SA Idols winner splits cash with runner up

  1. Posted on Friday 5 November 2010 - 11:48
    Mtheto Lungu
    Image of Mtheto Lungu
    Mtheto Lungu, AfricaNews reporter in Lilongwe, Malawi
    "Things My Father Said" singer, Idol's winner, Elvis Blue shocked the audience when he announced he is splitting the R500, 000 cash first position prize with his runner up, L'loyd Cele.
    South Africa Idols winner splits bounty with runner up
    The newest South Africa Idol, beat his best friend Cele in a closely contested competition to come first, but said the two had agreed whoever won would split the accolade in half.

    Blue walked away with a brand new Ford Figo, a recording contract with Universal Record, R50, 000 musical instruments, and a R20, 000 clothing voucher. His debut single, which is available for downloads, has also been released.

    Times Live reported the audience was caught by surprise when Blue decided to split his prize money into half - much to the appreciation of the audience.

    "I agreed with L'loyd if either of us wins we will split the money in half. He'd have done the same for me. This guy is like my best friend," he said.

    Before the announcement, Blue and Cele's wives, Chireze Hoogendyk and Janice, were holding onto each other for support.

    Blue was overwhelmed by the showers of praise, tears of joy streamed down his cheeks as he serenaded his fans through song.

    "This is for everyone who voted for me. This is for you. I love you."

    Originally from Linden in Johannesburg, was noticed when he sang Bob Dylan's "To Make You Feel My Love", which had Mara in tears at his original audition in Cape Town, and was always regarded as a threat standing in the path of a Black Idol.

    Cele's wife Janice said before the show: "I am already emotional, ecstatic and most of our entire dream would have come true, he has always wanted a better life for his family".

    Nonhlahla Shaweni, Cele's mother, said: "He has been successful in all his endeavours - We are proud of him".

    Blue’s wife Chireze said: "I will go mad, I am proud of him".

    His mother - before hearing the announcement - reiterated what she said before, that if her son wins "people around him will benefit".

    Idols judge Randall Abrahams gave both contestants advice to continue with their music career.

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