Anthony Callea, born Anthony Cosmo Callea on December 13, 1982 in Melbourne, landed a recording contract with Sony/BMG after his appearance on the 2004 season of Australian Idol. Ironically, he was voted off the show by viewers, but reinstated as a "wildcard" pick. Of 30 finalists, Callea went on to capture the runner-up spot.
The first single from his self-titled debut album, "The Prayer", is Australia's highest selling single in history.
The first single from his self-titled debut album, "The Prayer", is Australia's highest selling single in history.
Gay Anthony Callea:
Callea publicly denied rumors of his same-gender-loving feelings in a 2004 Herald Sun interview. He later revealed his sexuality in March of 2007 after being outed by an acquaintance on a Sydney radio show. Callea told the AAP, "I have no issue with my sexuality now but it's taken time to become confident with who I am and happy with who I am." He continued, "I didn't want to be known as just the gay contestant from Idol."
Anthony Callea's Message to Fans:
Read Anthony Callea's personal apology and statement to fans in A New Chapter—A Message to My Fans.
