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Guy Named Australia's first Idol | BACK |
19 November 2003

Adelaide's Guy Sebastian was named Australia's first Idol in an extraordinary live television event. The 2-hour final was broadcast live on Network Ten and began with Top 40 finalist performing on the McDonald's unforgettable concert on the steps of the Sydney Opera House. Rebecca Tapia, Courtney Act, Axle Whitehead, Stu Campbell and beat-boxer Joel Turner was among those performing on the night. Judge Marcia Hines also performed on the night, singing the track 'Moving On' from the Idol Cast Album. Close to 3000 members of the public attended the outdoors concert, with another 2000 family, celebrities, fans, music industry heavyweights and other VIPs seated in the concert hall of the Sydney Opera House.

Finalists Guy and Shannon then arrived, complete with police escort, in a white stretch Porsche limo to the Sydney Opera House. A spectacular fireworks display then lit the skies over the harbour especially for the arrival of Shannon and Guy.

In the second hour of the telecast the Top 12 Idol contestants performed songs from the series individually and then together with the other two finalists.

Shannon then perform 'What About Me' live on stage individually and then Guy singing 'When I Get You Alone'. The finalists did not perform any new songs on the night. All the Idol finalists then joined in a medley of Australian hits live during the television event accompanied by Musical director John Foreman and a twenty-eight-piece band.

Running 30 minutes overtime, Guy and Shannon finally appeared together on the stage for the announcement of the winner. Host James Mathison and Andrew G then announced, in a nail-biting finale to the extraordinary series, that Guy Sebastian is Australia's first Australian Idol. The clearly ecstatic winner thanked his fans, family and supporters. Shannon commended his mate, Guy for his talent and thanked everyone for their support.

The newly crowned Australian Idol then took to the stage performing 'Angels Brought Me Here', the debut single that is to be released next Monday, 24 November. After the performance Guy was joined on stage by the other Idol contestants and runner-up Shannon.

Both Guy and Shannon will have no time to celebrate the conclusion of the series with press commitments this week. Although Shannon did not win, he has decided to move to Sydney and will engage in talks with BMG for a possible recording career. Guy will embark on a hectic schedule beginning with recording his debut album due for release in an unprecedented two weeks in early December and preparations for World Idol, which will be screened during the holiday season.

All Idol contests, together with Guy and Shannon, will also be kept busy with a planned Australian Idol tour of major capital cities around the country starting in the new year.

The journey has only just begun.



Australian Idol Live Concert Tour | BACK |
19 November 2003

Other Idol finalists will join Australia's Idol Guy Sebastian on a national concert tour next year. The finalists will perform songs from Australian Idol: The Final 12 album, songs presented on the TV show and new material, individually, as a group, and in various other combinations. Here are the Australian Idol Live dates:

MONDAY, 26 JANUARY 2004
Sydney Entertainment Centre
Tickets available from Ticketmaster 7 - Phonecharge 136 100

THURSDAY, 29 JANUARY 2004
Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Tickets available from Ticketek - Phonecharge 131 931

SATURDAY, 31 JANUARY 2004
Burswood Dome, Perth
Tickets available from BOCS Ticketing - Phonecharge 9484 1133

WEDNESDAY, 4 FEBRUARY 2004
Adelaide Entertainment Centre
Tickets available from BASS ticketing - Phonecharge 131 246

FRIDAY, 6 FEBRUARY 2004
Rod Laver, Melbourne
Tickets available from Ticketek 132 849

TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21, 9AM.


National Showdown Tour | BACK |
16 November 2003

Shannon and Guy have completed their whirlwind national appearance tour and are currently preparing for the Australian Idol Grand Final to be held this Wednesday 19 November. The excited pair embarked on the campaign trail to drum up support in Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney. They were confronted with thousands of screaming fans and were met with intense media interest. They appeared on top rating radio stations nationwide and on national TV programs Rove and Good Morning Australia during their busy schedule. The potential Idols will now start preparations for this Wednesday's Grand Final at the Opera House.

Channel Ten has also confirmed that selected finalist from the series will go on a nationwide concert tour of major capital cities next year. The January and February concert will showcase the young talent discovered during Australian idol.


Grand Final details | BACK |
16 November 2003

The Australian Idol Grand Final is gearing up to be the television event of the year. Channel Ten will broadcast the 2-hour final live on November 19 starting at 7:30pm. Finalists Guy and Shannon will arrive in style by limo to the Sydney Opera House, complete with police escort and will each sing only after phone and SMS voting close at 8:30pm on Wednesday night. Shannon has chosen to perform 'With Arms Wide Open' by Creed while Guy will perform 'Change The World' by Eric Clapton featuring Babyface. John Foreman will be conducting a twenty-eight-piece band, which will be located at the back of the set, and there will be approximately 20 cameras covering the event and about 120 behind-the-scenes crew working on the night.

The McDonald's unforgettable concert will also be apart of the live telecast, featuring most of the Top 12 Idol contestants performing a medley of Australian hits live during the television event. Rebecca Tapia, Courtney Act, Axle Whitehead, Stu Campbell and beat-boxer Joel Turner will also be among those performing on the night. Over 5000 members of the public, who entered a sweepstakes on the official idol site, will be invited to the outdoors concert on the steps of the Sydney Opera House.

Tickets for the inside section of the telecast in the main concert hall have been said to be more difficult to obtain than finals tickets for the Rugby World Cup. Around 1500 tickets have been reserved for guest of the remaining two contests, celebrities, music industry heavyweights and other VIPs. A fireworks display over the harbour has also been organised for the Australian Idol finale.

The Australian Idol grand final is sure to be a not-to-be-missed live television event. Who will be our first Australian Idol? With only 4% separating the two finalists and a million dollar recording contract up for grabs it is set to be a nail biting finale to an extraordinary series.



Oz Idol to take on the World | BACK |
16 November 2003

The winner of Australian Idol is set to represent Australia in a special worldwide version of Idol. Network Ten has partnered with 10 international broadcasters to combine forces and broadcast World Idol, a two-part international television special that will determine the world's ultimate pop superstar. The global competition will pit the Australian Idol winner against series one Idol winners from 10 other countries - including original American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson. The event will be staged in London next month and telecast around the world in two parts. The competition round will most likely air Christmas night, from 7:30pm followed by the grand finale, one week later on New Year's Day.

