Table of contents for Issue 26, 2025 in New Idea

It’s been a jam-packed week in Hollywood, that’s for sure! After her travels around Australia on tour (lucky you if you managed to get tickets!), Katy’s Perry’s romance with Orlando Bloom has been called into question (page 22). But as one relationship reportedly struggles, another has been saved – seeing Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt hamming it up on the red carpet in London was definitely not on my bingo card (page 18). Who could forget their famous fallout over 30 years ago?! Speaking of fallouts, Hugh Jackman and Deborra-lee Furness have finalised their divorce at long last, Cruz Beckham has thrown shade at big brother Brooklyn, and Kelsey Grammer has some exciting news to share with his fans. So put your feet up, pour a cup of tea and…

She’s found fame and fortune thanks to her long career as an actress, but Brenda Blethyn has revealed she grew up in abject poverty post-World War II. “We were very poor,” the Vera star shared during an interview which aired recently on Channel Seven’s Spotlight. “We lived in a slum actually.” Brenda, 79, was raised in Ramsgate, Kent, the youngest of nine siblings. In a previous 2022 interview, she also explained, “The whole lot of us were crammed into a house with only two bedrooms. “There was only cold water and an outside lavatory. There was no electricity.” But Brenda also said at the same time her parents were very loving and that she would perform “little plays” for amusement which fostered her “lust for entertaining”. Brenda began her acting…

New Idea recently revealed that Andy Allen and his wife, Alexandra, have purchased a flash new two-storey house in Melbourne’s Inner North. Now, the MasterChef judge has announced that he and Alex hope to hear the patter of little feet in their $3.85 million home! In a new interview with The Daily Telegraph, Andy, 37, confirmed that babies are hopefully on the horizon. “My family and my wife [are very important],” he told the publication. “I’m hoping one day I’ll have a family of my own with Alex, which will be nice.” Andy, who became a MasterChef judge in 2020 after winning the competition in 2012, met Alex at a party shortly after he claimed victory. They reconnected a few years later and started dating, eventually marrying in 2022 in…

It’s a tough economic climate out there – anyone who’s anyone knows that. But while the vast majority of the country continues to pray for more rate cuts and relief as the cost of living keeps skyrocketing, it seems the same cannot be said for Channel Nine’s golden boy, Karl Stefanovic. And this time, even his colleagues, many of whom he calls his very best mates, are finally seeing red. Last week, The Australian reported that Karl, 50, has all but signed on the dotted line for a $3-million-a-year deal with Nine. The multi-year contract will see the Today host pocket a tidy pay rise, after he was believed to have signed a $2.8 million a year deal back in 2022. Whether or not the $3 million speculation is accurate,…

Elizabeth Hurley and Billy Ray Cyrus’ families happily intermingled at the launch of his daughter Miley’s new album in London on June 21. But the outing has Liz’s ex, Hugh Grant, on high alert. Although they ended their own romance several decades ago, Hugh and Liz are still the best of friends. He is a godfather to her son Damian, 23, and he remains one of her closest confidants. “Hugh is concerned,” a source confirms to New Idea. “Not only is this relationship progressing very quickly, but Hugh is worried that Liz is now being dragged into the Cyrus family circus – and he’s convinced it’s not going to end well.” Drama does seem to follow the ‘Achy Breaky Heart’ crooner. In 2022, Billy, 63, ended his nearly 30-year marriage…

Shirley Glance has never let her disability shape her identity – and she refuses to let her age do the same. Living with the effects of post-polio since she was 14 months old, Shirley, now 72, has used a walker for most of her life, and has grown accustomed to the many assumptions that comes with it. It’s why she was determined to reflect on her experiences in a new community-compiled cookbook, Recipes for Respect, which sees 13 women sharing their stories and treasured family recipes. Despite the essential role women play in their communities, Shirley still believes there is a fundamental problem when it comes to a lack of recognition for females in society, especially as they become ‘seniors’. “People see me walking down the street and think, ‘Oh,…

