MY LIFE IN 10 PICTURES COURTNEY ACT

SYDNEY GAY AND LESBIAN MARDI GRAS 2021, LIVE SAT. MARCH 6 6PM AEDT ON SBS ON DEMAND, AND 7.30PM ON SBS & NITV

Since bursting onto the inaugural Australian Idol stage almost two decades ago, Courtney Act has become a global sensation. Whether performing on Dancing with the Stars, being crowned the UK Celebrity Big Brother winner or appearing on Neighbours, the drag icon continues to win fans the world over.

“If I could go back in time and say to my 18year-old self: ‘Don’t worry, it all works,’ I wish that I could,” Courtney, aka Shane Jenek, says. “It’s been wonderful and just continues to get better and better.”

Now, Courtney is preparing to return to Aussie screens, co-hosting SBS’S coverage of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade, alongside Joel Creasey, Narelda Jacobs and Zoë Coombs Marr.

“Some people mark their years in Christmases or birthdays, but I mark mine in Mardi Gras,” says Courtney, 39. “I can’t wait!”

1 3 “I was born in Brisbane in 1982. My mum and dad are still together and I’m very grateful to have their love throughout my life. Here I am in my official school photo – taken before braces – in Grade 6 or 7.” “I was about 6 when this picture was taken. I just loved running around the soccer field and was very thrilled one week when I won the Most Improved Award. I’ve realised as an adult that every child got that award at some point!”

“This is the day I was crowned Mr Tiny Tot 1987 at Dreamworld. I was 5 years old and wearing a special little blue outfit that Mum had bought for me. In the photo, I’m with Miss Tiny Tot 1987 – her name was Chantelle.” 2