Australian Story

Celeste Barber has amassed a global fanbase of 9.6 million for her parodies of celebrities and influencers on social media, where she reminds women not to buy into unattainable beauty standards. But while humour has been key to her phenomenal rise, Celeste's own story is one of struggle and self-doubt. Her formative years were damaged by undiagnosed ADHD, resulting in Celeste being badly bullied in her early teens. While her neurodiversity was the genesis of her stage and screen success, it remains an ongoing battle for the celebrated performer.

Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price is popular, polarising and outspoken — a rising star in Coalition ranks who helped steer the No campaign to victory in the Voice referendum. Within the Indigenous community, her critics feel betrayed by her controversial comments about colonisation, culture and violence; her supporters say she's brave and bold. With the election imminent, questions are being asked about what it would mean should she become the next Minister for Indigenous Australians. In this episode, the former singer and children's television presenter responds to her critics and speaks for the first time about her drug use and the deeply personal experiences that have shaped her political views.

This insightful reflection on grief and love ponders the thorny question, when is an appropriate time is to re-partner after loss? Col and Laura both lost their cherished spouses to sudden cardiac arrest. Consumed by grief, neither was looking for love. But after a chance encounter in an online group for young widows and widowers, one thing led to another. And now, together as a new couple, there’s another surprise in store.

From his colourful outfits to his incisive writing, Bharat Sundaresan has taken the Australian cricket world by storm. But this sense of belonging has been a lifetime in the making. Born and raised in India, Bharat grew up unable to express himself, desperate for affection and punished for standing out. When forced to conform, Bharat spiralled into addiction. Cricket saved his life. His reporting on the sport has seen him internationally renowned with millions of followers, but it’s in Australia that he’s building a stunning second innings.

When acclaimed portrait artist Vincent Fantauzzo first appeared on Australian Story in 2019 to talk about his dyslexia, he wasn’t able to reveal the full extent of his story. But the death of his father prompted Vincent to face the dark truths of his childhood, and cemented his commitment to stop the cycle of dysfunction. After finally finding the role model he longed for in actor Heath Ledger’s father Kim, Vincent is giving his own sons an upbringing that is vastly different to his own.

Dave Hughes is one of the country’s most hardworking and successful comedians, winning over audiences for 30 years with his hilarious and brutally honest revelations about his life. In this program, he channels that same honesty, revealing terrifying moments from his childhood, why he gave up alcohol and the toll his obsession with work and fame has taken on his family life.