Australia’s Got Talent

After last week’s cheap and lacklustre performance show and Sunday’s Dancing with the Stars; can this be Seven’s saving grace for a revamp in their live production quality? We’ll find out soon!

No surprises, Grant pumps up last week that showcased acts that did worse than the auditions, causing a little disappointment.

We get a nice preview of this week before Grant walks on stage. The audience is definitely louder, but the sound is still really quiet and there’s no voiceover?! It’s still looking a bit cheap and the judges are already in their chairs. After last week’s explosive entrance, they would have been better just doing it again, it might make the show look more expensive and worth the 2 million viewers it gets.

Grant does a nice job however at compeering the show; at least a better job than Dan McPherson. Grant goes on to explain that due to the competition this year, they’ve changed the game a little and tonight; three acts will be moving on. The four most popular contestants will be revealed with the top two going through. The other two will fight it out for the judges vote to go through to the biggest grand final ever.

He then welcomes the nice looking trio of judges before revealing the top four acts from last week. They are Bree De Rome, Team Rocket, Fiona Mariah and of course, Jack Vidgen. Thank god Dash n D’Bree isn’t in; actually they are a good bunch in my opinion.

In a scene that is more reminiscent of a show of good quality (finally), the lights are dimmed and he reveals in no particular order, the two highest rated acts. They are after a long wait, Jack Vidgen and Bree De Rome. Nice pick, shame about Fiona but I reckon she’ll get through.

Both acts are thankful with Bree a little too shy for words.

Now it’s time for the judge’s vote and Brian goes with someone who he thinks will bring something special to the final and he votes for Team Rocket. Dannii votes next and congratulates all acts last week before saying Team Rocket will be going through.

Well what do you know; Fiona is out. She says she’s had a wonderful time, but she looks obviously upset.

Kyle would have gone Team Rocket as well, making it three out of three votes.

Well, that makes me happy; didn’t see that coming, a Seven reality show actually getting to the verdict without ONE ad break. Well done guys!

After the first ad break is KLD X-treme Air Force, a group of young cheerleading girls who have come close to becoming world champions.

In their bio, we find that one of the competitors broke he nose during the week before the act begins. I must say, it’s a lovely way to start of the show. Immediately we see these girls get into it with perfect timing and brilliant moves. It isn’t slow, it isn’t all over the place (considering the amount of people in this group, it’s a huge feat) and it’s entertaining. Definitely top quality entertainment right here.

When it ends, Grant is over ecstatic, before Dannii tells them it was just breathtaking. She says that the reason cheerleading isn’t as big in Australia as it is in the US because people aren’t as good as them.

Brian called it scary but a spectacular performance. Kyle is disappointed because there is nothing he can say is bad about the performance. He wanted them to come unstuck and come off the stage in carnage, a comment that makes me chuckle, but he wishes them well done.

After the break is TV highlight Hazel Phillips who as some commentators have said, shouldn’t be on a show like this. People begin television on reality television, not end it. Either way, she’s up now and she takes to the stage in all her glamour.

I’m not a fan for her singing voice, but I love her spirit and that stage set up. She has some nice moves but I don’t think this is going to get her through to the next stage.

Dannii tells her that she ‘hasn’t lost it at all’ calling her a mynx. She wants her back on television to which Hazel wishes she was. Kyle understands her rolls of fat hatred before Brian tells her he loves her, calling her kinky and the act as a whole, fabulous.

Next up is Dangerboy and Ivy, a group of sideshow nail sleepers. I actually didn’t see these guy’s in the auditions so it will be new to me. In a cutaway, they reveal how their nerves may cause an accident, however this is probably just for show.

It’s an interesting performance, complete with a set and a few noise effects. Ivy drops a nail into dangerboy’s glass before pouring wine into it. He drinks up before she takes out a plate of razors or dog tags and feeds them to him. Brian buzzes them out, squeamish at the act. This is quite disturbing. Ivy eats some string and the two kiss, before they reveal the dog tag/razors attached to the string.

Kyle tells them that the act is some sort talent before saying it made him sick. There’s an awkward silence before Brian expresses his nauseous. He tells them he didn’t like it and has nothing else to say about it. There’s awkwardness in the room before Dannii tells them that this is what the show is; causing a rapture of applause, finally. She tells them that the costumes are to die for.

Next up is Steve Romig, the guitarist/singer. I remember him from the auditions and I didn’t really mind this guy; I can’t wait to see what he performs tonight.

He sings ‘Silent Wonder’, an original; I like it!  The stage looks very medieval and that voice is magical. At the end of the day, he’s just another guitarist/singer bloke, but you kind of feel like you’ve heard the song before and it has a sort of familiarity to it and it makes it special and easy to listen to.

This song definitely belongs in a romantic flick or a Disney film, it sounds like a song all can enjoy. I absolutely loved this performance. And it’s a shame this performance just felt like it flew by. Please vote this guy through Australia, please.

Brian tells him it’s simple as this- amazing song and the only reason why he isn’t making it is because record company idiots didn’t take a risk. He and Dannii believe the performance is amazing. She calls the performance magical. Kyle loved him tonight; being a fan of his. It was fit for a Grammy’s performance.

Next up is Uprising, a heavy metal band whose actual band sings songs I like, but I don’t really like their vocals. Still, if they do well tonight, I’m sure I can swing my opinion a bit. Grant gives a bit of a shoutout/ ad to the local FoodWork’s in Mansfield before they begin to sing Check Yes Juliet.

For a live performance, it isn’t bad; I wouldn’t expect too much more from an actual seasoned band, but it certainly won’t win them the competition. I still wouldn’t want these guy’s to go through.

After the performance, Dannii calls them fantastic saying they have all the ingredients for a successful act. Kyle says they are full of energy and tells them that they are on the map now and will get bigger and better. Brian calls it a great performance telling the lead vocalist that he’s lifted his game. He says that with a nice original song, they could be the biggest band in the country.

Next up is a favourite of mine, Benchmark; a quartet of singing old men. They surprised in the auditions, so can they impress tonight? I hope so, they have great personality and humour as well as a good voice.

With a nice retro background; I definitely get into the mood. There are no nerves in this old bunch and they even get a few claps here and there. They prove that music needs no instruments. Perfect. I don’t know if these guys will win, but I hope they make it to the final.

