Table of contents for Issue 45, 2025 in New Idea

David Harbour was lucky to even appear in the new series of Stranger Things, says an insider, after reports claim his co-star, Millie Bobby Brown, filed a complaint against him months before filming started on the fifth and final season in 2024. Millie, 21, alleges on-set bullying and harassment from David, 50, according to a Daily Mail report. Her claims, which do not involve sexual misconduct, stem from David’s alleged “verbal outbursts” and “intimidating” behaviour toward her during production breaks. After an investigation, the issue was resolved amicably without halting filming. “The timing couldn’t be worse. David doesn’t need resolved issues from the past being thrown at him when he’s already facing a complete reputational collapse, thanks to [ex-wife] Lily Allen’s new album,” adds the source.…

Life goes on. That’s the “good attitude” Nicole Kidman has reportedly adopted as the dust settles following her divorce from Keith Urban – which is why she’s already dipping a toe back into the dating pool. Late last month, it was revealed that the actress’ girlfriends are eager to set her up with some eligible bachelors. Now, New Idea’s exclusive insider reveals that news was music to Orlando Bloom’s ears – as he’s champing at the bit to wine and dine Nicole! Orlando, 48, is wasting no time licking his wounds after his own ex, pop star Katy Perry, confirmed her new relationship with former Canadian prime minister, Justin Trudeau. “Orlando has Nicole at the top of his dream-date wish list,” reveals our source. “And not just because of her…

Fifty years ago this month, a pilot episode aired on screens that would quickly lead to a global TV phenomenon. But Wonder Woman was so much more than an action-packed superhero series. It revolutionised the genre, paving the way for women to be front and centre, rather than just a helpless girlfriend or sidekick. As the titular heroine, actress Lynda Carter also became a powerful role model for girls – and boys – alike. “[It] worked because it wasn’t all about brawn – it was about brains,” Lynda, who is now 74, once said. “I’m thrilled that the series and the character have endured because every actor wants a role that has some positive affect and causes people to smile.” The character first appeared in DC Comics in 1941. By…

Only in New Idea Working with a partner might spell disaster for most, but not for Charlie Albone and Juliet Love! The couple first met doing a screen test for their 2009 TV show, The Party Garden, and they’ve now teamed up again on a new project, The Living Edit, in a full-circle moment. “It feels very natural for us,” Juliet tells New Idea. While Charlie and Juliet are also both part of the current Better Homes and Gardens cast, the reality is they only see each other on set once or twice a year. “Our shoots are on very different days and at very different locations,” Charlie, who is also our gardening columnist, explains. “It’s nice to know what the other one is doing, but we don’t really work…

GET READY FOR Christmas 6 WEEKS TO GO! Lemon and Almond Bundt Cake SERVES 10 PREP & COOK 1 HOUR 15 MINS ■ 250g butter, chopped, softened ■ 1½ cups caster sugar ■ 1 tbsp finely grated lemon rind ■ 4 eggs, at room temperature ■ 1½ cups almond meal ■ 2½ cups self-raising flour ■ 1¼ cups buttermilk ■ 125g punnet raspberries, to decorate ICING ■ 1¾ cups icing sugar mixture, plus extra for dusting ■ 2 tbsp lemon juice 1 Grease a 26cm round bundt pan (10-cup capacity) with melted butter. 2 Beat butter, sugar and rind in large bowl of an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time, until combined. Stir in almond meal.  3 Stir in sifted flour and buttermilk,…

WHY SMALLER GOALS CAN OFTEN LEAD TO BIGGER RESULTS It’s always the same story – you set out to keep a healthy routine or habit but after a few days struggle to find the motivation to continue. Have you ever wondered how to get unstuck from, and really think about, what’s getting in your way? Firstly, it’s more common than you think! But to help you get back on that goal-kicking horse, we’ve put together our top tips to keeping your eyes focused on the prize – a healthier, happier you. MORE THAN 21 DAYS The myth that it takes 21 days for a habit to stick is false, despite popular belief. According to the University of South Australia, in fact it takes an average of 66 days for new…

