Monday's verdict program to allow bottom three Idols second chance to perform and viewers' second chance to vote
Network Ten, FremantleMedia Australia (FMA) and 19 Entertainment introduce an Idol first with Monday night Australian Idol verdict programs undergoing innovative changes in this year's 6th season, launching on TEN Sunday 24th August.
Shock eliminations of Ricki-Lee Coulter ('04) and Bobby Flynn ('06) will be a thing of the past as audiences will be given one more chance to save their favourite Idol after they've landed in the bottom three (3).
Monday night verdict programs will now commence with the live announcement of the bottom 3 contestants at the start of the show. The 3 in jeopardy will take to the stage to perform once more in a last-ditch effort to win over the audience, build on their vote and prove worthy to continue the Idol journey.
As soon as all 3 have sung, their voting lines will re-open, to enable Australia to save their favourite 2 singers. Then James and Andrew will join them on stage for the dramatic reveal of the contestant leaving the competition.
Network Ten and FMA have worked very closely with Simon Fuller, Chief Executive of 19 Entertainment and creator of Idol, as all believe Australian Idol will continue to grow. Idol is the most successful entertainment format in the world and Australia is a key market in the brands success. Australian Idol is undergoing a rejuvenation that will see the program dominate the television and music landscapes for years to come.
David Mott, TEN's chief programming officer, said "The Australian Idol audience is a discerning one and TEN are committed to ensuring the franchise remains dynamic, current and relevant in this market.
"Idol remains one of the most successful entertainment franchises in Australia and a significant program in TEN's stable of shows.
"We are dedicated to safeguarding its appeal to our audience and these are a few improvements we've been able to introduce that will future proof this show for years to come."
Mark Fennessy, Chief Executive Officer of FremantleMedia Australia, confirms there are more exciting changes to come. “The performers this year will be excited to learn there are key announcements still to be made regarding the winner’s prize and the winners single.
"And with Rickie-Lee joining the already incredibly strong on-air team Idol is going to have a fantastic year.”
Australian Idol premieres on Network Ten on Sunday, August 24 at 7.30pm.
Australian Idol is produced by FremantleMedia Australia Pty Limited and is based on a format owned by FremantleMedia Ltd and 19 TV Limited.