cultural impact

Guy Montgomery’s journey from a mischievous dinner-table prankster to a carnival barker for chaos on television might, on the surface, appear unlikely. Yet, 36-year-old Montgomery credits his childhood antics—making his sister snort milk out of laughter and impersonating a “South African exchange student”—for honing the irreverent comedic instincts that drive his hit game show, Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. What began as a Zoom-based diversion during the COVID-19 lockdown has blossomed into a second Australian season on the ABC, replete with celebrity guests, absurd spelling challenges, and unexpected fan devotion.

In May 2022, when Disney+ acquired global streaming rights, Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies announced that Rwandan-Scottish actor Ncuti Gatwa would become the first Black man to lead the series as the Fifteenth Doctor. Gatwa made his first appearance in the 60th-anniversary special alongside David Tennant and Catherine Tate, then formally debuted in the 2023 Christmas special. His era unfolded over two series, each comprising eight episodes, plus holiday and anniversary specials.

Valerie Mahaffey, the versatile American actor celebrated for her Emmy-winning turn on Northern Exposure and beloved for roles ranging from Desperate Housewives to Young Sheldon, has died at the age of 71. Her publicist confirmed on Saturday in Los Angeles that she succumbed to cancer after a private battle. Mahaffey’s death prompted an outpouring of tributes from co-stars, industry figures, and fans around the world, underscoring her status as one of television’s most endearing and accomplished performers.

Nearly twenty years after she first enamored audiences as Rose Tyler, Billie Piper reappeared in Saturday night’s finale of Doctor Who, “The Reality War,” delivering an electrifying surprise moment for long‐time viewers. As Ncuti Gatwa’s thirteenth Doctor began his regeneration, the screen cut to black. Moments later, Piper’s familiar face emerged, greeting fans with a playful “Oh, hello!” in a twist that prompted audible gasps during its initial broadcast—and reignited fervent speculation about the series’ direction.

Loretta Swit, best remembered for her role as Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on the long‐running television series MAS*H, died on Friday at her home in New York City. She was 87 years old. According to her publicist, Swit likely succumbed to natural causes. Born on November 4, 1937, in Passaic, New Jersey, Swit was the daughter of Anna (née Lesniewski) and Andrew Swit, immigrants from Poland who settled in the United States in the early 20th century. Raised in a household that valued hard work and perseverance, Swit developed an early passion for the arts. She matriculated at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, one of the country’s most prestigious acting conservatories. There, she honed her craft in classical theatre, studying voice, movement, and dramatic literature, and prepared herself for a career on stage and screen.

Richard Zachariah, a respected figure in Australian television, radio, and literary circles, has died at the age of 80. The journalist, author, and former ABC presenter passed away after a decades-long career marked by eloquent storytelling, nostalgic reflection, and a genuine affection for Australia's rural landscapes.

Sam Nivola might be the breakout star of HBO's The White Lotus Season 3, but his roots in Hollywood run deep. At just 21, Nivola has become a rising talent in the entertainment industry thanks to his performance as Lochlan Ratliff, the quietly intense and slightly unsettling younger brother in the show's most recent installment. But for Nivola, acting was always part of the family tradition.

Kerry Greenwood, the acclaimed Australian author best known for her beloved Phryne Fisher murder mystery series, has died at the age of 70. Her partner, writer David Greagg, confirmed she passed away on 26 March following an illness in her home city of Melbourne.