It was a case of seeing double on this year’s Amazing Race Australia, with identical twin models Jack and Alex Newell.
With Alex gay and Jack straight, the tone was definitely set for some fun-filled antics, but it all ended when they left under a dark cloud. I spoke to the best friends and models about life as twins, and their reasons for quitting the race.
What prompted you both to go on the race?
Jack: It’s always been a dream of mine. The Amazing Race is a major show that I’ve always watched, even as a kid, and I would think, “One day I want to do that!”
Alex: Jack and I have this funny energy where we always fight, yet laugh at ourselves. We’ll finish an argument, start laughing and then say how we wish someone had filmed it. So I thought we just had to go on the race. It would be so funny for people to see us stress, bicker and yell. But I also wanted to be there with my brother and make some lifetime memories.
Jack and Alex face a beer challenge in far north Queensland, on The Amazing Race Australia
While on the race, what was the most memorable challenge?
Jack: On the second day, we decided it would all be about having fun. Not worrying about winning, but to enjoy each other’s company and I think that was conveyed on TV. We do have a very unique dynamic. Alex is gay and very extroverted …
Alex: Hey, that’s not everything about me! I’m more than my sexuality …
Jack: Oh, you know what I mean! I’m straight and nerdy and Alex is sassy to me, and I just take it. It is a funny dynamic, and let’s not forget how Alex fell into that sugar cane and found the tongs – in five seconds!
Alex: Truth be told, I actually had no idea what I was even looking for! I was having so much fun I didn’t even read the clues. I just grabbed the tongs and said, “What the fuck is this?” I think our clowning around and being so clueless worked really well.
“When I did come out, Jack was the first person I told.” – Alex
How did you find Beau Ryan?
Jack: Beau is such a genuine human being and all-round top bloke. He really cared about the teams, and knew everyone by name. He would never pass up the chance to have a conversation with anyone and he’s so affectionate.
Alex: I was impressed that he remembered everyone’s names! I couldn’t even remember our producer’s name! Beau not only remembered my name, but could also tell the difference between us, so I had respect for him from day one.
So what lead to the decision to leave the race?
Alex: We were in isolation for around 16 days, and I don’t think I was mentally prepared for that. I knew I’d be stuck in a hotel room, but I didn’t realise how small it would be and I lost a bit of control. It was government mandated and out of The Amazing Race’s power, but the experience was still not pleasant. I mean, to be stuck in there that long with my crazy-arse brother! (laughing). But seriously, he helped me a lot in talking through my feelings. There’s only so much you can do though, and then I went straight onto the show feeling a pressure to be happy. It’s hard to describe, but the joy and colour of my life just went. My anxiety flared up, and I realised I had a lot of stuff from my past to deal with. I was really empty inside.
Can you tell them apart? Twin brothers Jack and Alex Newell, preparing for The Amazing Race Australia
Jack: When all of that came out on TV and social media, the response was astounding, with people saying how much they could relate. One person said that for years she was recommended to go to a psych by her doctor, and after seeing us say how mental health is more important than a TV show and money, she got the confidence to finally seek that help she needed. I said to Alex, if that’s all that comes from this, then it’s been worth it.
Alex: I think it also started a conversation on men’s mental health. We did get negative comments like ‘Just buck up’ or ‘What a drama queen!’ but I was actually surprised, and quite emotional, over just how supportive people have been. I’m glad it’s started a conversation and brought mental health into the spotlight. I think it’s very important.
What’s your advice for anyone suffering from anxiety or depression?
Alex: I see a psychologist every fortnight, and I also saw a life coach. I’m thinking of making some podcasts about it, because I’ve had a pretty weird experience with psyches, and you really have to find what works for you. My partner is actually studying psychology and he suggested seeing one for a few sessions. My top priority this year is to get my mental health in check, and some tools under my belt to deal with any demons that pop up. I don’t want any of this to continue into my further life.
“In that moment, I knew instinctively that Alex was about to come out to me.” – Jack
Many media personalities work as advocates for mental health awareness. Is this something you’d want to pursue?
Jack: One hundred percent. That’s one of my personal visions, to fill that gap in society when it comes to men’s mental health. Three out of four suicides are men. We need to reach out and teach them that being vulnerable is okay. The best thing to do in those moments of weakness is to realise that it’s not weakness. When life knocks you down you need to reach out. I feel the definition of man needs to change. The strong silent type is not a man. The vulnerable man is a man.
The Amazing Race twin brother contestants, Jack and Alex Newell
For those of us who are not twins, can you explain about the bond?