Just weeks after they finally confirmed they have indeed found love together, Married at First Sight stars Awhina Rutene and Billy Belcher have been spotted playing happy families with her son! New Idea spied the couple enjoying a fun day out with Awhina’s six-year-old son Landon, in their hometown of Perth, WA, in June. Billy, 31, looked every inch the doting ‘stepdad’ as he, Awhina and Landon grabbed food at a local café and played at a park. Awhina famously opted to not introduce Landon to her MAFS husband, Adrian Araouzou, during filming – especially after Adrian made comments about not wanting to be in a long-term relationship with a mother. However, she clearly had no such qualms about her boy meeting Billy, who was initially matched with Sierah Swepstone.…

Naomi Watts is set to portray Jackie Kennedy in the series – but the actress’ close pal, Nicole Kidman, wonders if it’s the right move. “Nicole’s in awe of Naomi taking on this role,” an insider tells New Idea. “Not only is it controversial, but Nicole will always be nervous about biopics, given her own history with them.” Having been slammed for playing Grace Kelly, and then upsetting half of Hollywood when she was announced as Lucille Ball, Nicole, 58, is worried Naomi, 56, is “risking a lot” by portraying the former First Lady. “Nicole also knows how hard it was for Naomi to be vilified when she played Princess Diana [in the 2013 film],” adds the insider. “Jackie Kennedy is such an iconic figure too, beloved all around the…

Kelsey Grammer is no doubt busy replying ‘Cheers’ to the many messages of congratulations – and surprise – he has likely received since it was publicly revealed he’s becoming a dad for the eighth time! The happy news was confirmed when the actor was seen out with his heavily-pregnant wife, Kayte Walsh, in London recently. Kayte, Kelsey’s fourth wife, is said to be due in a matter of weeks. On the subject of fatherhood, Kelsey, 70, once told People magazine, “It’s the greatest experience in the world – the joy every day of being with my kids.” The star of Cheers and Frasier became a dad for the first time in 1983. He and first wife Doreen Alderman welcomed their daughter Spencer, now 41. In 1992, his second daughter Greer,…

Chicken and Potato Dill Stew SERVES 6-8 PREP & COOK 1 HOUR 15 MINS ■ 60g butter, plus an extra knob ■ 1.2kg chicken cuts such as thighs, drumsticks and wings, or a 1-1.3kg whole chicken divided into portions ■ 1 onion or leek, finely diced ■ 2 carrots, thinly sliced into half-moons or quarters ■ 1kg potatoes, peeled and chopped into smallish pieces ■ 1 bay leaf ■ ½ large bunch of dill, fronds chopped ■ salt and pepper 1 Place a large stockpot over a medium-high heat and melt half the butter. 2 Roughly chop the larger pieces of chicken, like the thighs and breasts – the drumsticks and wings can go in whole. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook on each side for 3-4…

BLOOMING DELICIOUS Elevate your culinary creations with Bloomish’s new collection of freeze-dried edible flowers – 14 new varieties to sprinkle on your salads, sweets and drinks. Storable for six months, organically grown and safe to eat, they’ll be your new pantry hero. Pop straight into your buttercream icing (no taping required). As if you needed an excuse to host a party. Available at bloomish.co from $19.95. WHAT IS SRIRACHA? Sriracha is a hot chilli sauce made from a paste of red chillies, distilled vinegar, garlic, sugar and salt. It’s named after the Thai coastal city of Si Racha, where it originated. In Thailand it’s used as a dipping sauce – you’ll find it on almost every restaurant table. In Vietnam it’s commonly used as a condiment for the famous soup,…

FOR THE WEEKEND Pair your blazer with a relaxed knit, jeans and casual sneakers for a comfy off-duty look. TIP Opt for a neutral colour that will suit any occasion. This season, we’re loving warm browns and espresso shades. FOR WORK Style with an all-black ensemble and pair with some fun chunky loafers for an office-ready outfit. Compiled by Stephanie De Nobile. Stockists: bigw.com.au, forevernew.com.au, hm.com, marksandspencer.com/au, sussan.com.au, target.com.au, vans.com.au…

