James Mathison quits Australian Idol
Australian Idol co-host James Mathison has quit the popular reality series, citing a desire to step away from television and focus on his own music. Mathison's departure means Andrew Gunsberg aka Andrew G will now host the series solo.
"We are sad to see James leave," a TEN statement said.
"We have had a great relationship with him on Idol over the last six years and we wish him well with his new ventures.
"Andrew G has done an impeccable job as co-host to date, and we're more than confident in his abilities to host Idol on his own."
The two men have hosted the series together since its inception in 2002, following appearances on pay television. Mathison won a $20 Challenge video audition and scored a role on Channel [V]. Andrew G was also a presenter on the same channel.
On Australian Idol Mathison has always been a slightly more off the wall presenter, allowing Andrew G to be the more conventional host. This has also led to Mathison being a co-host of several ARIA Awards. Staged on the same nights as Idol, the event preparation allowed Andrew G to host the series solo. This puts him in good stead for the next season of Idol.
TEN indicates Ricki-Lee Coulter will make a return of sorts to the series this year, but wouldn't confirm if she will resume her "backstage hosting role", added in 2008.
Gunsberg will be more than capable of hosting alone. After all, in the US American Idol is also hosted solo, by Ryan Seacrest.
The hunt for the next Idol continues around the country with stops still planned from Bathurst to Hobart.
Online auditions at australianidol.com.au will close at midnight (AEST) on Thursday, April 9th.
Took him long enough. His talent is better used somewhere else, somewhere worthy of it. That show is a waste of air time.
It's boring the show
I'd get bored of it too, lets just hope AJ from the biggest loser follows his path.