The first World Idol special features performances from each of the 11 Idols contesting the world crown, with viewers in the participating countries voting following the broadcast. The voting process will account for population differences between competing countries with all voting details currently being finalised. The second World Idol special will features the thrilling worldwide results as each country's vote is revealed similar to the Eurovision song contest.

The World Idol competitors are as follows:

World Idol will be customized for broadcast in each market, with segments being taped in both London and Australia. Additionally, a representative from each country's judging panel will travel to London to sit on an international jury. With so many different personalities, viewers can look forward to sharp comment, encouragement and high emotion from the judges.

Since it premiered as Pop Idol on ITV in the United Kingdom in October 2001, the Idols format has taken the world by storm, breaking ratings records and scooping numerous industry awards in over 20 countries. Idols winners and finalists have become major new recording artists who have notched up phenomenal album and singles sales and numerous number one chart hits.

Alan Boyd, President of Worldwide Entertainment, FremantleMedia Production, comments: "We are thrilled to announce the production of what promises to be a great global television event. All of the contestants have proved themselves worthy winners in their own countries, and this provides an amazing opportunity for viewers worldwide to see the range of incredible talent that Idols has uncovered around the world.

"The idea for a worldwide Idols competition was conceived some time ago, and for FremantleMedia and 19TV to now be able to realise this project, working with all of our broadcast partners, is absolutely fantastic. With our network of creative teams and production companies around the world, FremantleMedia is uniquely placed to deliver such a complex and in many respects unprecedented event."

World Idol is produced by Fremantle Media and 19TV in association with Network Ten.


Ten to screen American Idol | BACK |
16 November 2003

Network Ten has secured the right to telecast the third series of American Idol to air through January and February. Although network Seven has an agreement with the American Fox Network in Australia, Network Ten has acquired the rights through Fremantle Media and its Australian subsidiary Grundy. The third series of American Idol is scheduled to start early next year with Network Ten broadcasting episodes just days after the original American broadcast. It is set to be one of the highest rating shows during the dull summer period.

Although being screened during the non-ratings period during the Australian summer, the series will continue the momentum that Ten hopes will continue right through to the second series of Australian Idol that is almost certain to be produced by mid-2004.


Experts take sides | BACK |
16 November 2003

Music heavyweights have publicly voiced their opinion on who they believe should be crowned Australian Idol.

"They are poles apart musically, but Guy has got a real talent," music guru "Molly" Meldrum said this week. "They are both good for different reasons. Shannon is mainstream. He is more your Big Brother thing. He has that kind of appeal. Guy is a very good singer."

Nova FM music director Estelle Paterson, Renee Geyer and singing coach David Jaanz, also agree on Sebastian.

"I think Guy should win," Geyer said. "He is a musician, he has his head screwed on straight and knows what he is doing." Geyer said Paulini Curuenavuli, ousted three weeks ago, should have been a grand finalist.

Jaanz, who has taught Delta Goodrem, Tina Arena, Holly Valance and US star Anastasia, supports Sebastian. "Shannon is a very good rock singer, but Guy is a freak," said Jaanz.

Paterson says Nova 100 FM will play Sebastian "no matter what". "Guy has a great voice, he knows what he is doing and he is flat out talented," she said. "I just hope they give him the chance to sing some really good songs. It really will come down to the songs."

However, Michael Halliwell, the head of vocal studies at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music belives that Shannon has a better voice than Guy or Cosima.

Dr Halliwell, 50, is a South African-born, London-trained former opera singer had not seen the hit television show before when he sat in his sound-proof office and worked his way through studio recordings and live television performances of Guy Sebastian, Shannon Noll, Cosima De Vito and Pauline "Paulini" Curuenavuli.

"Shannon's is probably a voice with more range and more dynamic variation and colour variation," he said. "I would classify Shannon's voice from a classical point of view as a light lyric tenor, with a nice easy extension to the top. I think he uses it pretty intelligently, carefully. He is the most comfortable vocally of the four in terms of what he is singing And I think it's a good, strong voice."

Dr Halliwell feels Shannon could respond well to classical training, even though the technique is completely different.

He considers Guy's sound pretty, but limited. "It's almost like a speaking way of singing, it's not really using the full vocal mechanism."

Dr Halliwell agrees that voice quality and star quality are not always the same thing, and that judging the technical quality of voices can depend on repertoire.

But he rates Paulini above Shannon. "Her voice has areas where I think it makes it a little more interesting than his. Of all the four singers she has the widest range of colour.
"It's a voice with a lot of substance, a strong voice."

Although he was taken with Cosima's presentation and "pizzaz", Dr Halliwell found her voice "fairly limited in sound".

Source:
http://entertainment.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,4459,7873466%
255E10431%255E%255Enbv,00.html
http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/11/14/1068674380834.html


Angels Brought Me Here | BACK |
12 November 2003

The winning Australian Idol contestant debut release will be a ballad written by top international hit makers titled "Angels Brought Me Here". The track had its world premiere on last Sunday's Head-to-Head live performance show when both Guy and Shannon sang different versions of the song.

Swedish producer-songwriter Jörgen Elofsson and English songwriter John Reid penned the potential Number One hit single for the Australian Idols. John Reid was written songs for Geri Halliwell and Tina Turner, while the Swedish lyricists Jörgen Elofsson is one of the giants of the pop music industry. Elofsson has written a string of Britney Spears' hits including "(You Drive Me) Crazy", "Baby One More Time", "Oops - I Did It Again" and "Sometimes". The lyricist has also written for Westlife and Steps and had four Number Ones in the UK in 2002 alone. The Swedish producer-songwriter has a strong connection with the Idol format worldwide providing the debut release for UK Pop Idol winner Will Young with 'Evergreen' and UK Idol runner-up Gareth Gates. Elofsson, working with Reid, has also had a US Number One sung by American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson with the debut ballad "A Moment Like This".

