Michael might be the first housemate evicted from Big Brother 2025 but he’s definitely not the most forgettable. In this episode, Ben catches up with the self-described “professional pot-stirrer” fresh from the house, bacon in hand and emails exploding, to unpack how it all went so wrong so fast after he copped 13 points in that brutal first nomination and Australia sent him packing.

Michael opens up about being cast to fill the “older villain” box, those MAFS intruder rumours, why he never toned down his opinions for the 24/7 live stream, and how his daughter reacted to seeing him on TV (including her friends now calling him a “DILF”). He also shares his unfiltered take on Holly and Colin’s 'showmance,' why he thinks Holly and Jane are “content machines” the show can’t afford to lose and whether Big Brother has gone soft compared to the old days.

Plus, Ben and Michael talk about who’s really running the game, who’s in the most danger next, and why Michael’s money is still on Emily (and maybe Vinnie) to make it all the way to the end.

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# The Dark Comedy Murder Mystery You Need to Hear About

In this captivating episode of TV Reload, host Ben sits down with the creative minds behind Stan Original's razor-sharp dark comedy "He Had It Coming." Creator/writer Gretel Vella and executive producer Chloe Rickard unpack their brilliantly chaotic series that blends feminist perspectives with murder mystery elements. The show follows two unlikely friends thrust into amateur detective roles on a university campus, exploring modern activism, gender politics, and shifting power dynamics through a distinctly comedic lens.

The conversation reveals how the show's short, punchy episodes perfectly match the frenetic energy of its characters - two "bad feminists" navigating a murder investigation they're woefully unprepared for. Gretel and Chloe discuss their creative influences, from "Only Murders in the Building" to "Search Party," and how they crafted flawed, authentic characters that viewers can genuinely connect with.

## Timestamps and Key Takeaways:

**2:30** - The creators explain how the show's format (short episodes) intentionally matches its frenetic tone and energy

**5:15** - Discussion of how the murder mystery serves as the perfect vehicle to explore gender politics without being heavy-handed

**8:45** - Gretel reveals she identifies more with the character Elise and how viewers will likely see themselves in the characters

**12:20** - Creative influences behind the show, including "Only Murders in the Building" and "Search Party"

**15:40** - The importance of writing flawed, authentic characters that audiences can relate to

**18:30** - How they approached plotting the murder mystery, knowing the killer before laying the clue tracks

**21:15** - The creators' hopes for how viewers will connect with the show's themes

**23:00** - Behind-the-scenes story about filming in 40-degree heat while actors wore full coveralls and masks

If you enjoy dark comedy with a feminist edge, murder mysteries with depth, or simply love watching flawed characters navigate impossible situations, you need to hear this conversation. The creators' insights into their creative process will make you appreciate "He Had It Coming" on a whole new level when you watch it!

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Episode Synopsis: Leo Suter. Inside Britbox's New Crime Drama ‘Lynley’

In this episode of TV Reload, Ben Norris chats with British actor Leo Suter, star of Britbox brand-new detective drama Lynley, which premieres today on Britbox Box.

Best known for his breakout roles in Vikings: Valhalla and Sanditon, Leo takes on the iconic role of Detective Inspector Thomas Lynley. A sharp, aristocratic investigator whose personal struggles are as complex as the crimes he solves.

Leo opens up about the challenge of reinventing a beloved literary detective for a new generation, the psychology behind Lynley’s calm intensity, and the on-set chemistry that brings this gripping reimagining to life.

Set against the backdrop of the English countryside, Lynley promises a blend of style, suspense, and emotional storytelling that fans of Broadchurch and Happy Valley will devour.

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TV Reload: Miranda Tapsell & Gwilym Lee  From Top End Wedding to Top End Bub

What happens when I start with discussing Justin Bieber to the cast of Top End Bub. You’ll find out in this week’s episode and trust me, Miranda Tapsell and Gwilym Lee were more than happy to play along!

In this hilarious and heartfelt chat, Miranda opens up about parenting, teaching her daughter about Aboriginal culture, while Gwilym reflects on the unexpected joy of turning a hit film into a TV series.

We dive into why Top End Bub starts in such an emotional place. How grief and humour intertwine in storytelling and why Darwin is one of the most special “characters” in this universe.

If you loved Top End Wedding, you’re going to be swept up in this series and this conversation will make you laugh, watch this series and maybe even start planning a trip to the Northern Territory.

Stream Top End Bub now on Prime Video and tune in to this episode of TV Reload for the behind-the-scenes stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

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Benjamin Norris chats with best-selling author Sally Hepworth about the brand new ABC TV adaptation of her hit novel The Family Next Door.

In this episode, Sally shares what it was like seeing her characters brought to life, the casting choices that shaped the series, and the creative process of translating her page-turning twists into gripping television.

You’ll also hear behind-the-scenes stories from production and Sally’s thoughts on the performances that bring her story to a whole new audience. Whether you’ve read the book, love Aussie drama, or are fascinated by book-to-screen adaptations, this conversation is full of insight and charm.

The Family Next Door premieres 8pm AEST on ABC TV, with all episodes available to stream on ABC iview immediately after broadcast.

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They're Back! Meet the Rebellious Midford Sisters in Outrageous
The creators of the new period drama Outrageous join me in New York to discuss bringing the chaotic lives of the real-life Mitford sisters to the screen. Get the inside scoop on these aristocratic rule-breakers who lived life on their own terms.