New Idea Sustainability Special AERE Since 2019, Aere have created trendy wardrobe essentials designed to last thanks to an eco-conscious philosophy that strives to use natural and sustainable fibres. Think chic pieces and timeless designs with a laid-back yet polished feel so you can easily assemble your own capsule wardrobe. Shop from a range of clothing and footwear exclusively at online retailer The Iconic. Dress, $160, theiconic.com.au NALA Underwear that supports our bodies and the planet? Sign us up! Nala has ditched traditional harmful fibres and swapped them for bio-based alternatives to create two sustainable, signature fabrics – so you can feel good while doing good. Padded Flexiwire Bra, $59 and Bio High Waist Brief, $25, wearnala.com KOWTOW With a mission to minimise landfill waste, this New Zealand-based label creates…

TRIP IN A VAN’S BUCKET LIST EXPERIENCES Out now, Allen & Unwin, $49.99 Bec and Justin Lorrimer spent eight years travelling around Australia with their three kids in a caravan, documenting it online via their ‘Trip in a Van’ platform. This is their guide to Oz’s must-see places… G’day, I’m Bec. In 2015 my husband Justin and I set off on a 12-month trip around Australia with our children: Jack, three, Billy, nearly two, and Charli, six months. It all began several months earlier when Justin’s work in a mine shut down. After taking another mining job, he found that he was unhappy, and we realised that his work-life balance was completely out. He was missing key milestones and time with our young children – time you can never get…

Tennis champion Ash Barty’s son, Hayden, is well on his way to becoming an Australian sporting great just like his mum. But don’t expect to see the two-year-old making headlines on the court. Instead, he’ll likely be acing it on the golf course! Given that Ash, 29, and her husband, Garry Kissick, tee off all the time, sources say it’s no great surprise Hayden has also taken a keen interest. “Hayden is already showing off impressive skills and swings, and even has his own set of Callaways,” tells the source. “Hayden is a chip off the old block … Garry is obsessed with golf. He has played all his life and is stoked that his son will too. “Ash and Gaz know that to be great in any sport you…

Pals are rallying around Laura Dern following the death of her actress mother and closest confidant, Diane Ladd. Diane, a three-time Oscar nominated star, passed away at her California home on November 3, a few weeks shy of her 90th birthday. Laura was by her side. The lung disease idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis was the cause of death. In a statement, Laura described her mother as her “amazing hero” and a “profound gift” . “She was the greatest daughter, mother, grandmother, actress, artist and empathetic spirit that only dreams could have seemingly created,” the Big Little Lies star, 58, continued. “We were blessed to have her. She is flying with her angels now.” Laura was born from Diane’s marriage to actor Bruce Dern. Tragically, the couple lost their eldest daughter, Diane…

Winning hearts with his dazzling performances on the US Dancing with the Stars, Robert Irwin is experiencing a new wave of fame. While mum, Terri, and sister, Bindi, have been helping Robert navigate it all behind the scenes, it seems his brother-in-law, Chandler Powell, may be getting slightly fed up with the frenzy. Despite moving back to his native US with the rest of the Irwins to support Robert’s dancing journey, Chandler is said to have grown apart from his once inseparable best mate in recent months, as Robert, 21, spends more time away from Australia Zoo to focus on other lucrative projects. “Chandler would have preferred to stay back in Australia to look after the zoo instead of upping everything to be Robert’s personal cheer squad,” dishes our source.…

GET READY FOR Christmas 6 WEEKS TO GO! Moroccan Pumpkin and White Bean Dip SERVES 6-8PREP & COOK 40 MINS ■ 500g packet diced pumpkin and sweet potato ■ 1 tbsp Moroccan spice blend, plus extra to serve ■ ½ x 250g block cream cheese, chopped ■ 400g can butter beans, rinsed, drained ■ ½ cup roasted capsicum strips ■ 2 tbsp pepitas, toasted 1 Place pumpkin and sweet potato in a well-oiled roasting pan. Sprinkle over spice blend. Toss well and spread into an even layer. 2 Cook in a 200C preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until tender and lightly browned. Cool.  3 Transfer roast pumpkin and sweet potato to a food processor. Add cream cheese, beans and capsicum. Process until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.  4 Spoon…