With a lot at stake with the success of the Australian Idol winner, other international hit makers were no doubt also employed to provide the best possible tracks for the winning Idol to sing in their upcoming debut album.

Here are the lyrics to the debut single by the Australian Idol- "Angels Brought Me Here".

Angels Brought Me Here
Composed by Jörgen Elofsson and John Reid

It's been a long and winding journey
But I'm finally here tonight
Picking up the pieces
Walking back into the light
To the sunset of your glory
Where my heart and future lies
There's nothing like that feeling
When I look into your eyes

My dreams came true
When I found you
I found you, my miracle

If you could see what I see
That you're the answer to my prayers
And if you can feel
The tenderness I feel
You would know
It would be clear
That angels brought me here

Standing here before you
Feels like I've been born again
Every breath is your love
Every heartbeat speaks your name

My dreams came true
Right here in front of you
My miracle

If you could see what I see
You're the answer to my prayers
If you could feel
The tenderness I feel
You would know
It would be clear
That angels brought me here

Brought me here to be with you
I'd be forever grateful (oh forever grateful)

My dreams came true
When I found you
My miracle

If you could see what I see
You're the answer to my prayers
If you could feel
The tenderness I feel
You would know
It would be clear
That angels brought me here

If you could see what I see
You're the answer to my prayers
If you could feel
The tenderness I feel
You would know
It would be clear
That angels brought me here


Appearance on Rove [live]; Idol Tour | BACK |
12 November 2003

Selected finalists from Australian Idol will embark on a nationwide tour starting next year. Finalists Shannon and Guy, together with selected Top 40 contestants, will tour major capital cities in January and February 2004. The Idol tour was confirmed on Rove [live] after Guy and Shannon appeared on the program. Further details about the concert tour will be announced soon.

Also on Rove [live], Shannon and Guy told of how they have been kept busy during the series with interviews, auditions and recording. Asked whether he enquired about the result after the sudden departure of Cosima last week, Shannon said he did and wanted to know that he was not in the final two by default, however as the lines closed early and that around 40 000 votes are cast in the last hour the producers will never really know the outcome. Asked whether he was concerned about the making of the album, Guy replied that he was surprised at the amount of input both of them had in deciding the tracks at direction of the release. Both Guy and Shannon thought that the debut single "Angles Brought Me Here" was a good song but was also big song to perform.

Guy and Shannon continue on their national appearance tour til Thursday and will begin rehearsals for the Australian Idol grand final at the Sydney Opera House, Wednesday 19 November.



Final head-to-head performance show | BACK |
9 November 2003

Guy and Shannon have performed live in the final round of live theme shows in Australian Idol. The remaining two performed three songs each by artists of their choice including Bryan Adams, Jimmy Barnes, Beyonce and Jackson 5 for the head-to-head show tonight. Top 12 finalists were also in the audience to support the remaining two contestants. Here is a list of what Guy and Shannon sang on the final live performance show before the grand final, 9 November 2003 and their respective voting lines-

SHANNON: 1902 55 55 61
Please Forgive Me
Working Class Man
Angels Brought Me Here

GUY: 1902 55 55 62
I'll Be There
Crazy In Love
Angels Brought Me Here

SMS First Name to 188 99 66

Phone and SMS voting will remain open for ten days. Phone lines open until 8.30pm AEDST, Wednesday 19 November. SMS lines open until 8.30pm AEDST, Wednesday 19 November. Phone voting and SMS voting will be charged at 55 cents. Which contestants will have the least votes? Who will be named the Australian Idol at the Grand Final at the Sydney Opera House on 19 November? Vote for your favourite contestant. You decide who will be the Australian Idol.


Idol TV Schedule | BACK |
9 November 2003

Here is a full list of Australian Idol programs leading up to the November 19 grand final.

Australian Idol Performance Show
Sunday, November 9
Final Live show featuring Guy and Shannon performing three songs each

Quentin Crushes Australian Idol
Monday, November 10
Quentin goes behind the scenes to reveal all the secrets from the making of the show

Australian Idol Encore
Thursday, November 13
A second chance to see Guy and Shannon in action again with a repeat telecast of Sunday's performance show

National Tour Show
Sunday, November 16
Follow Guy and Shannon as they go on a whirlwind tour of Australia

Australian Idol Grand Final
Wednesday, November 19
The two-hour Australian Idol grand final will be telecast live from the Sydney Opera House in a no-to-be-missed Australian television event. It will feature performances from both Guy and Shannon and other former Idol contestants. Idol judge Marcia Hines may also be performing on the night. Who will be the Australian Idol?



Nationwide Appearances | BACK |
9 November 2003

From November 10, Shannon and Guy will embark on a nationwide promotional tour doing press interviews and appearances in Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Sydney. The free live appearances will also involve a possible live performance from Shannon and Guy. Shannon and Guy will also be doing TV appearances, radio and press interviews in each city. All the action from these nationwide appearances will be telecast on the National Tour show on Sunday November 16.

National Appearances

Perth- Monday, November 10
1pm Forrest Place in the Murray Street Mall in Perth's city centre

Adelaide and Melbourne- Tuesday, November 11
6.30 - 9.00am Elder Park, King William Road, near the Festival Theatre in Adelaide
5.30pm Luna Park at the Lower Esplanade, St Kilda, Melbourne

Brisbane- Wednesday, November 12
4.15pm King George Square, Brisbane, near the city centre

Sydney- Thursday, November 13
5.30pm The Show Ring in the Fox Entertainment Precinct of Fox Studios, off Lang Road, Moore Park



Reaction to Cosima's decision | BACK |
4 November 2003

Cosima's decision to withdraw from the competition has been met with negative reactions from Australian Idol fans who question the timing of the announcement by producers. The decision by Cosima and particularly the Idol producers would explain why the votes closed at the beginning of the show and not at the usual 7:40pm tonight. Also the three contests were unable to perform the song that they prepared for the show together which they rehearsed with the movement coach due to Cosima's voice problems. Here are some of the thoughts received by email or posted on the Inside Australian Idol forum.