2:30 - How Little Women and Pride and Prejudice inspired the story
5:15 - Why the Midford sisters feel so modern and relatable
9:00 - The importance of showing the diversity of women's lives
12:30 - Why the show is titled Outrageous
15:45 - The possibility of future seasons
18:30 - Behind the scenes secret from filming

From their political passions to their tumultuous love lives, the Midford sisters refused to be boxed in by society's expectations. Their rebellious spirit leaps off the screen. Whether you love historical dramas or just a great story about sisterhood and self-discovery, don't miss this exclusive chat with the creative minds behind Outrageous.

Watch now on BritBox to meet the Midford sisters and experience all the laughter, tears and antics that made them the talk of 1930s high society.

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This episode on TV RELOAD, I’m joined once again by the man behind Australia’s biggest renovation juggernaut. The Block’s executive producer Julian Cress!

Now, this is not just another season of The Block… it’s series 21 and they are about to  officially clock over 1000 episodes. 

But rather than rest on their laurels, Julian and the team have shaken things up in a huge way.

From strict tools-down rules that were implemented for mental health reasons , to a whole new breed of Blockheads you’re going to be obsessed with. 

Julian spills the behind-the-scenes tea on how Daylesford turned on the charm. With “better-than-advertised” weather and support from the local MP-slash-Infrastructure-Minister! 

And trust me, there are fireplace vibes and classic block drama in equal measure.

He also opens up about:

• Why this season deliberately dialled back the nastiness and how that’s changed the kind of drama we’re seeing on-screen

• Whether he’s ever talked to Scotty Cam about his exit plan. 

• The show’s evolution and whether The Block was ever in danger of “becoming Married at First Sight.”

• And yes… in relations to the clear message.. that this is a ‘nice’ ‘nice’ season Julian does confirm that someone this season will say “they’re dead to me” before the hammer drops on final auction — it’s tradition!

So settle in, whether you’re keen to see what changes this year has install or just tuning in for the Sunday room reveals — this is The Block like you’ve never heard it before.

 Timestamps:
2:55 - The decision behind a "lighter" season of The Block
6:20 - How the new tools down rules added pressure
10:40 - Improvements for Blockhead mental health
15:30 - Ben's favorite contestant this season
20:10 - Has Scotty Cam discussed an exit plan?
22:30 - Was The Block in danger of becoming MAFS?
25:15 - Return of past Block favorites this season
27:40 - Is this really the end for Adrian Portelli?
29:00 - A momentous 1000th episode

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Welcome back to TV Reload. My name is Benjamin Norris and on today’s episode I’m joined by three incredibly talented actors: Ben Lawson, Teresa Palmer, and Jim Sturgess. The stars of the moving new series Mixtape. Now available on Binge and Foxtel.

• Now, if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably seen these three in stacks of different films and tv shows..
• Jim Sturgess, of course, stole hearts in One Day and has gone on to make a name for himself with roles full of depth and charm.
• Teresa Palmer, one of Australia’s brightest exports, has starred in Warm Bodies, A Discovery of Witches and, oh and I just found out she’s also a mum of six! (Where do you have the time?)
• And Ben Lawson – who we first met on Neighbours – has carved out a solid Hollywood career in Firefly Lane, 13 Reasons Why, and more.

Today, we’re talking about the deeply emotional series Mixtape. From the lost art of making mixtapes to the emotional depth of playing flawed, complex characters. In this chat these three don’t hold back. You’ll hear what it was like bringing young and older versions of their characters to life, how music became a central heartbeat of the story, and why Mixtape hits so hard emotionally.

Oh and yes we do get into a few hilarious behind-the-scenes stories, including Ben’s surprising first crash pad in LA, and a surprising link to Tori Spelling.

So whether you’re here for the music chat, the acting masterclass, or just some behind the scenes chat? This is an episode you’ll want to listen to from start to finish.

Let’s dive in.

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Welcome back to TV Reload, the podcast that takes you behind the scenes of your favourite TV shows. I’m your host, Benjamin Norris, and on today’s episode, we’re diving into the sun-soaked, crime-solving world of Beyond Paradise.

You’ll know Beyond Paradise as the charming spin-off from Death in Paradise, and it’s back with a fresh season that’s got fans buzzing. It’s a series that balances small-town charm with gripping mysteries and at the heart of it all is fan-favourite DI Humphrey Goodman.

Joining me is the delightful Kris Marshall, who reprises his role as the bumbling but brilliant detective. We’ll chat about what it’s like stepping back into the role, how the show has evolved, and what fans can expect this season. From on-set antics to behind-the-scenes twists, Kris gives us a peek at the magic that makes this show such a hit.

So sit back and enjoy my chat with the ever-entertaining Kris Marshall, right here on TV Reload.

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This week on TV Reload, I’m joined by beloved actor and activist Samuel Johnson, whose incredible life story is being featured on Australian Story (ABC, 8pm Monday 19th May)

From his breakout role in The Secret Life of Us to winning a Gold Logie and raising over $20 million through his charity Love Your Sister, Sam has become one of Australia’s most inspiring public figures. But behind the accolades is a man who has faced immense personal grief and hardship and come through it with unshakable vulnerability and admirable strength.

In this special episode, we chat about the highs, the heartbreaks, and the decision to finally share his full story on Australian Story. Sam opens up about what he expected from the experience, what scared him, and what he hopes audiences will take away.

It’s a raw, honest, and moving conversation with one of the country’s true heroes.

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