CRUISE LIKE A SUPERSTAR Sail to more than 300 destinations aboard Celebrity’s award-winning fleet. Enjoy the intimate feel and thoughtful service of a smaller ship, the variety and excitement of a larger one, and experiences you won’t find anywhere else – all while discovering the world in unparalleled style. Visit celebrity.com/au LIFE’S GOOD – AND SIMPLE Featuring 6-in-1 Pro cooking modes, LG InstaView™ Full Steam Ovens can steam, air fry, steam sous vide, dehydrate, be used as a convection oven or switch to Pizza mode. Say goodbye to your countertop clutter with this all-in-one masterpiece that makes cooking a breeze. RRP $3699, lg.com/au A HAPPY LATER LIFE For over two decades, Australian Seniors has earned its reputation as the over-50s specialists, providing older Australians with dependable insurance cover. Call 1300…

New Idea Sustainability special Over the last few years we’ve seen a huge surge in clean beauty and eco-friendly products. Not only are we more mindful of the ingredients we’re putting on our skin, but also the waste that comes with expired products and packaging. Luckily, there are plenty of incredible brands doing their best for the environment and our complexion. From refills to organic ingredients, we’ve rounded up the best beauty brands that are kind to the planet and even better for our skin. SKINCARE Al.ive Body’s gentle cleanser removes face and eye makeup and impurities thanks to a powerful blend of botanicals. A bonus? The whole skincare range is refillable. Al.ive Body First in Line Silky Gel Cleanser, $44, alivebody.com.au Using farm-grown botanicals and with a strong commitment…

EDITORIAL Acting Editorial Director Rachel Williams, 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…

The Prince of Wales IN A SPIN AROUND KYLIE FEELING FINE & SANDY! In Brazil for The Earthshot Prize, Prince William packed a lot into his schedule – from a boat tour of the local mangrove areas to playing beach volleyball, and gabbing with our very own Kylie Minogue at the awards ceremony. Jonathan Bailey The British actor stopped by Jimmy Fallon’s talk show after being crowned People’s ‘Sexiest Man Alive’. Claire Danes She might have been at a screening for her new Netflix series, The Beast in Me, in New York, but Claire was a total beauty on the red carpet, with husband Hugh Dancy. Kate Hudson With her new Neil Diamond tribute band movie, Song Sung Blue, about to hit cinemas, Kate enjoyed catching up with the man…

Could it be third time lucky when it comes to marriage for Jennifer Aniston? The actress sent fans into a spin last week when she, not only went ‘Instagram official’ with her new beau, hypnotherapist Jim Curtis, 50, but also showed off a ring on her engagement finger in the loved-up photo! “Wait … is Jen engaged? OMG!” queried one fan. Jen, 52, did not directly allude to an engagement in the post, simply captioning the happy snap “Cherished”, with a heart emoji. Jen was previously married to Brad Pitt, but they divorced in 2005. She then wed Justin Theroux in 2015 but they split in 2018. Jen and Justin have remained close in the years after their divorce and he even gave her post a ‘like’.…

As another hugely successful season of My Kitchen Rules draws to a close, New Idea can reveal that, behind the scenes, there’s been major drama on set in the lead up to the grand finale. “Midway through this season, fans – and contestants – began to notice that ‘boss friends’ Maria and Bailey suddenly began to get ‘the villain edit,’” a TV insider says. Even those on Gogglebox commented on the pivot during a recent episode, with one household asking if the pair “are the new baddies now?” ‘They had a pathway to the finals’ “There was a very obvious shift away from Maria and Bailey merely being sassy, sophisticated and forthright. And it seemed to really kick into gear once the ‘Meat Master’ was eliminated,” our source explains. The…

UNAPOLOGETICALLY ITA Out now, Simon & Schuster, $49.99 For those fortunate enough to have achieved everything in life they’ve wanted, the time comes when they want to pass their wisdom down to the next generations, hoping it might help in some way. Which is exactly what publishing trailblazer and media titan Ita Buttrose is doing in her new memoir, Unapologetically Ita. Passionate about helping others fulfil their goals as her own illustrious career winds down, Ita, 83, tells New Idea that in order to succeed, “you have to keep persevering”. “Never give up on your dreams, never give up on your job, never give up on what your ambition is,” Ita imparts as she stops by our Sydney office during the recent press tour for her book. It’s a welcome…

