Countdown's 50th Anniversary: Molly Meldrum Reflects on Kylie Minogue and Michael Hutchence's Romance
The ABC celebrated the 50th anniversary of Countdown, the iconic Australian pop music show that helped launch many careers, including Kylie Minogue's. Ian 'Molly' Meldrum reminisced about Kylie's first encounter with Michael Hutchence, their passionate romance from 1989 to 1991, and the show's significant impact on the music industry, showcasing numerous legendary artists.
The Australian pop music show Countdown played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of numerous artists, including Kylie Minogue and Michael Hutchence of INXS, who shared a high-profile romance for over two years. As the program celebrated its 50th anniversary, Ian 'Molly' Meldrum reflected on the iconic moments from the show.
Molly Meldrum Remembers Kylie's Countdown Journey
Ian 'Molly' Meldrum, the long-time host of Countdown, reminisced about Kylie Minogue's introduction to the show. She first visited the studio as a 13-year-old in 1981. Meldrum recalled a moment when a band threw a drumstick into the audience, which a young Kylie attempted to catch, only to fail. This early experience certainly marked the beginning of her journey in the music industry.
The Blossoming Romance Between Kylie and Michael
Meldrum highlighted a significant encounter at an afterparty following Countdown's second-to-last show in 1987, where Kylie formally met Michael Hutchence. This meeting set off a passionate relationship that captured media attention for more than two years, with Hutchence and Kylie dating from 1989 to 1991. In the 2019 documentary Mystify: Michael Hutchence, Kylie reflected on their relationship, indicating that he had 'broken her heart' during their time together.
Countdown's Enduring Impact on the Music Scene
Countdown, which premiered on November 8, 1974, and concluded in July 1987, became internationally recognized as a trendsetter. The show played a vital role in the careers of legendary artists such as ABBA, Elton John, and Olivia Newton-John, and was instrumental in bringing Australian bands like Cold Chisel and INXS to a broader audience. Its influence was so significant that many in the music industry viewed an appearance on Countdown as essential for achieving chart success.
The Lasting Legacy of Iconic Performers
Both Kylie Minogue and Michael Hutchence gained substantial popularity through their association with Countdown. Following their split, Kylie became known for her high-profile relationships, while Hutchence later found love with television personality Paula Yates. Tragically, Hutchence's life ended on November 22, 1997, when he was discovered deceased in his Sydney hotel room.