From Krisara:
Disappointed about the way the show was handled, for all the people who voted for Cosima and the money wasted, did Shannon rightfully get in to second place? If he did, then the event really stole his thunder... the results should have been viewed and then if Cosima was through, she should have withdrawn...

From mangoman:
The producers of show the knew the whole time Cosima is leaving and took advantage of that to build a dramatic twist at the end when the final verdict is to be delivered. They don't give a damn about those people who probably voted and have been kept waiting for the result. It's still unknown whether it's Cosima or Shannon who's got the lowest vote. Good old trick to sensatonalize TV. As for Cosima, why did she have to wait until the "vote results" to announce her withdrawal? Why didn't she make that announcement last night? People could have voted for someone else from the remaining idols.

From Pina:
Hi everyone, I have been watching the show from the beginning and tonight was the worst night to watch. Who does she think she is, she cheated Shannon out of knowing if he got in because he was voted in or was meant to leave. I feel the fans had a right to know which way it went between them both. If she had to give her little drama speech, she could've waited to see if she had made to the final two instead of making out that she was actually doing Shannon a favour. It was a selfish thing to do to take away a possible merit from another. I believe she should have gone last week instead of Paulini. I was really disappointed tonight and annoyed that it was left at that. The viewers had a right to know who the second person in was through the voting, after all it's us out here that take the time to keep dialling for our favourites. Pina

From Really Pissed off:
I'm wondering about the timing at which the show & its producers knew Cossima was going to withdraw. Did they allow us to continue to vote anyway? Is this not misleading and deceptive conduct? Taking our money with the knowledge that our votes won't make any difference? If it's not this then it's definately unconscionable conduct!
Also, with regards to the timing of Cossima's announcement - what the hell? Why not just say that Shannon was third - because that's how it looks now. Why not announce it before anyone went through? Or why not say "that's very unfortunate Cossima, but you weren't going through anyway!"
What a very disappointing way to see the final two decided. Or not decided!!! If they get us to vote, then they should give us the results REGARDLESS OF SOME NOT SO "AWESOME" AND NOT SO "AMAZING" COSSIMA!
This sux!!! I voted and I want my money back!!! (and I'm serious!!!)
What a crap evening! What a crap thing for Cossima to do! She's no diva - she's a manipulative, piker who didn't want to lose! They just ruined a really great show!

From supporter:
You lot all are a bunch closed minded fouls! If you know anything about music and singing in general you'd know that despite her timing that I admit wasnt great, cosima actually not only did a gutsy as all hell thing, but made a really smart decision...for herself. Ive been hearing her strain for the last month. When your voice is strained and damaged, if you dont give it enough time to rest, you WILL do it permanant damage! Im a vocal graduate ...i know. For all you cosima suapporters..if she'd gotten thru, she wouldnt have survived the touring and recording little lone the final. dont be so insensitive and dont make a stupid comment when you knowing nothing about it. GO COS

From padalamb:
If Cosima wanted to withdraw, why didn't she before they voted Guy through? Why did she wait until there was just her and Shannon? I feel sorry for Shannon, did he get through on his own merits. I hope so.

From Doctor drac:
The timing of the announcement was interesting. I ask the same questions as Pandalamb - why then? I think the producers wanted at that point - as the show can be stretched out to nearly the same length as if she did not make the announcement!! Cynical move on the producer's part.
On the whole issue of Cosima's voice - one could certainly tell it was not in good shape. Leaving this way took a lot of guts. Good luck in your future career Cosima.

What do you think? Have your say on the Inside Australian Idol Forum.


Cosima's extraordinary withdrawal | BACK |
3 November 2003

Only Guy and Shannon are left after the top three contestants were reduced to just two after popular contestant Cosima's shock withdrawal from the series under extraordinary circumstances in tonight's live results show. Hosts Andrew G and James Mathison brought up each of the remaining three contestants of which one would be eliminated tonight and the other two progressing to the November 19 final.

After a tense moment, the hosts told Guy that he would progress to the Grand Final, leaving Shannon and Cosima contending for a position to join Guy. After the commercial break, Cosima stepped forward and told the audience that she had recently developed a throat problem and due to the tough schedule of the coming weeks it was with great regret that she had to withdraw from the competition.

The shocked live audience and judges then gave Cosima a standing ovation. Over the past few weeks the public and judges have noticed her voice greatly deteriorating and becoming very husky. She was not able to perform her song from last night's show again, but promised that with some rest she would be able to recover and come back stronger than ever.

Tune in this Thursday for Inside Idol for all the behind-the-scenes footage from tonight's extraordinary events and next Sunday to see the final live performance show where Guy and Shannon will each sing three songs including the single that the potential Idol will release at the completion of the competition. And on November 19 for the Australian Idol Grand Final to be held at the Sydney Opera House. Which contestant will be eliminated next week and who will be the Australian Idol?



Cast Album debuts at #3 | BACK |
3 November 2003

The Australian Idol Top 12 finalists cast album is #3 on the official Aria Album Charts. The contestant's cast album reached number three in its first week of release behind fellow Australian artists Delta Goodrem and John Farnham. Meanwhile, the Top 12's single release 'Rise Up' is again in the top spot at number 1 in the official Aria charts in its third week of release. The single beat 50 cent and Black Eyed Peas to the top spot this week.

Also, the first single for our first Idol is currently being recorded and mastered. At this point in time, it is impossible to know who will win the comp, so Ian "Dicko" Dickson has made sure that Shannon and Guy have both recorded exactly the same single, which will be released when the competition winner is announced on November 19. Will it be Guy or Shannon? You decide.



60's performance show | BACK |
2 November 2003

The remaining three finalists have performed live in the seventh round of live theme shows in Australian Idol. The contestants performed two songs each by artists from the 1960's including Dusty Springfield, Frankie Valli, the Beatles, Tina Turner among others for the themed show on tonight. The Top 3 were accompanied by a massive 27-piece band, consisting of back up singers, trumpets, drums, harp, cello, piano and violins live on stage, lead by John Foreman. Special guests Nikki Webster and Idol Top 40 finalists Courtney Act were also in the audience to support the remaining three contestants.