The Sydney temperature wasn’t the only thing soaring as Matt Evans and Sophea Pennington stepped out for a sun-drenched day at Bronte Beach recently. The fit couple sent pulses racing as they got their steps up, with Matt removing his shirt at one point, showing off his impressive physique. The pair fell in love on the set of Home and Away – Sophea plays Lacey while Matt’s character Theo was recently killed off. He has plans to relocate to the US to try his luck there. “He’s such a lovely, lovely guy and a great person to work with, extremely talented,” Sophea told The Post earlier this year. “He really is the best.”…

Key Lime Marshmallow Parfaits SERVES 6 PREP 25 MINS ■ ½ x 250g packet Nice biscuits ■ ½ cup shredded coconut, toasted, plus extra to decorate ■ 50g butter, melted ■ 395g can sweetened condensed milk ■ ½ cup lime juice ■ 125g (1½ cups) white marshmallows, chopped ■ 300ml tub thickened cream ■ 1 tbsp icing sugar mixture ■ Thin lime wedges, to decorate 1 Process biscuits in a food processor until finely crushed. Add coconut and butter. Process until just combined (it should still have some texture). 2 Divide biscuit mixture among 6 x 1½-cup capacity tall glasses. 3 Place condensed milk and juice in a medium bowl. Stir until well combined. Stir in marshmallows. Spoon evenly over biscuit layer in glasses. Refrigerate for 4 hours, or until…

There are many advantages to kids growing up with so much technology around them. It has loads of benefits, but brings a host of dangers too. Add in social media and it can be a very scary place for young people to navigate. SIMPLER TIMES Our children face situations these days that I would never have imagined when I was growing up. Things certainly were much simpler as a kid in the ’80s and ’90s. We’ve tried to prepare our kids as best as we can – no phone until a certain age, no YouTube and social media until after 16. But even with precautions it’s difficult, and I’m constantly met with the “everyone else at school has it” argument. A PARENT’S WORST NIGHTMARE I’ve heard from so many parents…

New Idea Sustainability Special AVOID SINGLE- USE PLASTICS Limiting plastic in your home is a simple solution to a very large problem. Think about all the times you use single-use items in your day-to-day and instead consider sustainable solutions. Some common and simple swaps include: ● Ditching plastic ziplock bags in favour of reusable food wraps or containers. ● Using a reusable cup for your daily tea or coffee. ● Switching to bamboo toothbrushes and hairbrushes. Simple swaps can make your trip greener and cleaner. TOP PICK FOR KIDS DID YOU KNOW? Instead of letting your furniture go to waste, Ikea offers a buyback system. Simply return your preloved Ikea products and if they’re in condition to resell, you’ll get in-store credit. For information head to ikea. com/au/en/circular/buy-back. USE ECO-…

Scorpio OCT 24 – NOV 22 Whether it’s hitting the dance floor or spicing up your love life, it’s time to inject more fun and excitement into your life – just don’t go on any wild spending sprees. With nostalgic stars casting a bright light, why not chase up old friends or revisit a place you used to love? Lucky gemstone: Golden topaz Aquarius JAN 21 – FEB 19 A complicated financial or work-related situation might test your tolerance, but with a little luck, the next few weeks should bring breakthroughs. But it’s not all serious – with your social side blossoming, a local club or community project might bring great satisfaction. Lucky numbers: 3, 10, 21, 24, 32, 34 Taurus APR 21 – MAY 21 You might be full…

RETURN TO PARADISE Premieres Sat., 7.30pm on ABC TV and ABC IVIEW THE STAR OPENS UP ABOUT LIFE IN PARADISE AND BEYOND Crime continues to pay … the bills for actress Anna Samson, whose hit murder mystery series, Return To Paradise, is back! With Season 1 of the Death in Paradise spin-off ending on a cliffhanger, Anna, who plays Detective Inspector Mackenzie Clarke, says she was excited to return to Dolphin Cove and all the action. She adds that, although reprising the role was “surreal”, it also felt like she’d “never left”. “Mackenzie kind of lives with me even when I’m not on set or performing her,” Anna tells New Idea. “She’s a big part of my life. I’m her and she’s me in a lot of ways.” Anna, 35,…