Australian Idol returns next Monday, and for Scott Tweedie, the upcoming season marks his fourth time hosting the series.
After three successful years fronting the show alongside Ricki-Lee, Tweedie says the role has only become easier and a lot more fun.
“Now we know exactly what we’re doing, but in saying that, the very first season felt like a walk in the park because we have the easiest part of the whole show,” he tells WHO.
That role, he explains, is all about support and atmosphere. It’s the judges: Amy Shark, Marcia Hines, and Kyle Sandilands, who have a much tougher gig, according to the presenter.
What did Scott Tweedie say about the Australian Idol hosts?
While the judges’ panel remains iconic, Tweedie says their dynamics have evolved over time, particularly when it comes to Amy Shark.
“I think Amy is getting more and more confident every season,” he tells us. “Almost becoming the bad cop,” he quips.
That confidence, Tweedie explains, comes from her experience in the demanding industry.
“She knows how tough it is,” he says. “So she’s just like, guys, it’s hard. Like, you’ve got to be better. You’ve got to be better. This is a tough industry.”
As Amy steps into the tougher role, Kyle Sandilands has softened- something Tweedie attributes to life changes.
“Kyle’s now a dad and I think all dads have a soft spot,” he says. When it comes to delivering difficult feedback, Tweedie says Marcia Hines sets the standard.
“I believe Marsha delivers bad news the best,” he says. “She’s just giving straightforward wisdom, but then also giving them hope on what to do once they receive that bad news.”
Does Scott Tweedie stay in touch with contestants?
Off camera, Tweedie says the bonds formed between the hosts and contestants run deep.
“As time goes on, we spend months with these guys, so they’re like our friends, they’re like our family,” he reveals. “Anywhere we can support them, we can, including if they go touring after the show.”
What Scott Tweedie thinks of Australian talent
Splitting his time between Australia and the US, Tweedie says the country’s influence on the global music scene continues to amaze him.
“I’m blown away at just how many incredible musicians globally are recognised that are Australian compared to our population,” he says.
Hosting Idol, he adds, reinforces that pride every season. “We usually kick off every season going, surely not, like, they can’t be and there always is these amazing singers again.”
What is the hardest part of filming Australian Idol for Scott Tweedie?
For Scott, the best part and the toughest part are one and the same- the noise of the live audience.
“The energy in the theatre, 1,300 people, the seats go all the way back and the noise, they scream so loud sometimes we can’t hear our producers and directors in our ears,” he laughs. “Which is a great problem to have.”
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