Here is a list of what each of the remaining three Australian Idol finalist sang on the seventh episode of the live themed show, 2 November 2003 and their respective voting lines-

SHANNON: 1902 55 55 61
One (Is The Loneliest Number)
Hey Jude

GUY: 1902 55 55 62
Can't Take My Eyes Off You
Climb Every Mountain

COSIMA: 1902 55 55 63
You Don't Have To Say You Love Me
River Deep, Mountain High

SMS First Name to 188 99 66

Phone lines open until 7.40pm AEDST, Monday 3 November. SMS lines open until 7.40pm AEDST, Monday 3 November. Phone voting and SMS voting will be charged at 55 cents.

Which contestants will have the least votes? Vote for your favourite contestant to keep them in. You decide who will be the Australian Idol. Tune in tomorrow from 7:30pm to see who will be told that they are heading home and which two will perform in the Grand Final at the Sydney Opera House on 19 November.


Paulini eliminated | BACK |
27 October 2003

Only three Australian Idol finalists are left after the Top 4 contestants were reduced to just three after popular contestant Paulini was eliminated from the series in tonight's live results show. Before the results were announced, the Top 4 performed the together for the last time. After the live performance, hosts Andrew G and James Mathison named the two contestants, which had the least amount of votes. They were Guy and Paulini, of these contestants one would be eliminated tonight and the other safe for another week.

The shocked judges, contestants and audience were then told that the popular Fijian born performer Paulini was the contestant to be eliminated tonight. The live audience were able to show their appreciation to Paulini while she performed 'At Last' from last night's themed Big Band show again.

Tune in this Thursday for Inside Idol and next Sunday to see the seventh live performance show based on hits with the 1960's. Which contestant will be eliminated next week? With only three contestants left you decide the Australian Idol.


Cast Album goes Gold | BACK |
27 October 2003

The Australian Idol Top 12 finalists have all obtained their first Gold Album. The contestant's cast album has shipped Gold in its first day of release and its tipped to top the album charts next week.

Meanwhile, the Top 12's single release 'Rise Up' is again in the top spot at number 1 in the official Aria charts in its second week of release. The single, a cover of a previously recoded Vanessa Amorosi track on her 'Turn To Me' album, beat Delta Goodrem, Black Eyed Peas and 50 Cent to the top spot this week.


Big Band performance show | BACK |
26 October 2003

The remaining four finalists have performed live in the sixth round of live theme shows in Australian Idol. The contestants performed two songs each by artists from the Big Band era including Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles and Natalie Cole among others for the themed show on tonight. The Top 4 were accompanied by a 17-piece Big Band live on stage lead by John Foreman, featuring four trumpets, five saxophones, four trombones, guitar, bass, drums and piano. Special guests Kasey Chambers and Belinda Emmett were also in the audience to support the remaining four contestants.

Here is a list of what each of the remaining four Australian Idol finalist sang on the sixth episode of the live themed show, 26 October 2003 and their respective voting lines-

SHANNON: 1902 55 55 61
'New York, New York'/'Under My Skin'

PAULINI: 1902 55 55 62
'At Last'/'Almost Like Being In Love'

COSIMA: 1902 55 55 63
'L-O-V-E'/'Smile'

GUY: 1902 55 55 64
'Hit the Road, Jack!'/'The Way You Look Tonight'

SMS First Name to 188 99 66

Phone lines open until 7.40pm, Monday 27 October. SMS lines open until 7.40pm, Monday 27 October. Phone voting and SMS voting will be charged at 55 cents.

Which contestants will have the least votes? Vote for your favourite contestant to keep them in. You decide who will be the Australian Idol. Tune in tomorrow from 7:30pm to see who will be told that they are heading home and who are safe for another week.


Idol Merchandise | BACK |
26 October 2003

The Australian Idol cast album will be released tomorrow together with an array of diverse Idol merchandise. While the Idol cast album, featuring the entire final 12, will be available at all good music retailers from tomorrow, the Idol merchandise dose not stop there. With the #1 single, album and karaoke DVD already available, an Uncut Australian Idol DVD will also be available for purchase from tomorrow.

The Australian Idol Uncut DVD is a "hilarious journey through the trials and tribulations of the early auditions of Australian Idol.

Hosted by Ian "Dicko" Dickson, this is a collection of some of the weird and funniest exploits of these would be pop stars.

It's all here. Never before seen footage, UnCut, unedited brilliance from some of the true characters that came out of the woodwork for Australian Idol.

There are several features here that the viewer can navigate through and explore. They include "Dicko's World", a screen filled with six different doors that you may enter at your own peril as well some very funny interactive stuff."

A songbook, featuring sheet music is already in production and karaoke machines and board games will also be marketed soon. Get ready for an onslaught of Australian Idol inspired merchandise and commercial profiteering riding on the success of the TV program just in time for Christmas.

For all the latest merchandise, click here.
To listen to audio clips of songs from the album, click here.


Contact your Idol | BACK |
26 October 2003

Want to send your favourite Idol contestant fan mail? Just send your message to the following address.

[ Name of Idol ]
c/- Australian Idol
Network Ten
1 Saunders Street
Pyrmont
Sydney NSW 2009


Millsy eliminated | BACK |
20 October 2003

Only four Australian Idol finalists are left after the Top 5 contestants were reduced to just four after Millsy was eliminated from the series after tonight's live results show. Before the lines closed, the Top 5 performed the R'n'B song "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" together for the last time. After the live performance, hosts Andrew G and James Mathison named the two contestants, which had the least amount of votes. They were Cosima and Rob, of these contestants one would be eliminated tonight and the other safe for another week.

The emotional judges and contestants were then told that the popular 'larrikin' Rob Mills was the contestant to be eliminated tonight. The live audience were able to show their appreciation to Millsy while he performed 'Turn Back the Hands of Time' from last night's themed show again.

Tune in this Thursday for Inside Idol and next Sunday to see the sixth live performance show based on hits with the Big Band. Which contestant will be eliminated next week? You decide the Australian Idol.