David Corenswet Swapping his tights and cape for a suave suit, the new Clark Kent and his co-star, Rachel Brosnahan, headed to Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, to promote their version of Superman. Geena Davis Move over, Louise – Thelma’s got a new bestie by her side! The Thelma & Louise star posed with everyone’s favourite Muppet, Elmo, at a film festival in Arkansas, USA. Sandra Oh This former TV doctor is now … a doctor! Grey’s Anatomy star Sandra was proud to receive an honorary doctorate from Ivy League Dartmouth College in New Hampshire. Glen Powell The actor had us seeing double on the Glasgow set of his next movie, Ghostwriter, thanks to his look-alike stunt double! Rachel Zegler Currently starring in Evita on the West End, Rachel put on…

When a sombre and solo Hailey Bieber stepped out in New York last week – minus her wedding and engagement rings – talk that her marriage to Justin Bieber was in trouble reached a crescendo. This was followed by a social media post from Justin which read, “B---h, if you’re giving me the silent treatment at least tell me why!” While there’s no confirmation that the message was directed at model Hailey, it further raised concerns. “[They’re] struggling,” a source told Entertainment Tonight last week. “Justin feels like Hailey can be superficial about the way their relationship looks in the public eye, and [his] apparent lack of motivation has been upsetting for her.” Hailey, 28, and Justin, 31, wed in 2019 and welcomed a son, Jack Blues, last August. Since…

Despite putting on the bravest of faces outwardly, New Idea has learnt the Duchess of Sussex is struggling to deal with the lacklustre reception to her latest podcast offering and ongoing criticisms about her As Ever products. But last week, Meghan, 43, was dealt another blow, this time closer to home, when her husband, the Duke of Sussex, gave his clearest signal yet that he intends to try and reconcile with the royal family – whether she likes it or not. According to the Mail On Sunday, Prince Harry, 40, plans on inviting his estranged father, King Charles and older brother, the Prince of Wales, to join him at the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham, UK. It’s a move that has “blindsided” Meghan, a source tells New Idea. “Harry’s already…

While Miley enjoyed a family turnout for her launch party in London, her mum, Tish, was one notable absentee. “They have always been close, so it was a surprise that Tish wasn’t [there],” a source tells New Idea. Instead, a preoccupied Tish, 58, was spotted running errands in Laguna, California, over the same weekend. “It’s not been easy for Tish to see Billy back on the A-list scene, alongside Liz, again,” our source says. “She also knows Miley has reconciled with her father. Tish is happy for them, but it’s been difficult to see Miley playing nice with Liz too, especially when her relationship with Billy Ray is still so new.”…

The last 12 months have been a rollercoaster for Osher Günsberg. He readily admits the May 2024 cancellations of both The Bachelor and The Masked Singer – shows he hosted – were significant setbacks. But relying on the resilience he’s cultivated over the years, he’s found the determination to move forward. Having a sudden opening in his 2025 schedule also meant Osher could say “yes” to this year’s Dancing with the Stars – although, after three hip replacement operations and an osteoarthritis diagnosis, he wasn’t 100 per cent sure he’d be able to handle the demands! “When I got the call, my first thought was there’s no way I can do this … but I’m going to say yes,” Osher, 51, tells New Idea. “I also try and live by…

Padding down the hospital ward with his tail wagging and head held high, Harry the cocker spaniel leaves a trail of smiles behind him. The 11-year-old pooch was a champion show dog before he traded his ribbons for regular visits to Canberra Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in 2018. Since then he’s become a beloved fixture in the ward, providing comfort, cuddles and a sense of calm to its vulnerable patients. Harry’s owner, Megan Kelly, says it was love at first sight when she met Harry with his breeder at a park seven years ago. “As soon as I met Harry, I knew he was too amazing not to share, so I decided to get him certified as a therapy dog,” Megan tells New Idea. “A visit from Harry often…

