FRESH OUT THE BOX

MEET THE FRIENDS AND FAMILIES JOINING THE NEW SEASON OF ‘GOGGLEBOX’

Eleven seasons in, Gogglebox Australia (returns Wed., Feb. 26 at 7.30pm; Lifestyle) is having its biggest shake-up yet, with long-time cast members Adam and Symon and the Jackson family leaving and three new families joining the show. Best friends Kaday (below left), 23, and Chantel, 22, met while hanging out washing in their East Sydney apartment building and found they share a similar outlook on life.

What are you most excited about when it comes to joining Gogglebox? Any nerves? CHANTEL Being able to express my opinions from the perspective of a young woman from the culturally and linguistically diverse community. It’s also exciting to be able to spend time with my best friend and pretty much drink tea as we spill the tea. I’m a little nervous but mostly excited to be on the screens of everyday Australians like us. KADAY Also there’s a feeling of being really lucky to be part of a family, and work alongside really lovely and supportive people. Do you think Australia will agree with your opinions or go, “What are they on about?” CHANTEL Australia has such a widespread set of opinions on different topics so it’s hard to agree with everyone. When it comes to serious topics, my values tend to align with fairness and equality which, given my background in mental health work, makes sense. When it comes to more lighthearted, trashy TV, my opinions are more larrikin in nature.

KADAY We really want Australia to enjoy our banter and, through our friendship, prove that when women love and support each other amazing things happen.

What type of show do you hope you won’t have to sit through?

CHANTEL I remember the poor families having to sit through this random show of a train heading to nowhere. Please don’t do that to me – I spend enough time on the train.