Rise Up #1 | BACK |
20 October 2003

The Australian Idol Top 12 finalist have obtained their first number 1 hit. The contestant's debut single 'Rise Up' debuted on the official Aria charts in the number one position in its first week of sale. The release beat Black Eyed Peas and Delta Goodrem to the top spot and is a bullet.


R'n'B/Soul performance show | BACK |
19 October 2003

The remaining five finalists have performed live in the fifth round of live theme shows in Australian Idol. The contestants performed two songs each by R'n'B/Soul artists including Lionel Richie, R. Kelly, Aretha Franklin and Destiny's Child among others for the themed show on tonight. Contrary to information provided in TV guides, Usher did not make an appearance on tonight's program.
Here is a list of what each of the remaining five Australian Idol finalist sang on the fifth episode of the live themed show, 19 October 2003 and their respective voting lines-

SHANNON: 1902 55 55 61
'When A Man Loves A Woman'/'Higher And Higher'

PAULINI: 1902 55 55 62
'Unbreak My Heart'/'Survivor'

GUY: 1902 55 55 63
'Hello'/'Hidden Agenda'

COSIMA: 1902 55 55 64
'Respect'/'I Believe I Can Fly'

ROB: 1902 55 55 65
'Too Close'/'Turn Back The Hands Of Time'

SMS First Name to 188 99 66

Phone lines open until 7.40pm, Monday 20 October. SMS lines open until 7.40pm, Monday 20 October. Phone voting and SMS voting will be charged at 55 cents.

Which contestants will have the least votes? Vote for your favourite contestant to keep them in. You decide who will be the Australian Idol. Tune in tomorrow from 7:30pm to see who will be told that they are heading home and who are safe for another week.


Cast Album released next week | BACK |
19 October 2003

Following the success of the 'Rise Up' single, the Australian Idol cast album will be released next Monday 27 October. The 14 track CD features songs from each of the top 12 contestants along with the group track 'Rise Up' and a Marcia Hines song. The full tracklisting includes:

1. Peter- Burn For You
2. Matt- Wide Awake And Dreaming
3. Guy- Wonderful World
4. Kelly- The Show Must Go On
5. Paulini- One Thing Leads To Another
6. Rob- Dirty Girl
7. Lauren- Always And Forever
8. Shannon- Hold Me In Your Arms
9. Cle- Ladies
10. Marcia Hines- Movin' On
11. Cosima- You Believe In Me
12. Rebekah- Dance With You
13. Levi- Levi's Slow Ride
14. The Final 12- Rise Up



Controversial comments to Paulini | BACK |
19 October 2003

Both Mark and Dicko made controversial comments on Paulini's choice of clothing for her second performance on tonight live performance show. Mark didn't like her choice of clothing for her costume change while Dicko said that she needed to choose another outfit or "shed some pounds". Inside Australian Idol received this email from Tracy:

As a psychologist I was disgusted by Dicko's comments re Paulini's weight and dress. To educate the ignorant It is typical of Fijian culture for women to be larger as that is what is the custom. In addition the media has a huge role in the development of eating disorders in young women. I felt mark's comment about dress was appropriate but Dicko's comments about weight was not only rude and ignorant but extremely uneducated, tactless and hurtful. She's only 21 years old! You should be ashamed.

What do you think? Was Mark/Dicko out of line? Were their comments valid? Does image/weight/clothing play a vital role in becoming the Australian Idol? Have your say in the Inside Australian Idol forum.



Levi eliminated | BACK |
13 October 2003

Only five Australian Idol finalists are left after the six contestants were reduced to five after Levi was eliminated from the series after tonight's live results show. Before the lines closed, the Top 6 performed "Don't Stop Till You Get Enough" by Michael Jackson together for the last time. After the live performance, hosts Andrew G and James Mathison named the three contestants which had the least amount of votes. They were Shannon, Paulini and Levi, of these contestants one would be eliminated tonight.

The emotional judges and contestants were then told that Levi was the contestant to be eliminated tonight. The judges were clearly surprised by the popular contestant's elimination. The live audience were able to show their appreciation to Levi while he performed 'Every Little Step' from last night's themed show again with his brother. Both Shannon and Paulini were lucky enough to have another opportunity to perform in the next round.

Tune in this Tuesday for a special episode of Australian Idol, Thursday for Inside Idol and next Sunday to see the fifth live performance show based on hit R'n'B/Soul songs. Which contestant will be eliminated next week? You decide the Australian Idol.



Australian Idol- Half Way Home | BACK |
13 October 2003

A special episode of Australian Idol will be screened on Tuesday 14 October at 8:30pm. The special "Australian Idol- Half Way Home/Up Close and Personal" will be a chance for the studio and TV audiences to learn more about the Top 5 Australian Idol constants. Studio audience members will be able to ask questions to the Idol contestants and the show will also feature performance by the remaining Australian Idols with a live string orchestra. Proceeds from the special episode will assist McDonald's charity Ronald McDonald House. Tune in this Tuesday 14 October at 8:30pm on Network Ten for the special 60-minute Australian Idol special.



Special Guest- Usher | BACK |
13 October 2003

Next week's R'n'B/Soul themed Sunday 'live' performance show will feature BMG international R'n'B artist Usher. The official Yahoo TV guide says the following on next weeks Australian Idol show.

"Program Details : Sunday Oct 19 2003
7:30pm - 8:30pm | TEN
Australian Idol
Genre: Entertainment
The remaining Idol's are dripping with rhythm, full of soul and can certainly sing the blues. With Special Guest Usher, tonight's RNB/Soul final will be a talent packed spectacular not to be missed."



1980's performance show | BACK |
12 October 2003

The six finalists have performed live in the forth round of live theme shows in Australian Idol. The contestants performed songs by artists from the 1980's including Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, Prince and Bon Jovi among others for the '80's themed show on tonight.

