Independent Australian news and analysis across politics, business, technology, world affairs and culture
Few performers leave such a strong imprint with deadpan delivery and a thousand-yard stare that you immediately recognize them in any role. Aubrey Plaza built a career on playing characters who seem completely unfazed, but her real life has involved moments that were anything but scripted. This article separates verified facts from the rumor mill, … Read more
If you grew up with a red-and-white-striped character named Waldo, you might be surprised to learn that the rest of the world knows him as Wally. The story behind that name swap reveals a fascinating clash of cultures, marketing decisions, and even a few controversies. First published: 1987 (UK) · Original series books: 7 · … Read more
When you first see Brandon Sklenar on screen as Spencer Dutton in 1923, there’s something instantly magnetic about him — a calm intensity that feels both old and new. He’s not yet a household name, but his résumé is quietly stacking up: from indie films to the Yellowstone prequel, Sklenar is on the verge of … Read more
If you’ve tuned into Australian breakfast radio anytime recently, you’ve likely heard Tommy Little’s voice cracking jokes alongside Carrie Bickmore. But behind the on-air banter is a comedian whose personal life — from an ADHD diagnosis to his relationship status — has become just as talked about as his stand-up sets. Here’s what we actually … Read more
Anyone who has ever slipped on a pair of Dr. Martens and spent the next week hobbling from heel pain knows the boot’s central paradox: it looks tough, but your feet might not feel the same. With the 1460 boot celebrating its 65th anniversary in 2025 and the brand pulling in £1.1 billion in annual … Read more
Anyone who’s been part of an AFL tipping competition knows the mix of optimism and dread that comes with picking winners each round. With over 2 million Australians in footy tipping pools, the race to beat the average is fiercer than ever. Australians in footy tipping competitions: over 2 million · Most popular platform: FootyTips.com.au … Read more
There’s a 6’6″ power forward who once grabbed a league-leading rebound average while being the shortest player ever to do it — Charles Barkley. Over 1,073 regular-season games he averaged 22.1 points and 11.7 rebounds per game, and yet his exact height still sparks debate. Height: 6’6″ (1.98 m) · Weight: 252 lb (114 kg) … Read more
Few footballers have taken a path quite like Jamie Vardy’s, from non-league obscurity to Premier League champion, but his story took another turn when he swapped Leicester for a surprising Serie A adventure. Off the pitch, a fractured friendship, a public legal battle, and a family rift have added layers of drama. Age: 38 (born … Read more
If you’ve watched Bridgerton, you’ve probably wondered about the woman behind Philippa Featherington’s wide-eyed charm. Harriet Cains brings a layered performance to the Featherington family, but her career extends far beyond the ballrooms of Regency London. From BBC Three’s zombie drama In the Flesh to Netflix’s global phenomenon, she’s built a steady screen career while … Read more
Dean Lewis built a career on heartbreak anthems that comfort millions, but in 2024 his own story took a darker turn. Misconduct allegations surfaced online, creating a stark contrast between the vulnerable songwriter and the person those claims describe. Real name: Grant Loaney · Total streams: 7.5 billion+ · Breakout single: “Waves” (2016) · Most … Read more