He chose a career in teaching over the chance to win a record deal, but it seems former Australian Idol contestant Toby Moulton is more than happy with his decision.
His sudden departure from the show on Sunday night left fans, his fellow contestants, and judges Marcia Hines, Ian “Dicko” Dickson and new judge Jay Dee Springbett gobsmacked when he announced that he would rather teach than be a professional musician.
“After many, many hours of soul-searching and many sleepless nights, I have decided to withdraw from the competition tonight,” he said on air on Sunday.
“I have come to a point where I have realised that at this stage I do not want a career in music and these four people do.”
But he said the decision wasn’t an easy one to make. The much-loved contestant said it had taken a lot of “soul-searching” to get to this point and that his fans were the “biggest consideration” in making his decision.
“I will miss the smiles, ‘hellos’ and beautiful messages you have blessed me with,” he said.
“I know that many of you have invested many hours and money on me, all I can say is I’m very sorry if I’ve let you down.”