Here is a list of what each of the remaining six Australian Idol finalist sang on the forth episode of the live themed show, 12 October 2003 and their respective voting lines-

Shannon: 'Living On A Prayer' 1902 55 55 61
Paulini: 'Freeway Of Love' 1902 55 55 62
Levi: 'Every Little Step' 1902 55 55 63
Cosima: 'What's Love Got To Do With It' 1902 55 55 64
Rob: 'If I Could' 1902 55 55 65
Guy: 'When Doves Cry' 1902 55 55 66

SMS First Name to 188 99 66

Phone lines open until 7.40pm, Monday 13 October. SMS lines open until 7.40pm, Monday 13 October. Phone voting and SMS voting will be charged at 55 cents.

Which contestants will have the least votes? Vote for your favourite contestant to keep them in. You decide who will be the Australian Idol. Tune in tomorrow from 7:30pm to see who will be told that they are heading home and who are safe for another week.



"Rise Up" CD Single | BACK |
12 October 2003

The first commercial release from the Australian Idol finalists will be available from tomorrow when the Top 12's first CD single "Rise Up" goes on sale. The cast single, which features all of the top twelve finalists, is set for release on Monday, 13th October. An Australian Idol inspired Karaoke DVD will also be available from tomorrow at all major music retail stores.



Kelly and Rebekah eliminated | BACK |
6 October 2003

Only six finalists of Australian Idol are left after the Top 8 was reduced by another two after Kelly and Rebekah were eliminated from the series after tonight's live results show. Before the lines closed at 7:40pm, the Top 8 performed together for the last time, singing "" by Australian band INXS. After the energetic live performance, hosts Andrew and James named the contestants which had the least amount of votes. They were Levi, Rebekah and Kelly.

The emotional contestants were then told that Kelly was the first contestant eliminated from Australian Idol tonight. After dodging a bullet over the past three consecutive weeks 'rock chick' Kelly was finally eliminated tonight. The live audience were able to show their appreciation to Kelly while she performed her 'Killing Heidi' song from last night's themed show again. The next contestant who was told that she was eliminated was Rebekah, leaving Levi with another opportunity to perform in the next round. Rebekah was able to perform her emotional song to the audience for one last time.

Tune in this Thursday for Inside Idol and next Sunday to see the forth live performance show based on hit songs from the 80's. Which contestant will be eliminated next week? You decide the Australian Idol.




'Rise Up' Music Video | BACK |
6 October 2003

The Rise Up video clip has been released for preview. The streaming video clip, which features footage of all of the Top 12 contestants from the Australian Idol series, can be seen via the BMG website at this link: http://www.click2music.com.au/dynamicmeta.boa?id=23028
Thanks to A Chen for the link.

Also check out the official BMG Australian Idol page at http://www.bmg.com.au/artist/AustralianIdol and the page for 'Rise Up' at http://www.click2music.com.au/title/82876567492 . The cast single, "Rise Up", is set for release on Monday, 13th October.


Australian Made performance show | BACK |
5 October 2003

The eight finalists have performed live in the third round of 'live' theme shows in Australian Idol. The contestants sang songs made famous by Australian artists including INXS, Savage Garden, Powderfinger, Tina Arena and John Farnham among others for the locally themed show on tonight.

Here is a list of what each of them sang on the third episode of the 'live' themed show, 5 October 2003 and their respective voting lines-

Kelly 'Mascara' 1902 55 55 61
Shannon 'Already Gone' 1902 55 55 62
Rebekah 'Heading in the Right Direction' 1902 55 55 63
Levi 'To the Moon and Back' 1902 55 55 64
Paulini 'Chains' 1902 55 55 65
Rob 'Take Me Back' 1902 55 55 66
Cosima 'When the War is Over' 1902 55 55 67
Guy 'You're the Voice' 1902 55 55 68

SMS First Name to 188 99 66

Phone lines open until 7.40pm, Monday 6 October. SMS lines open until 7.40pm, Monday 6 October. Phone voting and SMS voting will be charged at 55 cents.

Which two contestants will have the least votes? Vote for your favourite contestant to keep them in. You decide who will be the Australian Idol. Tune in tomorrow from 7:30pm to see who will be told that they are heading home and who are safe.


Australian Idol CD and Karaoke DVD | BACK |
5 October 2003

Australian Idol CDs and Karaoke DVDs will be available in stores from next Monday. The cast single, "Rise Up", which features all of the top twelve finalists is set for release on Monday, 13th October. Here is what Sanity says of the release on their website: "...After 10000 auditions from every corner of Australia the Final12 have been selected: Peter, Rebekah, Shannon, Guy, Robert, Lauren, Levi, Kelly, Paulini, Cosima, Cle and Mathew.

Together they have recorded their first single - Rise Up- a perfect song of taking a challenge and rising to the occasion and feeling proud of the result. This song is uplifting and powerful and with all their amazing vocals you can't help but love this track."

Australian Idol producers will also be releasing a Karaoke DVD of popular songs which contain eight vocal, instrumental and visual mixes for each track and easy to follow screen menus.

The DVD will also be available from next Monday, 13 October with Special features including:
Full Vocal Mix - Karaoke - Instrumental - No Drums - No Bass - No Guitar - No Keyboard - Full Graphics or Blue Screen Options - On or Off Lyrics - Full Menu Compatible with DVD players including Playstation2 and X Box.

Track Listing:
1. Stole- Made Famous By Kelly Rowland
2. Heaven- Made Famous By Dj Sammy
3. Lose Yourself- Made Famous By Eminem
4. Hero- Made Famous By Enrique Iglesias
5. Beautiful- Made Famous By Christina Aguilera
6. Cry Me A River- Made Famous By Justin Timberlake
7. Whenever, Wherever- Made Famous By Shakira
8. Eternal Flame- Made Famous By Atomic Kitten
9. Ain't It Funny- Made Famous By j-lo
10. Follow Me- Made Famous By Uncle Kracker
11. Adreinne- Made Famous By The Calling
12. Get Ur Freak On- Made Famous By Missy Elliot


Cle and Lauren eliminated | BACK |
29 September 2003

The Top 10 of Australian Idol was reduced by another two after Cle and Lauren were eliminated from the series after tonight's live results show. Before the lines closed at 7:40pm, the Top 10 and the audience was treated to a pre-recorded live performance of chart topping hit "Miss Independent" by American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson. The Top 10 also performed together, singing "All Night Long" by ----. After the energetic live performance, hosts Andrew and James named the contestants which had the least amount of votes. They were Cle, Lauren and Kelly.

