Michael Theo first captured Australia's attention as one of the stars of Love on the Spectrum.

Since then, he's gone on to lead the ABC comedy-drama Austin - a performance that has now earned him a Silver Logie nomination for Best Lead Actor in a Comedy.

To mark the nomination, we're revisiting one of our conversations with him from the archives.

This bonus Sunday episode of The Briefing is Antoinette Lattouf's 2024 conversation with Michael Theo about finding fame through Love on the Spectrum, making the leap into acting, and the very specific checklist he has for his ideal partner.

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He went from busking in Pitt Street Mall to winning Australia's Got Talent with Justice Crew, signing a record deal despite none of them being trained singers, and touring the world with the likes of Pitbull, Janet Jackson and One Direction.

Now John Pearce - Big Strong John, the internet's "hot Wiggle" - sits down with Chris Spyrou in this episode of The Weekend Briefing to look back on the wild ride from western Sydney dancer to ARIA chart-topper, including what he actually did with his AGT prize money, whether twin telepathy with his brother Lenny is real, and the moment Justice Crew quietly wound down.

They also get into how he came to join the Wiggle-verse, how his life has changed since becoming a dad and his honest feelings about being labelled a heartthrob while dressed as a children's entertainer.

WEEKEND LIST:

• To watch: Widow's Bay on Apple TV (Listener Nial)
• To eat: GYG Breakfast Burrito
• To gift: Gourmet Basket
• To explore: Bunnings on Uber Eats?!

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Friday Headlines:

• World leaders commit aid after Venezuela hit by two earthquakes
• Albo to target social media companies and algorithms in strengthening of under-16 ban
• Sydney shark attack victim awake, reunited with daughter
• Nearly 1 in 20 fuel pumps short-changing Australians
• SBS braces for record viewing audience as Socceroos take on Paraguay

Deep Dive: The Socceroos are back in action today, taking on Paraguay in their final World Cup group match.

Australia heads into the clash knowing a win or draw would put it in a strong position to reach the knockout stage - but even a loss may not be enough to end our campaign.

In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by SBS's Santo & Ed's Cup Fever host Ed Kavalee to unpack Australia's chances, the big names to watch, and the World Cup facts that'll help you sound like you've been following the tournament all along.

Further listening from headlines:
Your anger is being sold, Ed Coper knows what to do about it

Follow The Briefing:
TikTok: @thebriefingpod
Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast
YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.