Grant sure enjoyed it and we cross to Kyle. He calls it perfect and fun and the reason they are still alive. They mention they are getting attention from the ladies and Kyle makes a funny quip about Brian’s Westlife.

Brian says that after all the bands, fireworks, acts, they just come on stage with one microphone and it is electric. He calls them ‘simply, Australia’s Got Talent’

Dannii is next and three words- Bring Back Barbershop. No band, no track, absolutely mesmerising. Well put Dannii, exactly right!

I hope they go through! One of them is recovering from cancer; how powerful.

Next up is illusionist who wants to be the worlds best; we even get a backstage look that shows his act is legit. He is Cosentino and he looks to have an interesting act.

He’s all shackled up and faces a contraption involving a glass box holding water suspended with chains. He enters the box of water and has his final breaths before a cage that he’s shackled in locks him underwater. He now has to pick the locks and it is so hard to watch. He is lifted off the ground and he’s actually shaking. The music really helps with the suspense. He quickly unlocks everything on his body by the one minute mark and by 1.20, he works on the cage. I couldn’t hold my breath for that long but 15 minutes shy of 2 minutes, he is out to a rapturous applause and some fireworks to match. That was effing amazing. Even Brain goes to give him a high five. Man, I would be star struck if I ever saw that man.

You didn’t watch it- CATCH UP ON YOUTUBE. This guy actually blacked out in rehearsals and his mother hasn’t seen it in fear he won’t make it. Brian can’t comprehend what he’s just seen. After his amazing audition, this definitely beat it. ‘The world has just seen something amazing, and I’m just flabbergasted’.

Dannii- ‘Australia has never, ever had a performer like you, that was amazing, and the world stage is ready for you’.

Kyle’s comments are funny, even he freaked out in the end, saying he’s got a bit of a ‘gay vibe’ over how good his body is.

Now for the last act of the night; it’s 17 year old Chooka! I personally, can’t believe this guy is 17. Are you freaking kidding me! He looks 25 and plays like a seasoned player.

He flips out on stage and for someone from the bush, he plays well. He belts out the keyboard and despite the amazing performance; it isn’t anything new to what we saw in the auditions. He’s good, but compared to the other acts, I wouldn’t be sad to see him go. Still, if he became a star, I would be happy!

He gets a standing ovation and Dannii tells him he leaves her speechless. In England (where she DOESN’T come from, but as she’s a Minogue, she does?!?), they’d day ‘Flippin’ ‘eck’.

Kyle puts his talent down to the fact he isn’t sidetracked by facebook and television and all. He is impressed.

Brian however feels he could do this with a television and computer to sidetrack him and the fact he didn’t is amazing. He calls him a prodigy and a freak.

And with that, another night of brilliant acts is over. After a slow start with the production quality, I’m glad to say tonight’s acts were MUCH more entertaining than last week’s. Even better than Jack Vidgen; yes, I went there.

Coupled with production quality, lighting and effects that just got better as the show went along, I can safely say this episode bucks the trend that is Seven’s poor production standard. Overall, cannot wait for next week when we see who goes through and I can finally say, I know why people are hooked on this. Brilliant stuff and again, cannot get over the fact that the verdict was given without a single ad break!

Courtney’s Verdict: 9.5/10

Who are you most looking forward to seeing perform again?

Sorry for the late entry, guys. As it’s been a hectic weekend for me, this is the first time I’ve gotten time to write. So now, what a week it has been in reality television!

While a lot of things have happened on screen; a particularly interesting occurrence happened off screen. The ‘rumour’ that Big Brother may make a return is still ripe in our mind with differences of opinion on whether David Mott actually wants the show back or not.

Like it or loathe it; this won’t be the last time this rumour will occur; expect them to come in more frequently and with more certainty, and like it or loathe it also, but one of these days, this news won’t just be a ‘rumour’. Either way, I think we can all assume this news has passed and I would advise that anyone holding on for more news may have to wait a while.

So onto reality television that is ACTUALLY on air! First up, Dancing With the Stars. After only modest to poor scores being dealt to him over the season thus far, Mark ‘Occy’ Occhilupo hung ten and surfed his way out of the competition. That’s three out of three elimination in which a professional sports player, and therefore an athletic competitor, has left the game. In a way, I see it as a little bit of a reminder that this show isn’t just a popularity contest; but only just a little hint.

MasterChef has had its biggest week so far, and I’m not just talking about the ratings. After travelling to WA for the first part of this week, we were all treated to hours upon hours of breathtaking images, views and interesting challenges.

For the second half of the week, it was all about the quirky and different challenges back in the MasterChef kitchen. From having to cook with frozen & canned food to not cooking, but re-creating a Massaman Curry; the competition didn’t go in SA contestant Andrew’s favour as he was bitterly eliminated before slandering the judges, particularly Gary’s, manners. Tut, Tut, Tut.

The Amazing Race Australia was shortened to an hour episode (yay) however saw the elimination of Anne-Marie & Tracey, the beloved Big W ladies (nay). Considering it was either them or Mo & Mos (quickly becoming my favourite team), it was a catch 22 of sorts. Hopefully this won’t hinder the show’s ratings; I can’t see why it would.

The only other reality show was Australia’s Got Talent and as we move into Semi-Final season; the competition seems to be getting weaker and weaker. There were many performances that didn’t deliver, whether that be in my own opinion (Dash n D’Bree; Bree De Rome), the judges opinion (Fiona Mariah) or both (Rock n Roll Ropers).

But we can all be happy that the episode ended on a high note with 14 year old Jack Vidgen. Perfect voice.

This week sees the second batch of auditionees try out for a place in the final. We also find out which Semi Final 1 contestants will move on based on last weeks performance.

Tonight on Dancing With The Stars will showcase 8 spanking new performances and despite the cheapness of the show, will definitely drag me in to see who will suffer at the bottom of the leader board and which contestant will be sacrificed to create Australia’s top 7 dancing stars.

