandoval wanted a family.
Racquel dated James Kennedy for five years and the two were engaged but broke up in December 2021. Ariana and Racquel were close friends.
In March this year, Ariana found an explicit video from Racquel on Sandoval’s phone and discovered that the pair had been having an affair. The Vanderpump Rules reunion was filmed a few weeks later.
Ariana and Racquel at a party. Instagram.
Ariana’s one-liners ranked:
Considering the circumstances, Maddix stayed relatively calm and quiet during the first two parts of the season 10 reunion. However, she changed her tune when Sandoval and Racquel were both on stage together in part three.
Here are some of her most iconic one-liners!
1.” F**k yourself with a cheese grater.”
What happened: Racquel admitted that she encouraged Tom to evaluate whether he really wanted to be in a relationship with Ariana.
“The answer was yes and you had already f***ed him at that point so shut the f*** up,” Ariana responded. “Go f*** yourself with a f***ing cheese grater!”
2. “I hope Charlotte f**king haunts you.”
What happened: As previously mentioned, Ariana’s dog passed away and Racquel comforted her about it. Charlotte is the name of Ariana’s late pup.
3. “You’re a dementor, I know you love Harry Potter.”
What happened: Ariana revealed that she cried in Racquel’s arms after her dog died, and then her ex-friend went and slept with her boyfriend.
What happened: Ariana told Racquel that “selfish” doesn’t begin to describe what she had done.
“Selfish does not f**king cover it, b**ch,” she fired back. “Diabolical, demented, disgusting, subhuman—start getting a better vocabulary to describe your f**king actions because selfish does not f**king cover it.”
5. “It’s an abomination, abort it.”
Ariana at the VPR reunion. Hayu.
In one particularly heart-wrenching scene, Ariana broke down in tears while describing how she felt when she learned about the affair. She then begged the new couple to end their affair.
“I just can’t think of two worse people,” she told them both. “You’re disgusting. You’re gross, this is gross. When is it gonna click that it’s f***ing gross?!”
“It’s an abomination. Abort it,” added Ariana of Sandoval and Racquel’s affair. “It’s so f***ing awful.”
EVERYTHING that went down during the final VPR reunion episode for season 10
A whole damn lot. You can find out what happened in part one and part two of the three-part season 10 reunion here and here.
The final instalment saw the entire cast confront both Racquel and Sandoval together. Some of the most shocking moments included:
Ariana confronted Racquel and said that the word “selfish” doesn’t begin to cover the way she’s acted, and her former friend agreed.
Sandoval and Racquel admitted that they were in love.
Sandoval said that the last time he slept with now ex-girlfriend Ariana, she kept her top on. Here’s the disgusting line in all its glory: “Yeah and she kept her top on, that’s so hot.” EWWW.
Sandoval and Racquel were filmed giggling after the reunion together in the dressing room. Rather than reflecting on the hurt Ariana expressed she’d experienced, Racquel laughed that James told her his new girlfriend was an upgrade.
Racquel said that she asked Sandoval if she could be part of a throuple with him and Ariana.
Racquel admitted that she’d gone to St Louis and met Sandoval’s parents at Christmas.
Racquel revealed that Sandoval asked her to downplay their relationship timeline, but said they’d been lying about how long the affair had been going on, and admitted they hooked up “multiple times” at Scheana Shay’s wedding in August last year.
Racquel admitted that while Ariana was away for a funeral, she slept with Sandoval in the house the former couple share.
Racquel and Sandoval. Hayu.
You can stream the three-part Vanderpump Rules reunion on Hayu.
It’s episode 24 of MasterChef Australia 2023 and the final night of Home Cooks vs Pro Cooks Week.
The three remaining contenders, Brent, Theo and Rue went head-to-head against Serai’s finest – chef Ross Magnaye and his dream team, Shane Stafford and Leandro Miranda.
The cooks started with 75 minutes and after every four minutes, a new cluster of ingredients would be revealed. Cooks could start at any time.
In this challenge, the stakes were high and the clock was ticking. With time shrinking and ingredients multiplying, contestants battled it out to avoid being in Sunday’s elimination.
Team Serai vs Brent, Rue and Theo. Ten
The Cook + Ingredients and Time Revealed
The first set of ingredients was revealed as Pantry Staples including butter, flour, cream and milk with no takers. Next, up were fresh aromatics including ginger, horseradish and garlic plus the staples. Once again there were no takers.
The third cluster was wine and grape-related things including Prosecco, Chardonnay, Shiraz and red grapes. 12 minutes was taken off the clock. Then fresh veggies were revealed including kipfler potatoes, broccoli, carrots and mushrooms, with no takers.
With 59 minutes left to cook, beef was unveiled and Theo decided to take on the challenge with everything that was on offer. Serai chef Leandro also decided to cook.
Theo. Ten
Even though he “should have waited”, Theo chose to make Stuffed Mushroom with Sirloin Steak and Bone Marrow Butter.