Jam Donut Pudding SERVES 6 PREP & COOK 1 HOUR 10 MINS ■ 250g punnet strawberries, hulled, halved ■ 2 cups (240g) frozen raspberries ■ ²⁄³ cup raspberry jam ■ Icing sugar, ground cinnamon, whipped cream, to serve VICTORIA SPONGE ■ 180g butter, chopped, softened ■ ¾ cup caster sugar ■ 2 tsp vanilla extract ■ 4 eggs ■ 1 cup self-raising flour ■ 1 tsp baking powder ■ ¼ cup milk 1 Combine strawberries, raspberries, jam and 2 tbsp water in a bowl. Spread over the base of an ovenproof dish (8-cup capacity). 2 VICTORIA SPONGE Beat butter, sugar and vanilla in small bowl of an electric mixer until pale and creamy. Add eggs, one at a time. Beat until combined. Transfer to a large bowl. Stir in sifted…

YOUR GUIDE TO FLAWLESS FLUSHED CHEEKS Cream, liquid, or powder… these days we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a blush. And while we love variety, it can be hard to know the right formula and shade for your skin type and tone. Not to fret! We’ve put together a cheeky guide to help you find the best blush for your complexion. TIP To make blush last from day to night, prep your base with a primer and lock in makeup with a hydrating setting spray. CREAM Known for their buildable nature, cream blushes are ideal for dry skin types mainly due to their velvety texture that seamlessly glides over skin. For a dewy glow, apply over the high points of your cheek bones and blend, or opt…

EDITORIAL Editorial Director Erin Holohan, Deputy Editor Leigh Credlin, Art Director Katie Garside, Picture Editor Matthew Mackay ARE MEDIA Chief Executive Officer Jane Huxley, Director of Sales Anna Quinn, Director of Content Sally Eagle, General Manager Entertainment Susan Armstrong, Commercial Brand Manager Jessica Ashworth, Director of Marketing Carly Bowra Subscription enquiries: Customer Service 136 116 (Mon-Fri 8am-6pm AEST) International +61 2 9692 3535 Email magshop@magshop.com.au Website www.magshop.com.au Advertising enquiries: advertising@aremedia.com.au Published by Are Media Pty Limited (ABN 18 053 273 546), 54-58 Park Street, Sydney, NSW 2000. ©2025. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without prior written permission. New Idea is a registered trade mark of Are Media. Use of trademark strictly prohibited. Licensing Inquiries: www.contentshop.com.au / syndication@aremedia.com.au Printed by IVE…

1 Gilmore Girls actor Scott Patterson currently stars in which TV drama? A) The Four Seasons B) Nine Perfect Strangers C) Sullivan’s Crossing D) And Just Like That… 2 Which company makes the National Rugby League’s official football? A) Steeden B) Gilbert C) Sherrin D) Canterbury 3 Which author wrote the epic 2015 novel A Little Life? A) Gillian Flynn B) Hanya Yanagihara C) Elena Ferrante D) Kate Atkinson 4 What is the most expensive spice in the world? A) Vanilla B) Green cardamom C) Nutmeg D) Saffron 5 Members of what religion are expressly forbidden from becoming monarch of Britain? A) Judaism B) Islam C) Catholicism D) Buddhism 6 Lisa McCune won the TV Week Gold Logie four consecutive years for her role on what TV show? A) Blue…

Tiger Lily Hutchence Geldof has welcomed her first child with husband Ben Archer, with sources telling New Idea it’s a bittersweet time for the new mum. While it’s unclear when exactly Tiger, 28, gave birth, she and Ben were spotted pushing their new bundle of joy around their London neighbourhood several times last week. On one occasion, a blue blanket was seen poking out of the stroller, leading many to speculate they might have welcomed a son. Tiger lost both her parents, Aussie INXS frontman Michael Hutchence and British TV presenter Paula Yates, at a young age. She was then adopted by her mum’s ex, Sir Bob Geldof. “There’s no doubt Michael and Paula would be ecstatic [at becoming grandparents]” reveals our source. “Tiger was toying with honouring them somehow…