Now to MasterChef and what confuses me is that the Kuala Lumpur challenge is only showing on Friday by the look of it with two contestants going there for a private MasterClass. Is this all that MasterChef has to offer in terms of the big ‘Malaysian challenge’ they’ve been raving about? Surely not, however for the rest of the week, it looks like the contestants will be spending time in the MasterChef kitchen. We’ll find out soon enough.

Lastly, a new episode of The Amazing Race Australia and very quickly, the personalities on this show are creating buzz. I love it when reality shows do this. It’s refreshing to be able to pick up a mag or a newspaper and see editorials, opinions and stories on a show that isn’t related to its controversial nature or shocking new twists. The contestants on this show are real and entertaining. There’s not one pot plant group (well, maybe Luke and Jeff) nor are there contestants there simply for the fame (well, maybe the surfers or the models, but they were kinda already famous/socialites in their own right) and it makes the show so watchable.

For those not watching this show based simply on the types of contestants and controversies that were shown on Big Brother, Dancing with the Stars and sometimes MasterChef Australia; you needn’t worry. Watch it, it’s a completely fresh look at Australian’s in an experiment of sorts.

Rant over, and there’s my recap for the week. I will, as usual, be blogging each and every episode of each and every show so I hope you all join me!

Two young singers from Australia’s Got Talent and the British equivalent have been tipped as potentially the next Justin Biebers.

14-year-old Aussie Jack Vidgen and 12-year-old Brit Ronan Parke have both been tipped for success in their respective reality series with many comparing them to teenage superstar Justin Bieber.

Kyle Sandilands praised Vidgen after his performance of ‘And I’m telling You I’m Not Going’ from Dreamgirls, saying: “You’ve made me believe in reincarnation. You have a black woman inside you.”

Dannii Minogue echoed Sandilands compliments, describing his performance as “absolutely shockingly brilliant”.

Parke also received praise after advancing to the final of the British show this week from judge Simon Cowell who said his voice had more soul than Bieber.

Source: Herald Sun

The audition’s are over, the pickings are over, the ‘hunt’ is over and the judges holding 100% of the power in this game likewise, is over. It’s over to us in Semi Final 1 and I just can’t wait to begin!

A lovely recount on some of the stuff we’ve seen before and not a second too long. Grant is even nice enough to let us see who will be coming up tonight with talent including Jack Vidgen, Fiona Mariah and Team Rocket.

We begin the show in the live studio and the sound is still bad, two weeks in! It’s really quiet as Grant comes down the stairs. The screen behind him looks dirty and overall, it looks a little cheap. What is it with Seven and their live productions?

At least when Grant reveals the judges; it’s not all about how controversial they are. They actually get a rock star welcome complete with dramatic music; which I kind of like; takes that cheap edge away from the show a bit.

After telling us that it has all come down to us, Australia, to vote for our favourites, Grant banters with the judges. I must say, out of every talent show on television these days, this panel of judges are by far my favourite. Dannii just looks stunning, Brian is really laid back and Kyle, well, I love Kyle!

Apparently; Kyle was in the hallways earlier, picking out a fair few acts he though would fail however he is only joking even though acts stuffing up live is his favourite type of television.

Grant runs through some voting procedures; mentioning that the judges can still X the contestants out, before the game officially begins.

First up is my personal favourite, and has been for a while, Deep Blue. For those who don’t know, they are part band, part orchestra and turn pop music into orchestra and at their Gold Coast auditions, they turned the BEP’s single, Pump It, into their first sample of the competition.

After an interesting look at this versatile group, including Kyle’s opinion (don’t worry, nothing mean), the contestants begin their act.

Grant promises that some well known guitar riffs are played in this performance and invites us to identify them. Smoke on the Water is immediately identifiable but I’m not concentrating on that; I’m more into the performance itself and it is intense; complete with a hanging thing one contestant is on, a contestant performing with a violin on a pair of stilts and a bit of firework action.

Overall, they have taken their act to a new platform; still, I would have loved to see a modern pop song transformed rather than a couple of riffs.

To the judges and Brian says they are fresh, creative and incredible to watch. Their audition set a high bar and obviously past it tonight. Dannii questions whether they are miming because they were PERFECT. I don’t think anyone got that she was just joking about the miming bit which sounds a little cheap but Kyle, although liking the performance, believed that they could be better than what they performed, but can’t put his finger on what was missing. Brian tells them that they should have been wearing bikini’s (lol). Grant rounds up the performance with the numbers to vote with.

After the break; it is Matty Shields, the pole dancer that drew attention because he disappointed Kyle who was expecting a girl. During the profile, we realise that Matty broke a lot of stereotype’s doing what he was doing as not only was it a female domain (pole dancing) but it would be a first for the aboriginal community he came from.

He starts with his act which involves coming down the stairs with a spotty umbrella. He tries to spin it on the ground unsuccessfully before getting on his pole. He claimed to improvise in his audition, however if he’s improvising now, he’s doing a good job at it. There are a few brilliant moves in there and coupled with the mesmerising light effects matching the song choice (Defying Gravity), he truly is, defying gravity! After a while though, it does get a bit repetitive (it’s only spinning around a pole in different poses afterall) and could have been a little shorter but when it does end, we go to judges.

Dannii thought it was magical and superb; saying it was all HIM and all talent. He wasn’t as fluid as in the auditions, but she loved it. Kyle next, and as a pole dancing connoisseur; he believes that because he got the heart pumping and the ‘pole got some action’, he did really well.

Brian is still a little confused, what he is doing is brilliant but he finds it funny. He says that he is talented but if it’s a comedy act, he’s also funny. We now get the phone votes as Matty tries to escape (haha).

Back after the break; Grant reminds us that this show tries to find people who wouldn’t get a look in otherwise and enter; Fiona Mariah. She’s a brilliant busker/ opera singer who was on the verge of giving up her singing career. It’s a sad story and without tears, it seems to be a more powerful story. This is a powerful woman and I just hope she does well.

Tonight she is singing an opera classic; and my mind has gone so blank with this performance, I forget the title of this song. It is so beautiful and I have never learned the title of it. She does such a beautiful job. I can’t believe she can produce that voice with what looks like such little effort. My god is all I can say, my god!

