Sacked X Factor New Zealand Judges Apologise For Nasty Comments

March 20, 2015

The two X Factor New Zealand judges who were sacked earlier this week after making abusive comments to a contestant have apologised for their actions.

Natalia Kills and husband Willy Moon, who were fired from broadcaster TV3 after criticising singer Joe Irvine and his rendition of Michael Buble’s Cry Me A River, have both released statements on Twitter.

In her statement (below), Kills says:

“A lot goes on behind-the-scenes of a reality show and what you see isn’t always the whole story. The show brought me on to bring my passion, dramatic expression and perspective. I was encouraged to be outspoken and things got out of hand.

“Joe, I hope you can forgive me and I wish you all the best! Be natural, unconventional and be you!”

Moon has shared a very similar statement (below), which reads:

“The reality of ‘reality’ TV is that there’s a lot the viewer doesn’t see. The show encourages judges to be forthright and highly opinionated. It went too far and I never intended to single anyone out.

“I wish the contestants, crew, and particularly Joe, all the best.”

Kills and Moon were originally criticised for laying into Irvine’s appearance and accusing him of copycatting. Following his performance, Kills said, “As an artist who respects artists’ integrity and intellectual property I am disgusted at how much you have copied my husband.

“From the hair, to the suit, do you not have any value or respect for originality? You’re a laughing stock. It’s cheesy, it’s disgusting. I personally found it absolutely artistically atrocious. I am embarrassed to be sitting here in your presence, even having to dignify you with an answer of my opinion.”

Moon said Irvine was “like Norman Bates dressing up in his mother’s clothing”, which was followed by boos from the crowd. “It’s just a little bit creepy and I feel like you’re going to stitch someone’s skin to your face and then kill everyone in the audience,” Moon added.

Kills and Moon were sacked less than 24 hours after the episode was recorded. Aussie singer Natalie Bassingthwaighte and I Am Giant drummer Shelton Woolright have been announced as replacement judges on X Factor New Zealand, and will join Mel Blatt and Stan Walker.

Relive the comments which got Kills and Moon fired, below, and listen out for the audience members who clearly don’t know what a “doppelgänger” is.