The youngest Beckham son has taken a spicy dig at the eldest as their alleged family feud rages on. Cruz, 20, recently shared a video of his single ‘For Ya Love’ on TikTok. He then replied to a comment asking about his next move – by mocking Brooklyn, 26. The commenter asked, “Are you going to stick with this or become a race car driver next?” Cruz sniped, “Wrong brother, mate.” It seemed to be a reference to Brooklyn’s many short-lived business endeavours, as well as his new interest in racing. Ouch!…

CRUISING TO A REUNION Brad Pitt had a surprise supporter at the London premiere of F1: The Movie on June 23 – his old foe, Tom Cruise! The pair put on an amiable (and animated!) display as they traded hugs and jokes on the red carpet, giving no hint at the past beef between them. It’s been decades since Tom and Brad were in the same room together, let alone seen getting on like a house on fire. The A-listers reportedly fell out 31 years ago while making their 1994 film Interview with the Vampire. Insiders say their differing personalities and work styles led to tensions on set. Brad described Tom, who turns 63 this week, as being “North Pole” while he was “South”. But it seems time heals all…

Amid the scrutiny about her engagement status, Katy escaped tour life and headed to Queensland where she paid Robert Irwin a visit at Australia Zoo. In between cuddles with the local wildlife, Katy and Robert shared a playful moment where they tried to do a waltz. When Robert accidentally dropped Katy while trying to dip her, she joked, “Maybe stick to the animals!”…

More than 25 years have passed since John F. Kennedy Jr. and his wife, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, died in a horrific 1999 plane crash. But in the decades since, the tragic couple’s allure has not dimmed. Which is why there is so much interest – and controversy – surrounding an upcoming Hollywood miniseries about their relationship. American Love Story, the new anthology series from Ryan Murphy, will, according to an official press release, explore JFK Jr. and Carolyn’s “sweeping true love story”. Filming is currently underway in New York, with the series slated for release during the week of Valentine’s Day 2026. But while fans of the couple, who were just 38 and 33 when they died alongside Carolyn’s older sister Lauren Bessette, have praised the casting of unknown actor Paul…

After meeting on Season 1 of LEGO®Masters Australia in 2019, Miller Keys and Kaitlyn Lee have quietly taken the next step in building their lives together – tying the knot in a ceremony that combined their love of the blocks … and each other! The couple, both 26, wed on October 18 last year, in front of 70 of their family and friends at the Japanese Garden at Melbourne Zoo. Now well and truly settled into married life, Kaitlyn, an industrial designer, tells New Idea their special day was truly “a fairytale”. Miller adds: “It was surreal. I was so incredibly nervous but as soon as I saw Kaitlyn the nerves disappeared. It was like the world came back to me.” ‘Our wedding favours were Minifigures’ When it came to…

SIMPLE AND SATISFYING EATS TO HIT THE SPOT SERVES 4-6PREP & COOK 35 MINS ■ 2 chorizo, finely chopped ■ 1 small onion, finely chopped ■ 2 cloves garlic, crushed ■ 1 tsp smoked paprika ■ 2 x 400g cans cannellini beans,Chorizo and Beans on Toastdrained, rinsed ■ 400g can crushed tomatoes ■ 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce ■ Tabasco sauce, to taste ■ Chargrilled sourdough bread, grated parmesan and olive oil, to serve 1 Heat an oiled, large frying pan over a medium heat. Add chorizo, onion and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4 mins, or until onion is soft and chorizo is crisp. Add paprika. Cook, stirring, for 1 min. 2 Stir in beans, tomatoes,Worcestershire sauce and ½ cup water. Bring to boil. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for about…