When Courtney Act lobbed on the steps of Australia House in London, life was crazy. She had just won the UK reality TV juggernaut Celebrity Big Brother and made headlines for the calm and eloquent way she approached big issues like marriage equality and trans rights. Alex Leon, an Australian expat and LGBTQIA+ advocate, had booked her to appear that night. In the chaos, Courtney – real name Shane Jenek — heard Alex's Australian accent, and the connection was instant.

That initial spark evolved into a deep friendship, and "brains trust" that spans continents.

For the longest time, they admired each other from a distance. Journalist Narelda Jacobs was transfixed by Ru Paul's Drag Race Star Kween Kong. And all the while, Kween quietly watched Narelda's advocacy work. When they finally connected, they didn't pause to sweat the small stuff. Narelda Jacobs and Kween Kong go deep on the art of drag, queer friendship and family, identity, and faith.

In the intense world of professional football, fierce competition and relentless schedules often define relationships. But the bond between Matilda's players Katrina Gorry and Michelle Heyman stands as a testament to the enduring power of friendship. As they navigate the highs and lows of their careers, Gorry and Heyman have forged a connection that transcends the boundaries of the field.

He was a successful young stand-up comedian starring in his own TV show. She was a divorced mother of two. Despite her terrible acting, a friendship sparked between the pair. In the years since, Josh Thomas and Courtney Smith have laughed their way through fame, heartbreak, a couple of diagnoses and at least one significant love story.

As Australia grappled with the unprecedented challenges of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, two unlikely people found each other. Bill Bowtell, a senior government health advisor, lent his expertise to the battle against the epidemic. At the same time, Ita Buttrose, a formidable force in the world of media, provided unwavering support and a platform for awareness. Surrounded by the tragic loss of so many lives, the pair became firm friends.

In the hyper-masculine world of footy and politics, Danielle Laidley and Stuart Aubrey both harbored a secret. Danielle, a former footy champ, kept her gender dysphoria under wraps during her playing days.

Stuart, who spent his twenties as a FIFO worker in the mines, kept his gay identity a secret. In a world where personal battles are often hidden, they found in each other someone they could be themselves with.

Fran Kelly interviews prominent Australians on their connection to the rainbow community, to each other, and to themselves.  

For every queer person, there was the one that came before them. The one that stood next to them. The one that inspired them. Or the one that changed them, forever.  

Join Fran Kelly as she sits down with two colourful guests to unravel these connections. From strangers to friends, it’s a space to honour the stories and ties of the LGBTQI+ experience.