It’s a pity the sound isn’t any better on this show; otherwise this could have been an amazingly perfect piece of television. To the judges and Kyle has been compared to Susan Boyle as well; referencing the fact that Fiona is being compared to the now infamous BGT star; before stating that he loved the song and wanted to do the ‘old pottery thing’ with Dannii (?!?). He does feel that without the standing ovation that was there in the room at the audition; he fears the audience didn’t like it as much however he loved it. Brian was blown away from the original performance in the audition (I actually didn’t catch it) and was a bit disappointed with tonight’s performance; saying that when she hits the good notes; he was over it.

Dannii agrees, saying that song choice is critical and that people like her and she needs to be able to make people ‘love’ opera. So not the best reaction by the judges, but I loved it and Kyle loved it and hopefully you guy’s give her a second chance! (I personally don’t vote)

Next up are the Rock n Roll Ropers who amazed with their choreographed skipping rope dance routine. We find out that they have been doing this for 10 years and are the most successful group in the world with their collective members winning an array of awards. Kyle still thinks it’s a bit girly; so they will need to be on their A game to impress him and the other judges.

It definitely takes a lot of energy for the group to skip with that large group rope, but not out of the ordinary to begin with. Some textbook moves here and there, but I’m not too impressed. It isn’t until the individual ropes come out that the intensity increases. Still, not a winner in my books. Good, but there’s not much else you can do with rope tricks.

To the judges and Brian thinks they did a good job but notices a few mistakes in the routine and is a bit concerned considering it is semi final time. Danni knows how tricky it is and appreciates the speed of the performance but they need to engage the audience more at the start (that was definitely missing). Kyle didn’t see the rehearsal and therefore didn’t see the mistake (he claims no one else did) and hopes that it wont affect the voting and thinks it was good but hated the acting and the laughing (haha, at least he’s honest; I agree though). He likes how the group is doing this then spending all day on facebook.

Next up is Dash & D’Bree, one of my most hated groups of the series so far. I don’t find them that funny and obviously their voices aren’t great. Will they become the Australian Jedward? If they do; they will be worse, and I so hope they don’t!

Still, I’m interested in what they will be doing; and it’s a song about drinking!

Together; their voices work; not in a singing way, but I can see the ‘talent’, they have great synchronisation. Either way, they just look like idiot’s. I do however tent to grow on reality television contestants that are a bit odd (MasterChef’s Kumar) and while I’m a little swayed by this performance (I actually love the ‘OMG Don’t Spew on me!’ line), I don’t think they should go through. I also love their ‘aim’.

Dannii says: ‘OMG I was spewin’ it was so ace!’. She believes their personalities are in their favour and will win them votes. Kyle looks very frowny who thinks their message about girls not drinking, it ruins it for guy’s like them but tells them without a show; they are nothing. Brian loves their characters as well and although he was worried about their song, but says it did it for him and puts it out there; Seven should give them a show. Umm… no! There’s also a comparison with Kath and Kim this group keep getting which I believe will work against them.

We return to the competition with Bree De Rome whose singing brought Kyle to near tears. The fact that this kid is only 17 is amazing; so I hope her performance does it for the audience. She’s singing Burt Bacharach tonight and to be honest, she opens a little soft; definitely wouldn’t appeal on Idol or X Factor. She has a great personality and her voice is still quite good but the performance does get better throughout. When it finishes; everyone but Kyle gives a standing ovation.

Kyle calls it a fabulous performance and believes it looks like they’ve pulled out a time capsule with her in it with her 60’s personality. Dannii says her performance is how it is meant to be done. I just realised her voice may have been compromised by the show’s sound problems.

Brian tells her that she took everyone in the room to another place and calls her incredible. He would buy and listen to her album on repeat and would attend her concerts. Breathtaking comments; best for the evening so far! Nice work, Bree.

Next up are Team Rocket; and on audience, they were definitely blasting off at the audition! Can they do it again? Kyle in the cutaway believes that they are too cute and talented for him to get into; but if he dropped her it would be funny. Loving Kyle’s humour; on par as always.

Unlike many acts tonight; this act is off and running from the word go! When I watched it; I couldn’t help but think this was So You Think You Can Dance, but the dancers were so much better. The judges haven’t been agreeing with me much tonight; so I wonder if they will like this?

Brian loved the performance and called them special; saying that watching them was like watching a movie as they were so good at delivering their storyline. He hopes they make it to the final. Dannii believes they are flying (excuse the pun) saying they have a lot of good elements. Kyle says they put a heap of dancing shows to shame and loved how they were able to sort out the boy’s cheating ways in 1 minutes (a reference to the storyline of their act) and wanted them to be at his side for his relationship troubles last year (with Tamara Jaber). Overall, he loved it.

Now it’s Jack Vidgen. I must apologise, in a previous post; I think I called him a ten year old. This wasn’t a jab; I actually thought he was ten; I thought that’s what they said. Anyway, he’s actually fourteen, and he’s taking the stage.

I love how that despite people refer to him as Justin Bieber; he dresses so classy and not as tryhard as that ‘pop-sensation’. His voice is amazing and compared to his speaking voice, he’s definitely a star! How he got that voice I have no freakin’ idea!

He was so good that even Kyle stood up to give a standing ovation! That RARELY happens!

Ladies and gentlemen, I believe we have found a winner! Dannii calls it absolutely, shockingly brilliant and calls it unbelievable to sit there and listen. She also likes how he has no ego or no attitude; calling him nice.

Kyle believed that when he heard someone in an LA Starbucks listening to him on a laptop, he knew he was a star. He has made Kyle believe in reincarnation as he has a black woman living inside him (hahahahahaha.)

Brian is amazed and will look back in a few years and think ‘I can’t believe he touched him and kissed him on the cheek’… a bit creepy Brian but either way, some brilliant comments and I reckon he’s done his parents proud.

After the break; we return for the voting recap! What?! We’re finished, no way; for an hour and a half episode; that felt very quick. I must say, it definitely was a brilliant episode full of amazing acts; even the one’s that didn’t get the best reviews were still good (except Dash n D’Bree and Rock n Roll Ropers who weren’t that good in my opinion).

A perfect episode let down by a cheap beginning and some really detrimental sound issues which I believe severely affected the quality of Bree De Rome’s performance which was apparently brilliant (pity it only sounded good on my end).

