Not So Idle!

Idol's fame on screen

FORMER Australian Idol crooner Anthony Callea will return to the small screen, confirming to this columnist that he has joined the cast of Foxtel's Ultimate School Musical: Fame.

Callea, who was runner-up to Casey Donovan on Idol in 2004, is filming the series alongside Ruby Rose and others in Melbourne.

USM: Fame features school children attempting to put on a professional musical in just six weeks. Callea is the series' voice coach.

"It's a really positive show in giving these kids an amazing opportunity, one they wouldn't otherwise have," Callea said.

"It's a bit of responsibility for me, being the vocal coach, and I enjoy that."

Callea will soon tour with Whitney Houston and will release a new album mid-year. He said he was saddened by the alleged axing of Idol.

"It was just such a great platform. A & R guys aren't out scouring for new talent in pubs and clubs these days, so it was just a massive leg-up.

"It also means I have to find a new show, as Idol used to mean friends over and a bottle of wine open at mine every Sunday."

Fame is expected to launch in April on Fox8.