Alex: I have a very special memory as a child, which can sum it up. I kind of always hated being a twin when I was young. We had to share a room … birthdays, and people would always say to me “Oh where’s Jack?” But one day I was walking in a park with Jack and our dad, and I was complaining about being a twin. My dad told me that I had it so lucky. I was born with a soul mate and would forever have this extra person in life and would never feel alone. That plays in my head often, and I’m reminded of how lucky I am. Having a twin is really magical and I’m getting really emotional talking about it. I love him more than anything and I know he feels the same. That bond will never be broken.
For you Alex, has having a close straight brother helped with coming out and combating school bullying?
Alex: The thing is, I wasn’t picked on that much, and actually treated quite well, within reason. I came out around twenty-two, but previously I would control the way I moved and spoke. I tried not to say the letter ‘s’ for fear of falling into a lisp and I would never dare stare at a guy for too long. It was such controlling behaviour that no one could ever tell I was gay. My dad was also very homophobic. When Jack and I were about fifteen, he drove us away somewhere and said, “If you are gay, get out of this car right now and never come back!” I was very under threat that if I ever came out, I would lose my home.” My parents have since broke up and when I did come out, Jack was the first person I told. His response was “I think it’s the soy milk you drink. It contains estrogen!”
So Jack, being twins, did you have an instinct that Alex may be gay?
Jack: The night he told me, we were sitting outside looking at the stars and there was a silence. In that moment, I knew instinctively that he was about to come out to me. I did also wonder why in Year Seven, he was so popular with the girls. That made me a bit jealous and I thought, “What’s he got that I haven’t?”
“My dad said, “If you are gay, get out of this car right now and never come back!” – Alex
What music are you both into?
Jack: I listen to Thomas Bergersen, who most people don’t know. It’s more like music you’d hear on movie soundtracks. I like music that is universal.
Alex: I’m very sensitive, even with music. If I hear a sad song, I’ll be sad the whole day, so I make a point to listen to really happy pop music. I love a good girl group like Little Mix.
Jack: Oh, that’s so stereotypical! (Laughing)
Alex: I’m just a normal gay guy (Laughing). Okay, this is an exclusive! No one else knows this, but I was in the second round to be on Australia’s Got Talent. I auditioned for it, got into that round and then COVID hit. I sang the 007 themes Skyfall and Writing’s On The Wall, but no one got to hear my beautiful voice!
Are there any disadvantages in being an identical twin?
Jack: I don’t so. They would be outweighed by the advantages. Although … one time Alex’s ex-boyfriend came up behind me while I was washing dishes, and humped and kissed me. I’m like “Fuck off! It’s Jack!” (Laughing)
Alex: I don’t think there’s many negatives either. The only thing is that you lose a tiny bit of your individuality. I remember being out clubbing and people would see me, look over my shoulder and say, “Where’s Jack?” We do get comparisons, but it’s not a competition. Besides, I’m prettier with better cheekbones and jawline!
You’ve both modeled for Mecca Maxima and Hugo Boss. How did that come about?
Alex: Jack flew over to Sydney first, although he began modeling in Adelaide and signed with an agency in Sydney. Then I followed …
Jack: Are you telling my story?
Alex: Yes, and you’re welcome! (Laughing)
And what’s your fashion sense like?
Alex: I’ll answer for Jack! He’ll wear a really good top from H&M, pants from Target and then it gets worse as you go down. The shoes are from K-Mart and the socks are usually brightly coloured and sore to look at! But I usually wear tonal colours …
Jack: Alex will come home with this miniscule Prosciutto-thin blue shirt, where he’s basically wearing nothing! He’ll say, “This cost $300 dollars!” And I’ll say, “Alex, I can see your nipples!” Now, that’s Alex!
Alex: What the hell? I have better fashion style than that! I really like Karamo’s style on Queer Eye. I love a good boot, tight jeans and a big bomber jacket. I think boots are really sexy on guys.
Where are you guys heading into the future?
Alex: My main goal was to become an actor, but I’m enjoying the whole current ‘personality’ thing, and being a spokesperson for mental health. I’m really open to any opportunities that come my way.
Jack: I’m enjoying my acting and writing, and I recently played Basil Fawlty in the Fawlty Towers dining experience at the Adelaide Fringe Festival. But I also want to be involved with some sort of foundation for mental health, especially for men. That’s my vision!
The 2021 teams of The Amazing Race Australia
If you or anyone you know is suffering from depression, anxiety or needs mental health assistance, consider contacting
Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
Pilot: pilot.com.au/mental-health