However, I am craving next Tuesday’s episode (yes that’s right, no episode tomorrow) and wonder how those acts could possibly do any better!

Courtney’s Verdict: 8.0/10

Phew; what a week it has been! We start off the week with the (bitter) elimination of Jan Stephenson from Dancing With The Stars and you just know it will be an interesting week to come.

In fact; as it is, the less controversial Dancing With The Stars, although working the treat with me, did nothing for its performance, shedding a big share of its audience week on week. It would seem this show has moved on from being about the dancing; and is now just here for the controversies. Still; it was a nice episode of dancing and having fun, so I’ll lap it up while it lasts.

The Amazing Race Australia saw its first elimination; the wierdnamers, as I’ve been calling them, Ryot and Liberty ran last across the pit stop line and will go down with that unfortunate title of first ever Australian eliminated team.

On MasterChef; the emotions went from one strength to another. After Chelsea’s teary goodbye on Monday, the contestants were saved from having three extra contestants with immunity pins on their chest as Sun, Peter and Billy lost the immunity challenge.

The extraordinarily fun and exciting Cronulla Beach team challenge on Wednesday was partly overshadowed by probably the most controversial exit from the show all year as Cleo’s accidental mistake of cooking Ganache before completing her toffee (for this challenge; this was cheating) meant that only half her dish was tasted and despite being a hot favourite in the kitchen, she didn’t have what it took to survive; and she was given a saddening goodbye.

Australia’s Got Talent is finally getting somewhere as well as the auditions signed off for another year on Tuesday and the judges picked 2011’s semi-finalists on Wednesday (although a huge chunk of the audience were more interested in the State of Origin, so they might not have known who these people are).

That brings us to this week as Australia’s Got Talent’s semi-finalists sing for the first time for our votes. While a big question is, who will have what it takes to move on, another thing people are asking is will Jordan Paris be allowed to continue on despite plagiarising some performers? I hope so!

Another episode, another destination on The Amazing Race Australia as teams head to Hong Kong, China; another destination that is culturally diverse and rich with challenging possibilities.

On MasterChef, the contestants are flying out as well, but not as far. Bring on WA week as contestants travel to exotic locations in the Western State including the famous Busselton Jetty. There’s a lot of hype in this; can it deliver? It will be a huge test in its production values.

Lastly, we arrive at Dancing With The Stars. Not much to stay here; 9 dancers, 1 elimination, who will go tonight? Brynne? Occy? Lara? Possible Haley or Manu? Dan? Who knows; all I know is that whatever the verdict, we can be pretty sure it won’t be based on the dancing!

So that’s the outlook; we’re getting into the bulky parts of most shows with some programs just firing up. It makes for an exciting week ahead in reality TVLand!

Below is a list for all reality programs coded for the week 22-27 May 2011. This post is not meant to be a comparison, but just a round up of how your favourite show fared.

2 Australia’s Got Talent-Tue Seven 1,833,000
4 Masterchef Australia Mon Ten 1,514,000
6 Masterchef Australia Sun Ten 1,469,000
8 Masterchef Australia Thurs Ten 1,465,000
9 Dancing With The Stars Seven 1,451,000
12 Masterchef Australia Tues Ten 1,296,000
15 Australia’s Got Talent-Wed Seven 1,286,000
17 Masterchef Australia Wed Ten 1,236,000
21 The Amazing Race Australia Seven 1,144,000
32 Masterchef Australia – Masterclass Ten 921,000

The numbers to the left of the episode titles corresponds to that particular show’s position for the week.

As we can see, Wednesday’s edition of MasterChef Australia and Australia’s Got Talent are down quite severely from last week (MasterChef down 173,000; the weeks largest week on week drop; Australia’s Got Talent down 119,000) and the only episodes that gained an audience was Tuesday’s Australia’s Got Talent which rose by 44,000 viewers and the week’s biggest week on week gainer, MasterChef Australia- Sunday which rose by 60,000 viewers.

Dancing with the Stars shed 162,000 viewers from last week with The Amazing Race: Australia dropping a sizeable 114,000 viewers.

MasterChef was down across the week with Thursday’s episode the least affected; only 44,000 off on last week. 57,000 fled Monday’s episode while the MasterClass episode didn’t impress 67,000 enough to return this week. Tuesday’s episode was also down with 79,000 viewers deciding to give it a miss.

The State of Origin is on again this week; will the drop be larger? Will Dancing with the Stars fall further, and what is in store for The Amazing Race Australia; will it ‘J Curve’ its butt to a higher number? And how high can Australia’s Got Talent go?

All important question; an all important week of reality ahead!

Plagiarism claims have struck Australia’s Got Talent contestant Jordan Paris.

The 22-year-old comic, who appeared on the Channel 7 series on Tuesday night, has been accused of taking jokes from another comedian.

Paris impressed judges Kyle Sandilands, Dannii Minogue and Brian McFadden who gave him a unanimous yes verdict.

However, the gig was performed almost word for word four years ago by English comedian Lee Mack.

Paris denied ripping off Mack but did say that he had heard of him.

“Comedy’s a funny thing,” he said.

“Obviously there are a lot of people doing a lot of things, but a joke’s a joke.

“If it’s making people laugh then I’m happy.”

Comparison of both jokes: 

Jordan Paris, Australia’s Got Talent, May 2011

”A few years ago I went and saw Robbie Williams … what I noticed is, Robbie only sings like half a song. (Sings) ‘Come on Australia you know this one,’ (points microphone to audience). I was like ‘Yeah we do Robbie, it was 150 bucks to get in mate, any chance you could sing it for us?’ That’s like me getting up here going ‘Oh gee, a funny thing happened to me on the way here tonight guys. Come on I think you know this one…’ (points microphone to audience).”

Lee Mack, Live at the Apollo, December 2007

”Can someone tell Robbie Williams that this doesn’t constitute entertainment: ‘Come on Glastonbury you know this one,’ (points microphone to audience). ‘Yeah we know it Robbie, it was 150 quid to get in, any chance you could sing it for us?’ I couldn’t get away with that could I, I couldn’t come on here and go ‘Hey, a funny thing happened to me on the way here tonight, come on you know this one…’ (points microphone at audience).

