It is amusing to see host Johnny Young’s mispronunciation of Dannii’s surname in this short clip of her first performance as a talent show contestant in 1979.

Little did he know that the Minogue sisters Dannii and Kylie would become household names in Australia and around the world. The chance to see up-and-coming stars was a big appeal of the show for audiences and this is a classic 'before they were famous' example.

Dannii performs the Shirley Temple classic ‘On the Good Ship Lollipop’ composed by Richard A Whiting and Sidney Clare.

Although Dannii doesn’t win her heat, judge Evie Hayes says ‘I’m sure that with proper coaching and tuition she will have a very fine future’. Dannii became a cast member in 1982 and stayed with the show until 1988.

Dannii transitioned into an acting and pop music career and has since sold over 7 million records worldwide. Since 2007, she has been a popular talent show judge in Australia and the UK on programs like Australia's Got Talent (2007–2012), The X Factor UK (2007–2010) and The Masked Singer Australia (2019–current).

This excerpt is from episode 79/38.

Notes by Beth Taylor