Next to be unveiled was fruit and Rue said it was her “time to shine”. She decided to use blueberries and lemon in her dish of Lemon Parfait, Blueberry Lemon Ginger Compote and Blueberry Sorbet with Meringue shards.
A full selection of seaweed was then revealed and with 47 minutes left, quail and quail eggs were on offer. Brent decided to “stay strong”, even after spices were unveiled. Grains were then put on the table and Chef Ross took the bait with 39 minutes to cook.
He started on his Roasted Bone Marrow plus Filipino-inspired Beef Tartae and a Spiced Butter Dressing.
Chef Leandro began making his onion jam and sauteed his mushrooms, while Judge Mel Leong was concerned about the time that Rue had to set all of her components.
Rue. Ten
The Cook — Part Two
With 35 minutes left, Chef Shane grabbed his opportunity when seafood was revealed; however, Brent had still not chosen to start.
Finally, with 31 minutes on the clock, Brent was presented with caviar, the “kind of ingredient that would take my dish to the next level”.
He decided on a Stuffed Zucchini Flower with Scampi and Bug with Seaweed Mayo on the side, while chef Leandro admitted his crush on Judge Mel. Cute!
Chef Ross continued with his spiced butter dressing and with 15 minutes on the clock, Theo was pleased with his steak and mushrooms cooked on the Hibachi grill.
Theo’s steak. Ten.
Meanwhile, Rue was increasingly stressed over her dessert, with Judge Jock Zonfrillo concerned she was “doing too much”. She decided to forget the sorbet.
Over on Brent’s bench, he was worried he’d bitten off more than he could chew.
With eight minutes to go, Brent was going as fast as he could before deciding to “back himself”. Leandro was happy with the way his dish was going and Shane’s dish was also coming together.
Theo then became concerned that he didn’t have enough acidity to balance out his dish and with one minute to go, it was time for Rue to motor!
The Judging
Ross was up first with his Beef Kilawin (Filipino Beef Tartare) and Bone Marrow Butter.
Jock gave him his infamous applause, saying that the bone marrow was “cooked beautifully” and the dish was “delicious”, while Judge Andy Allen said that it was “flat-out cooking” and that it was “an absolute belter”.
Chef Ross’ dish. Ten
Next up, the judges tried Rue’s dessert. She wasn’t happy with what she presented and sweetly self-soothed.
Her dish of Lemon Parfait with Meringue and Blueberry Compote was half-well received, with Jock absolutely loving her compote; however, Andy said she didn’t give herself enough time.
Rue’s dish. Ten
Chef Leandro served his Wagyu Steak with Smoked Bone Marrow Butter and Mushrooms, saying it was “one of my dreams to cook in the MasterChef kitchen”.
Andy called his steak “perfectly cooked” and Jock said the butter “was absolutely delicious”.
Chef Leandro’s dish. Ten
Theo then presented his Wagyu Steak with Stuffed Mushrooms and Bone Marrow Butter; however, was once again worried about the balance of ingredients.
Jock said his steak was “really well done”; however, noted that the acidity was missing. Andy agreed that he’d cooked his protein really well.
Theo’s dish. Ten
Chef Shane was up next, with his Moreton Bay Bug, Palapa Butter and Fruit Salsa.
“It looks like a picture, mate,” Jock said while Andy commented on the delicious aroma.
While it may have looked simple, Jock added that it was so “complex” and “delicious” and Mel said that it was a “casual flex” to have so much flavour.
“It’s a perfect dish,” she said.
Shane’s dish. Ten
Finally, Brent delivered his Stuffed Zucchini Flowers with Scampi and Moreton Bay Bug and Caviar.
Mel called him a “Danger Man” for waiting until the end with Jock also giving him his well-deserved applause.
“This is why it pays off to wait until the end. It’s so good,” he said.
Mel called the texture “bouncy”, bringing a “complexity of flavour” while Andy said: “I loved it”.
Brent’s dish. Ten
The Verdict
The top three dishes were awarded to Brent and Serai chefs, Ross and Shane.
Given that two chefs from the Pros team were victorious, it meant that Brent, Theo and Rue would be going into Sunday’s elimination.
But all was not lost as Brent, who had the least amount of time, delivered “one of the best dishes” he had ever cooked in the MasterChef kitchen!
MasterChef Australia 2023continues at 7.30pm on Thursday, June 8 on 10 and 10Play.
The new Stan Original documentary Revealed:The Cape has all the makings of a great drama – crime, mysterious disappearances, and a small-town love triangle – except, it’s true.
Twenty years on from the disappearance of 36-year-old Bevin Simmonds and his 10-year-old son Brad, The Cape takes a look into what happened in the lead-up to that fateful day, as well as the dramatic aftermath.
Directed by Emmy Award-nominated filmmakers, Michael Ware and Justine A. Rosenthal, the doco is one of four new projects under Stan’s Revealed banner, which is a collection of documentaries and non-fiction investigative content produced by the streaming giant.