Source: Goldcoast.com.au, BrisbaneTimes

Chop, chop, chop! It’s a familiar word associated with MasterChef, but with so many acts wanting to move further in this year’s Australia’s Got Talent; the word ‘chop’ is going to find a home on Seven for the next hour at least as the contestants try to work their way to the grand prize of $250,000; with some moving on, and some receiving the chop!

So off the back of tonight’s episode, the pesky sound issue returns and it seems to be worse tonight! Anyway, moving on, we may as well get used to it. The titles roll and we are given a pan shot of the 200 acts who have successfully auditioned for this year’s show. The show dramatises the entire scene with tense music, voiceovers of Grant constantly telling us how hectic this contest is and reminds us of the big choices the judges will have to make.

The judges enter the, well I call it the judging room. It’s a simple looking room with the names of the 200 acts and a screenshot of them, littering the walls. The task at hand; culling this group from 200 acts, to 48. We are given a taste on how the judges make their choice; their thought processes, their discussions, their arguments. It’s quite an enticing piece showing us what’s to come; but probably best suited for a sneak peak.

Wait, they’ve made their choices? Oh, I get it; that wasn’t a sneak peak; I just assumed this show was going to draw out the judge’s private verdict for an entire episode! Well thank god for that. We can skip right to the culling. I love it!

So first up is the ‘bandid rapper’ named Matt White. He’s very nice to his mother considering what he’s put her through when he was younger. I remember this act; his mother acted as a third judge on Kyle’s behalf. I loved how she kept her handbag around her arm during her standing ovation. He walks the mile and Brian asks if the fame would affect him negatively considering his troubled past. He says it wouldn’t and the judges put him through. He’s emotional and gives his mum a kiss. That was definitely a spine tingling moment. He looks like a bit of a weirdo though; but good for him.

After the first ad break, we are given a recap of the judge’s time in the judging room. While that occurs, Grant goes around and in an attempt to fill the timeslot; he interviews some of the waiting acts. We then move on to recap David de Vito’s performance (he’s the opera guy with the father in early dementia), Steve Romig, the guitarist from last episode and Stuart Biggins who put his life on hold when his wife got dementia. And guess what; they all go in to the verdict room together. Kyle reminds them why they are here; they all have amazing life stories but are missing something. David says it is the courage. Steve believes it was a false sense of security his songs and tunes gave him and Stuart believes he has been in the wrong places at the wrong times.

Brian tells them that they must narrow the 200 acts to 48 but thankfully, all three are through. They look like three goofs but you just feel stoked that they are through; they definitely deserve it.

With a recap from Grant, looking at the more interesting and weird groups in the auditions, we look at a montage from the verdict room showing these sorts of acts becoming the target of that dreaded chop.

One group not targets are the dance crews; and a huge chunk of them are getting through. I don’t blame the judges; these guys just captivate the audience; some of the moves these groups have are just extraordinary.

Next up is So You Think You Can Dance’s Timomatic; who impressed the judges with a singing, dancing duo. Can he be more successful in this show than he was in Dance? He will be going up against that boy band ‘gang’ Capree; who also sang as well as dance.

Brian reveals that when looking back at Capree’s singing, they weren’t as good as what they thought in the room but with Timomatic; they believe he’s had his opportunity on stage. Even still; the two acts go through to the next round.

Next up is Hazel Phillips who is practically a seasoned Australian actress that has lost the limelight in the past decades. But can she get through for another chance? Yes she can but unfortunately, her son who auditioned with her did not. Sad split, but not as sad as Hazel having to audition for this show in the first place.

Next up for judgement is Jack Vidgen, a Justin Bieber look alike. He’s ten, but will it be ten out of ten for Jack? Guess what; he’s through! It was this shows worst kept secret!

Next up is Cosentino, a really good magician, fantastic. The judges ask him what he will bring to the table and after his very well spoken answer; he’s through! He is the first of many circus, variety groups to make it through, as we see from another montage.

Rod Collins is next, he’s the harmonica playing cowboy from last night! He will be entering the judgement room with Harmonica Ray, also from last night and also, of course, playing the harmonica. Kyle wants them to give the judges a 30 second piece with their harmonica to determine who goes through. It seems as though Rod Collins wins that challenge; and the judges think so too; Harmonica Ray is cut.

They next four acts include Dash and D’Bree; those pop singers who try to promote safe sex through their songs, Ben Price, a mimic, Jordan Paris; a comedian from last night and Rod Gregory, that old comedian from last week. Are they going in all together? Oh yes they are, but will they all get through? Kyle reveals that only three of the four will go through; and it will be one choice per judge. Kyle chooses Jordan Paris. Nice choice; but Brian chooses Dash and D’Bree, a choice I don’t agree with. Unfortunately, as Dannii reveals that she has chosen impersonator Ben Price, Rod Gregory, a man with two autistic grandchildren (or children? Can’t remember), seems to be going home. Kyle reveals they loved him; so he will also be going through. Bloody judges!

We return from a break; Grant retells us for the hundredth time that only 48 will go through. Ok, we get it!

A montage of larger group acts go through and up next is the Misfits, whose act couldn’t even be shown. But there’s a story to go with today’s judgement; since the performance, one of the duo dropped out; so another guy who got fired from his job to be the replacement. Luckily, the due do actually get through. The judges do call it a risk though.

Next up is Super Italia, that weirdo from last night and rhythm dancer Ariel De Los Reyes; who are described as ‘different’ acts. After another hilarious demo from Super Italia; both jokes, I mean acts, are cut.

Next up are singer Thomas Crane, Brian McFadden fan Dave Crocker and singer (but definitely no speaker) Pete the Kalbar Rockstar. These acts are all ‘different’, but definitely have talent (unlike Super Italia).

After a funny line from Pete, Thomas Crane is through, Dave Crocker is out and Pete is… through! So there you go; two out of three aint bad!

Grant reminds us that with all the good acts this year; good may not be good enough. So now we are shown some of the more ‘pronouncedly’ talented person. First is ‘Chooka’ Parker; a very talented pianist and farmer whose audition was his first performance. Brian tells him that he is a standout potential winner, a statement that makes him visibly moved. He is through to the next round!