The emotional contestants were then told that Cle was the first contestant eliminated from Australian Idol tonight. The live audience were able to show their appreciation to Cle while she performed her song from last night's themed show again. The next contestant who was told that she was eliminated was Lauren, leaving Kelly with another opportunity to perform in the next round. Lauren was able to perform "Lady Marmalade" to the live and TV audience for one last time with the help of Cle and the other contestants after being overcome with emotion. Kelly was again relieved to have made it through the second round of eliminations, dodging another bullet.

Tune in this Thursday for Inside Idol and next Sunday to see the third live performance show based on Australian songs. Which two will be eliminated next week? You decide the Australian Idol.



Sunday Night's Live Studio Audience Experience | BACK |
28 September 2003

Inside Australian Idol was there in the studio audience to watch the action unfold live on the first of the themed shows. Once arriving at the Global Television Studios in North Sydney audience members were forced to wait in line over an hour before being allowed to enter the secured studio. Mobile phone and bags were removed from all audience members and stored in a secured room. The audience was also screened by a metal detector by studio security before even being allowed into the building. The studio also provided markers and cardboard so banners and signs could be made by the audience on the night.

During the wait in line it was revealed by someone who knows someone that Liban on the previous week's Wildcard show had even more trouble than what was shown on the performance show. Liban stopped half way through his performance and requested that he started again. Contestants, judges and producers alike were unimpressed. Idol editors had their work cut out to try and make the Somalian refugee's performance look coherent for the Wildcard show.

All members of the audience were supplied with a colour-coded wristband, once being allowed in the building. Family members and friends of the Idol contestants were ushered through a separate VIP door on the night with separate navy blue wristbands. The VIP's were seated around the studio among the general audience for production purposes.

After a long wait standing in line and being crammed into a small hall, at 7:15pm the audience was seated in front of the impressive new set. The produces then introduced Australian Idol hosts Andrew G and Matthew Mathison to the crowd and gave a quick briefing on when to clap and when to cheer for the broadcast. Judges Ian, Marcia and Mark then entered the studio and were seated at centre, front of stage. Vocal coach Erana Clark, then performed "Let's Get Loud" to get the audience hyped and in the mood. As the program went live to air, the contestants were introduced to the live audience. Once the contestants performed each of their songs and received their feedback from the judges, they were ushered off stage at the end of the segment and in many case straight into the arms of mentor and coach Erana. Some contestants were very emotional and notably upset after their performance.

Producers were on hand to tell the audience when to clap and cheer throughout the night, at the start and end of commercials and at the start and end of performances. The autocue was working overtime on the night with both Andrew and James reading their tightly produced script via a large plasma screen and via small screens on top of several cameras. The script, however, did allow for adlib by the hosts and judges. The hosts were great to the audience throughout the night providing entertainment during the commercial breaks. The commercial breaks were 3 minutes in length with a female producer counting down the remaining time to the return to the live broadcast. The hosts and judges also all had their make-up touched up at every available chance by the Maybelline Style Team. It was great to see Dicko's nose being powered by the girls.

It was also interesting to note, that there was no live band on the night with Good Morning Australia's John Foreman having pre-recorded the 'live' acoustic music. He was even seated among the audience with not a piano in sight. But who's complaining, no one can conduct and arrange music for 12 contestants back to back without a break with a band.

It was a great night of live performances and it was interesting to see how live TV was made, well done to the Australian Idol production team.



Official Message Board reveals too much | BACK |
28 September 2003

The moderators of the Official Australian Idol Yahoo Group had to send an email to all members after sensitive information was posted on the message boards. Several members of the group have posted mobile numbers, addresses and other private information about Australian Idol contestants, creating headaches for moderators on the popular Yahoo group. One of the major issues that could have caused even greater concern was that some members revealed the location of the Idol HQ, where all Idol contestants are currently living.

Here is the message sent to members on Friday by goosmurf, a moderator of the group,

"hi folks,

This morning there were a few posts to the group regarding the location of Idol HQ.

Such posts are considered inappropriate for this forum. Its extremely inconsiderate to the people living in and around the area because whether or not the details are correct there are many fans who will pay a visit just to see - how would you like it if someone posted YOUR address claiming it was the location of Idol HQ?

Please also refrain from posting private details of your Idols - phone numbers, addresses, etc are all out of bounds for the same reasons.

Please, think about the effects of such postings before clicking "Send".

Any further posts on the above will be removed and the responsible parties banned.

Thanks."


Idols lip-sync at AFL Grand Final | BACK |
28 September 2003

In a major step backwards for the credibility of Australian Idol contestants, the remaining 10 finalists lip-synced their 'live' performance at the AFL Grand Final this past weekend. In what seemed like a tribute to Holly Valance and other manufactured pop stars, all Idol contestants, and the majority of the other pre-match entertainment, performed to a prerecorded track. There performance of popular football songs "One Day in September" and "Up There Cazaly", was noticeably simulated despite their best efforts in miming.

The CD quality audio and the presence of flimsy looking microphones gave away their act, which was seen by 80 000 people in the crowd and millions at home. However, despite their intentions, it did allow audiences to hear their vocal ability in the studio, which greatly differs from the live vocals as seen on the weekly performance shows. Levi, Kelly, Lauren and Cle surprisingly have very good recorded vocals.

This is the first time any of the idol contestants have either lip-synced or performed to a prerecorded track, hopefully it's also their last.


#1 performance show | BACK |
28 September 2003

The 10 finalists have performed live in the second round of 'live' theme shows in Australian Idol. The contestants sang songs from Justin Timberlake, Janet Jackson, Silverchair, The Bangles among others for the Number 1's themed show on tonight. Here is a list of what each of them sang on the second episode of the 'live' themed show, 28 September 2003 and their respective voting lines-

Cosima 'I Wanna Dance With Somebody' 1902 55 55 61 <