Australian music icon Marcia Hines has made a triumphant return to the judging panel of Australian Idol this year, continuing her remarkable journey of mentoring aspiring singers after an illustrious five-decade career at the pinnacle of the entertainment industry.
A Seasoned Mentor Joins the Panel
Once again seated alongside fellow judges Kyle Sandilands and Amy Shark, Hines brings her wealth of experience to help shape the careers of a new generation of vocal talents. Despite having guided countless artists to success over the years, the celebrated performer openly admits that performance anxiety never completely disappears.
"On the show we are very much a team and support each other," Hines revealed in a recent interview. "But when I'm performing as an artist, I still get very nervous because I know all the things that could go wrong. I want it to be as good as possible because it's an experience for my audience."
The Heart of Australian Idol
When questioned about what she cherishes most about her judging role on Idol, Hines emphasized the importance of providing young performers with a platform to showcase their abilities. "It's an avenue for the kids," she explained. "Back in the day, we had Hey Hey It's Saturday, The Bert Newton show or The Don Lane show. We don't have those shows anymore. So, this is a great way to show your wares."
The pop legend is particularly focused on identifying genuine talent with the right attitude. She clarified that she looks for confidence rather than arrogance in contestants, valuing authenticity above all else.
Five Decades of Wisdom
Drawing from her extensive experience in the entertainment world, Hines offers one crucial piece of guidance to this year's competitors: "To thine own self be true." She elaborated, "I've said that to the kids sometimes on Idol. Whatever you do, don't act — just be yourself, always, and I get that. I still get that from my manager. He always says, 'Just be yourself'."
She further stressed the significance of aspiring artists demonstrating their genuine emotions and passion. According to Hines, it's essential for performers to show their heart through their music and stage presence.
Surprising Depth of Talent
The new season of Australian Idol has been described by Sandilands as "bigger, louder and wilder than ever," but for Hines, the most remarkable aspect remains the exceptional quality of contestants. "We wonder each year have we drained the talent pool? But the answer is hell no," she declared enthusiastically.
While acknowledging that the competition can be overwhelming for some young participants, Hines highlighted the invaluable exposure the program provides. "Whether you win or not, learn from it and take it into your life," she advised, emphasizing the long-term benefits of the Idol experience.
Managing Performance Nerves
Despite her position on the judging panel and decades of professional experience, Hines confessed that performing still triggers nervousness. In those anxious moments, she finds that attempting to find quiet helps to calm her nerves and center herself before taking the stage.
Life Beyond the Spotlight
Away from the glare of television cameras, Hines enjoys simple pleasures during her rare days off. She spends quality time with her pets, indulges in shopping excursions, and keeps up with current events by watching the news.
Recently, she has discovered creative passions in sewing and making mosaics. "It's a wonderful art form, very messy but very fun," Hines said of her artistic pursuits, which provide a satisfying creative outlet outside her music career.
When asked what advice she would give to her younger self, Hines responded with characteristic humor: "She wouldn't listen to me." She added thoughtfully, "But that's the great thing about life, you learn as you go."
The new season of Australian Idol commences on Monday, February 2, airing on the Seven Network and available for streaming on 7plus.