As told by Grant; we are into the final hours of Judgement Day. We are treated to a nice montage of some of the more talented singers. Four of these singers go into the verdict room. Four of these singers, go through! For a second; Brian made it seem like two were going home. Irish bastard.

Next up is Kai Baldwin, an 8 year old tap dancer. Throughout the verdict, may I point out that there was a small instrumental piece playing in the background from Delta Goodrem… thought I’d point that out.

So on the day of Kai’s audition, Kyle, who hates kid tap dancers, was absent. It is now time for Kai to show Kyle what he is made of and does so on the desk in front of Kyle’s face. Hilarious; to say the least. Kyle seem impressed. Brain and Dannii gives the kid another yes and Kyle tells him he can go through.

So after we see some singers and dancers; it is time for the contortionists. Despite Brian’s hate for them, both major contortionists of the group go through. Now for two acts who the judges couldn’t decide before; two acrobatic groups Majestic and Belair (I don’t really know how to spell it). The judges ask the teams what it would mean to go through. After some convincing answers; both teams are going through.

We revisit now the pole dancing shock Kyle got when the pole dancer turned out to be male Matty Shields. He isn’t at the verdict due to illness but he makes it through anyway.

Up next is Fiona Mariah; who busks to support a family. She has an absolutely fabulous opera voice and I would be deeply shocked if she didn’t get through. Clara Helms, the non-toad like opera singer from last night will be judged alongside Fiona. It is time. Dannii asks if they can support classical singers in the competitions (umm, yes… remember Mark Vincent? You’re the only judge on the panel who was involved in that season…). Luckily, the answer is YES to both of them and they are through to the semi-finals.

The day is coming to a close; only a handful of acts are left. Next up is Liam Burrows; a student/busker at only 17 years of age. He will be going up against that old men barbershop quartet in the verdict room. Is there possibly room for both of them in the semi-finals?

Well Benchmark gives a demo that kind of shocks Liam. Liam gives his piece and to me it sounds as if he was a little shocked, affecting his voice. Doesn’t matter; both groups are THROUGH!

Next are the rock bands. Oh god, tune out, tune out. The three acts are Uprising, the Replicators, and another group I didn’t quite catch the name of. Doesn’t matter because despite the fact I don’t like any of them, I’ll get to see their names more now that they are all THROUGH.

Last up is the final auditionee, Wayne Rodgers; the singer who is known for her (his), dress style.

He’s eccentric; I wonder if Kyle, who wasn’t at his audition, will like him?

Kyle asks how he (she) got on the show. It’s because she (he) had a great voice! And guess what; he’s through! Or she’s through. Not before a transphobic comment from Kyle. He (she) is very emotional. How nice.

And that is it; it’s all up to us! Yay; pity I don’t vote on these shows. So this episode was your garden variety green mile style show; it featured many montage of the clips from the auditions we loved best and showed the judges hold those contestants in suspense for as long as possible (sometimes I can tell when the contestant was going through; but tonight, there were times when I was shocked that the judges finally said yes! Very creative ways of hiding their verdict, these judges).

The best thing about this episode is that either that sound problem went away half way through; or I just forgot about it. I loved how this episode concentrated on the acts that got through. All too often do we have to trawl through heaps of long winded verdicts just to be told that an act, who is one of my favourites or one of your favourites isn’t going through. In this case, it was a lovely tone and a nice sneak peak into what we as a country, have to vote for.

Courtney’s Verdict: 8.5/10 

Channel Seven has pretty much enticed the entire country to this show with a lovely looking sneak peak that has played constantly throughout the week. So for its final auditions in 2011, will we be, as they say, shocked and surprised?

After a quick recap of what we have seen and what is about to unfold, the titles role, and we begin the show. And the show starts with yet another recap. Yes, a recap after a recap! A great start, Australia’s Got Talent!

Now is it just me, or is the sound weird? It’s as if the sound is coming out of one speaker in my television; and there’s nothing wrong with my television. After the technical glitches on Dancing With The Stars the other night; I hope for Seven’s sake it isn’t their fault. Either way, the picture is fine and on that picture comes a weird European dance act called ‘Roztiazhka’ to start off the night. If they make it through, I will refer to them only as Rozti!

They get the crowd clapping and it seems the group is made up of three smaller groups, all doing their own little thing. It’s very entertaining I must say; even Dannii lets out a ‘yeow’! When they finish; they get a standing ovation and Kyle tells them he would love to see them again. He gives them a yes. Brian says they make it look easy and Dannii loved it. Three yeses and Rozti is through.

Next up, another European act; a musical piece using a piano and I think it’s a xylophone. They are called Anastassia Korolev (there are two people in this act; I guess Anastassia is the name of the female). They are a talented duo and they work fast to create a lovely beat. They get a much larger standing ovation and I just realise the girl is only 12! Wow, she was great and deserves to go through. The judges all love her and all say yes! Anastassia is through.

Next Is Jean-Luc who is a creepy looking magician who asks Kyle to come up as an assistant. I don’t exactly know what he is doing, but it is funny and he is through.

Next is Jordan Paris who is a stand up comedian. His opening joke is quite funny and simple. He’s also an OK singer. He sure entertains the crowd. Dannii says he did the Gold Coast (where he’s from) proud while Kyle said he is nearly perfect, only if his teeth could be shaven down (he has chompers). He gets three yeses and is through. Nice work, Jordan!

We’re shown a ‘Charlie Chaplin’ style move is someone named Clara Cupcakes before we see her perform. She’s a little loopy but she has a few nice tricks with hula-hoops and even does the splits at the end.

Dannii gives her a yes, as do Kyle and Brian. Clara Cupcakes and her hula’s are through.

Next are BBB Beatles (which doesn’t do so well). The next act just walks off stage and then it’s time for Doble Kara who doesn’t attract the audience with his half man half woman face singing trick which has been seen on a Got Talent show before (not in Australia though). His singing sucks and the judges all give him an X.

There are a few more circus-inspired acts before contortionist Beau Sargent comes on stage to Brian’s cringe (he doesn’t like contortionists). His moves are almost impossible with Kyle and Dannii just watching on in awe. At one point he creepily wraps his body around 360 and just stares at Dannii. Seriously, this guy is messed up, but not in a bad way. Brian gives him an X and tells him he hated it and it makes him feel sick. He gives him a yes because he is talented and Dannii believes he is an absolute star. Kyle gives him a yes purely because he makes Brian gag and tells him that if he were a girl, they’d be dating! Too far, Kyle. Too far!

