‘I had no idea’: The ABC quiz show asking the questions you may not want the answers to
Sydney Morning Herald
by Bridget McManusFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Tonight at the Museum, a new ABC quiz show hosted by comedian Alex Lee, brings humor and history together in a unique setting. Filmed at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery in Hobart, the series features live audiences, guessing games, and treasure hunts among museum exhibits. Lee, making her solo hosting debut, highlights the fun and childlike curiosity of exploring a museum after dark. The show blends trivia with quirky facts, showcasing both the expertise of comedians as contestants and the surprising knowledge shared by experts like Dr. Tiana Pirtle, who specializes in animal vaginas.
The series features an impressive guest line-up, including British comedy icon Alan Davies and Australian entertainers like Tegan Higginbotham and Zoe Coombs Marr. Lee praises the show’s original concept, emphasizing its genuine approach to humor rather than forced wackiness. Each episode includes a “treasure” from the guests, which would be displayed in the museum if they win. Lee herself contributes a personal item—a box of childhood “horrors,” including feathers and plaster molds, reflecting her deep connection to museums as repositories of collective memory.
The show not only entertains but also highlights the educational value of museums for families. Lee, a mother of two who remains an avid museum visitor, appreciates how these institutions provide safe spaces for learning while allowing parents to enjoy their own interests. Tonight at the Museum offers a fresh take on quiz shows, combining trivia with cultural exploration and whimsical fun, making it a must-watch for comedy enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/20/2026