Iconic Australian music legend and former Australian Idol judge Marcia Hines will join Australian Idol as a guest judge when the series premieres on Channel 7 and 7plus in 2023.
The beloved musical treasure was an original judge on the star-making series from 2003 to 2009 and will return once more to lend her expertise as the nation searches for its next singing sensation.
“I feel honoured to have been asked to come back. Australian Idol is a great vehicle for uncovering some fantastic Australian talent. What a ride!” said Marcia ahead of her return to the hit series.
Marcia says nervous contestants should just be themselves and let their talent shine: “I know it’s not an easy task singing in front of strangers, but I hope that contestants show us their heart and the gift that is their voice.”
With a career spanning five decades, Marcia has released 22 albums and sold 2.6 million copies, garnering countless chart-topping singles and multi-platinum records globally. Inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2007, Marcia continues to remain one of Australia’s most-loved music artists.
The Australian Idol judging panel includes celebrated American Idol judge, musician, singer, composer and multiple Grammy® award-winning Harry Connick Jr; powerhouse Grammy® award-winning singer-songwriter Meghan Trainor; unfiltered and unapologetic top-rating broadcaster Kyle Sandilands; and beloved eight-time ARIA Award-winning singer-songwriter Amy Shark.
A global success since 2001, the Idol franchise has launched the careers of many multi-award-winning artists including Aussies Guy Sebastian, Jessica Mauboy, Matt Corby, Ricki-Lee, Anthony Callea, Stan Walker, Casey Donovan and Courtney Act.
International music icons Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Hudson and Adam Lambert also launched their brilliant careers on the Idol stage.
Australian Idol will be hosted by multi-platinum-selling, ARIA Award-nominated singer-songwriter Ricki-Lee – who was discovered on Australian Idol in 2004 – and internationally renowned entertainment presenter and former E!host Scott Tweedie.
