While Waleed Aly is a familiar face in living rooms across Australia as a sharp-witted host on The Project, his most cherished role is played away from the glare of studio lights. For over twenty years, his anchor has been Dr Susan Carland—a renowned academic, author, and his wife.
In a rare glimpse into their private life, it's revealed that the couple, who married in a traditional Islamic ceremony in 2002, have meticulously built a family life insulated from the public eye. They are proud parents to two children, a son and a daughter, whose lives are kept steadfastly out of the media spotlight.
The Power Couple Behind the Scenes
This is no ordinary showbiz pairing. While Waleed commands the screen with his political and social commentary, Dr Carland has built an equally impressive career as a sociologist and a leading voice on issues of faith, feminism, and social justice. Her achievements include winning the prestigious Victorian Australian of the Year award in 2016.
Their partnership is a meeting of two formidable intellects, a true partnership of equals. Friends of the couple often speak of a relationship built on deep mutual respect, shared humour, and a united front when it comes to their family values.
Guardians of Privacy
In an era of oversharing, the Aly-Carland household stands out for its discretion. The couple has never publicly revealed their children's names or shown their faces, a conscious decision to grant them a normal childhood. This privacy extends to their social media, which they use professionally rather than as a family diary.
This fierce protection allows them to maintain a striking sense of normalcy. It’s a sanctuary where Waleed, the award-winning logie recipient, can simply be a husband and dad, and where Susan, the celebrated academic, is just mum.
The Secret to Their Longevity
So, what's the secret to a lasting marriage under public scrutiny? While they keep their counsel private, their public interactions hint at a foundation of unwavering support. They are each other's greatest champions, frequently attending events together and speaking of one another with palpable admiration.
Their story is a refreshing narrative in the celebrity world—one that prioritises quiet companionship, intellectual connection, and the sacred boundary between a public persona and a private life. It’s a project, it seems, that they have perfected together.
