Mark Holden Quits Idol

by lkatulka on March 5th, 2008

Australian Idol judge Mark Holden won’t return to the popular reality TV show next year.

The reason for the move depends on who you believe. Some news stories claim Mark left of his own accord, citing a desire to focus on his acting career. Others say he was pushed by Channel Ten who were desperate to breathe some fresh life into the talent quest.

I’m not really sure what to think. Sure his gibberish rambles were cringeworthy and touchdowns were a fairly biased false currency, but I’m certainly going to miss Mark. He knew what he was talking about, and I think he deserves a lot of credit for taking Idol from a karaoke show to something much more.

There’s no word on a replacement, so it’s unclear whether Ten will revert to their previous three-judge format or bring on some new blood. Personally I’d love to see a straight shooting industry veteran like Renee Geyer or Chrissy Amphlett step into the role. Now that’d make for interesting TV!

Image source: Mark Holden press kit