“There is so much yet to know, so much unanswered about the events swirling about the morning Bevin and Brad Simmonds vanished off the face of the earth,” Rosenthal said in a statement of the upcoming documentary.
“We hope this film carries their story onwards and brings new vision to an agony that still scars one of Australia’s most rugged, remote, and virtually lawless regions.”
The Cape directors Michael Ware and Justine A. Rosenthal. Stan.
What crime is Revealed: The Cape about?
On June 5, 2003, Bevin and his son Brad Simmonds went out on a fishing boat to the river south of Pormpuraaw to check shark nets and were never seen again. Since their disappearance, no murder weapon, bodies, or even the boat they went out on have ever been found.
Rival fisherman Michael Gater and his mother Joan Betty Gater were charged with the murders of the two males but were acquitted after a two-week trial.
During the hearing, a history of feuds and an affair between Michael and the victim’s wife Cathy Simmonds was uncovered, and to this day the case has never been solved.
In another twist, Bevin’s close friend Brian Dunnett – who vowed to avenge the death of his mate – was found shot dead five years after the initial disappearance.
The area Ben and Brad Simmonds went missing. Stan.
Where can I watch it?
The Cape premieres on June 18 exclusively on Stan.
Is there a trailer?
Yes, there is. You can watch it below:
Stan Original Documentary Revealed: The Cape airs June 18 on Stan.
If you experienced a severe case of deja vu when Sean Wepener popped up on screen in the first episode of FBoy Island, then we’re here to inform you that you’re not going crazy.
It’s not the adult entertainer’s first foray into reality TV, he actually appeared in last year’s season of Heartbreak Island Australia.
Sean was dropped onto the island as a Disruptor, which is basically Heartbreak Island’s answer to Love Island‘s bombshells. The disruptors are sent into the show throughout the season, with the goal of breaking up some of the current couples on a quest to find love.
Meanwhile, Sean has so far played a major part on FBoy Island.
Molly O’Halloran has shown interest in him but was thrown off when he took centre-stage at the first elimination to slam Caleb Duncan over a disgusting comment he’d made about Molly behind her back.
Sean and Molly on F Boy Island. Instagram.
Was Sean a player on Heartbreak Island?
Those who are rooting for Sean on FBoy Island will be pleased to know that Sean was involved in one of the strongest relationships on the show. The (two-time!) reality star originally paired up with a contestant named Ariana. He later ended up finding love with fellow Disruptor Natasha Boon.
Sean and Natasha left the show together and dated briefly in the real world, but ended up splitting up.
Sean and Natasha on Heartbreak Island Australia. Instagram.
Is Sean an FBoy or Good Guy?
None of the remaining contestants on FBoy Island has officially been confirmed to be FBoys or Nice Guys. However, it’s pretty obvious that some of them (like Caleb!) are solely there for the money.
The jury’s still out on Sean. While his career choice of being an adult entertainer does scream FBoy, his actions on the show do suggest that he’s genuinely interested in Molly.
When and where can I watch Sean on FBoy Island?
You can stream FBoy Island on Binge with two new episodes dropping every Monday.
New seasons of Below Deck can be scary; are we going to be stuck with a dud crew for the entire season or can we expect spicy scandals galore?
Well, going by the brand-new trailer for season two of Below Deck Down Under, the new drop looks like it could be one of the wildest of the entire franchise.
Over three minutes of (almost) R-rated antics from the new crew, we see Captain Jason Chambers serve charter guests in a pair of budgie smugglers, and Chief Stew Aesha Scott pretend to give a blow job to a cocktail shaker.
Captain Jason. Bravo
We also watch a late-night firing go down and are informed about a romantic entanglement between five of the crew members.
“So Harry[Van Vliet] likes Margot[Sisson], who likes Luke[Jones], and Laura[Bileskaine] likes Adam[Lukasiewicz] but also wants Luke, it’s a love pentagon,” Aesha explains.
Harry, Margot, Luke, Laura and Adam. Bravo.
Elsewhere in the trailer, Aesha makes it pretty damn clear that this season will centre around booze and partying.
“We get to drink tomorrow!” she excitedly exclaims before the camera cuts to Bosun Luke.
“The first thing I thought of when I got out of bed was money and alcohol,” he tells Aesha.
So, when can we tune in to watch all the shenanigans unfold?
When does Below Deck season two air?
The new season will air on July 17 in the US, with an expected drop for us on the same day, which makes it July 18, on HayU.
Who’s in the crew?
The cast of Below Deck season two is mostly made up of newcomers, with the exception of Chief Stew Aesha and Captain Jason. Aesha actually zipped off to the superyacht to film the season straight after she was evicted on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here Australia.
The two BD veterans will be joined by Bileskaine and Sisson in the interior and Lukasiewicz and Van Vliet on deck.
Jones will take the helm as Bosun and Tzarina Mace-Ralph will be cooking up a storm as the chef.
Where can I watch the trailer?
Right here!
Below Deck Down Under season two airs on Hayu on July 18.
