FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
*** MEDIA ALERT***
TOBY MOULTON ANNOUNCES HIS DECISION TO WITHDRAW
FROM AUSTRALIAN IDOL
Sunday 1 November, 2009. Australian Idol contestant Toby Moulton
announced on tonight’s show his decision to withdraw from the
competition.
In an emotional statement Toby said:
“After many, many hours of soul searching and many sleepless nights, I
have decided to withdraw from the competition tonight. I have come
to a point where I have realised that at this stage I do not want a
career in music and these four people do.
“They each have an enthusiasm and drive that I cannot match and I
must step aside so that they have the best chance to prosper as young
Australian artists.
I must be real with myself and feel I
can no longer
continue on this adventure.
“My biggest consideration when making this decision was those
beautiful people who have become fans. I will miss the smiles, hellos
and beautiful messages you have blessed me with.
“I know that many of you have
invested many hours and money on
me, all I can say is I’m very sorry if I’ve let you down.
“I’m sorry to my family and friends who have helped me in so many
ways –
you know how much –
particularly my mum, dad, Locky and
Cam, who have travelled from home to be here tonight.
“I pray you will understand that I have to make the right decision for
me and my future at this time. I hope I have been able to bring you joy
through my songs and through the person I am.
“I know many of you identified with me, the school teacher who just
decided to have a go, someone who acted on his passion. I hope my
decision doesn’t leave you downhearted.
“I have had the most amazing experience of my life. I now know who I
am. I am a teacher. I am a teacher who knows he can sing and is no
longer afraid of being heard.
“To my school kids, I told all of you to have a go, especially at things
you are passionate about. I am sorry if I have disappointed you.
“All of Australia knows how much I care about you all and how much I
love my job. I think it’s taken this experience to realise this.
“My decision is no way reflects on Australian Idol and all the wonderful
people involved on the show. You have all been incredible. Thank
you for all your help, encouragement and support. I feel blessed to
consider you my friends.
“Thank you for all the time and effort, I’ve had the time of my life. I
simply know in my heart of hearts I can no longer continue.
“Thanks you to my fellow contestants, you have been an inspiration to
me.
“If
it’s okay with you guys, I’d love to be up on stage with you at the
grand final. I can’t wait.
“I’ll miss you all and pray you all continue to shine and never forget the
magic of music.
“Thank you.”
As a result of Toby’s departure there was no elimination on tonight’s
show. Andrew G announced that as a result of the public vote Toby
would have been in the bottom three this week alongside Nathan
Brake and James Johnston.
Nathan and James went on to perform on tonight’s show alongside
the other remaining contestants Stan Walker and Hayley Warner.
Ends
For further information please contact:
Katie Holyman – FremantleMedia Australia
Ph: 0420 231 790
Katie.holyman@fremantlemedia.com.au
Sarah Johnson – Network TEN
Ph: 0415 769 066
sjohnson@networkten.com.au
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