Anyway, he gets three yeses and is through.

The next act looks just weird. From the interview with Denyer, I can tell they will be booed. No question about it. Their name is Futurelic and their act looks like something out of Sci-Fi. I have no idea what it is. Neither do the audience. Nor the judges. There is some crazy sounds as the person that came out of this weird contraption goes back in. They then just randomly leave the stage.
The judges don’t know what just happened and they explain they were re-enacting an Alien Ressurection. But as Brian points out, there’s never been an alien so how can they resurrect them. They create their own, apparently. They are just plain weird and get X’s from Dannii and Brian. Kyle tells them modestly that their message was lost in translation before wearing this ridiculous mask of an alien. That man has some issues.

Next is performer Clara Helms with a bit of opera. Kyle loves it because she is nice looking and not a toad as many opera singers. Dannii and Brian also gives her a yes before Guitarist Steve Romig comes on stage. He gets three yeses as well and is through.

As Grant claims yet again that the show has found the ‘best voices’ this year before quartet group, Benchmark takes the stage. Despite their age, they surprise Kyle by telling him they have only been singing for 3 years. They also give Brian some flack by claiming to be a ‘man band’ and not a ‘boy band’. For those wondering, Brian was in fact apart of a boy band some time ago. Kyle likes the joke. They are quite good and produce some great tunes. They make Dannii ‘wow’ before the crowd start clapping along. Kyle believes it must be a penny dropper for the ladies back at the old folk’s home (lol) before telling them he loved it. Brian says they are the best Barbershop Quartet he has ever said before Dannii tells them they had everyone in the palm of their hand from the word go. No surprises, three yeses!

Next; a Jackass style intro for an act so controversial; Seven can’t show much of it at all. All it is is a jackass style group called the Misfits. They are from Adelaide. Not sure about the other two judges; but Kyle gives it a yes. Grant tells us that they are in fact through to the next round.

Next is a xylophone playing band that drives Dannii and Brian slightly insane; although the hot factor of the girls makes Kyle love it. Look, there it is, more sound troubles!

Next is the Big Bang, a drum playing group that wow the audience, but Brian doesn’t like it as it wasn’t a good structure. Dannii comments that she got the structure and so did the audience. Harmonica Ray is next who plays, well, the harmonica. He promises a slightly apprehensive judging panel that he will spice it up if he gets through to the next round. Kyle immediately gives it a yes while Brian tells him that he has talent and also gives him a yes. I believe Dannii gives him a no.

A returning contestant comes back now and he’s harmonica player Rod Collins. He’s also a singer and a tap dancer. I see his talent; but he’s pretty average in my opinion; no, I don’t really like him. Kyle says that if someone asked him to see that; he wouldn’t go. But here he is, and he loved it. There are a few more sound troubles in this comment session as Brian and Dannii also gives him a yes. Wow, those sound troubles are really annoying me.

So he’s through; and I can’t say I’m too happy about that!

So after a quick add; we are treated to a dance act featuring a guy and a girl. They are quite good; but for me, dance acts are either incredible or not worth a look in. There were a few good points; no doubt they will get through; but I wouldn’t want them to win. They did go through and team rocket are through.

Next is a sob story contestant, which isn’t such a bad thing but these sound issues aren’t helping with the effect. His name is Dan Conway and he’s singing an original song with his friends. He’s a good singer; very talented. For an original song, he’s doing well. I just saw the judging panel, and Kyle is missing again. But back to the song and he’s just doing so well. I’d buy it; oh, but wait; the judges have just X’ed him! They tell him to pack his bags and go…into the next round! No comments, no yeses, just a pass through; he is that good.

Now for the last auditions for 2011; and first is Dash and D’Bree, an interesting rap duo of girls, who seem to convey safe sex through pop music. Creative; but a little annoying and their singing is left to be desired. They also have the most annoying personalities of the competition however the judges give them all a ‘yes’ for their ‘lovely’ message and humour.

Next up is a returning contestant who last year performed some sort of testosterone-filled monologue, but this year is performing martial arts. His name is Super Italia. What then proceeds is this contestant having a very dangerous looking seizure. It’s totally hilarious, but I agreed with the judges, who all X’ed him. Brian gives him a yes, Dannii a no and Kyle…. Well, if Super Italia can kick the mic above his head, he is in. He does so, and therefore moves on to the next stage of the competition. This guy is a goof; I don’t know if I am happy or sad of his admittance. It’s just a bit of fun though.

So the last act for the year comes on, he (or she?!?) calls him (her?!?) self Wayne Rodgers and performs a song. He (she) can sing. Maybe not the best singer in the competition, but I think the weird factor might put him (her) through. When he (she) finishes, he (she) gets a standing audition. Brian commends his voice and is shocked to know he (she) is 52. Dannii feels weird calling him (her) Wayne. He doesn’t want people to think he is a drag queen; and although he clearly is, he doesn’t want people to know him as a drag act. Dannii and Kyle give him a yes, and he becomes the last person to go through for 2011. Well, the last WE saw go through anyway.

With this episode; the auditions stage for Australia’s Got Talent 2011, and with all the hype surrounding this episode; I can’t say I was too amused. There were definitely some good acts, but it was an episode I could have afforded to miss. No YouTube recommendation worthy contestants, and I can’t say I agree with some of the judges choice. But for a show that will accept almost anyone; this is expected. Another thing that brought this episode down was their sound problems. A few problems were occurring during Dancing With The Stars, but they were just a few small camera glitches. What was occurring in this episode was just a total mess in the sound department. It sounded really unprofessional and just brings Seven’s reality show credibility down even further. I was very unimpressed and expect better in tomorrow’s episode. I do expect shows to get it wrong sometimes; but this was happening all episode after glitches occurred on Dancing last Sunday. So other than that; some contestants were good and I’m eagerly awaiting tomorrow to see how some of them fare in the semi-finals.

Courtney’s Verdict: 7.0/10