Meet the New Wiggles

The New Wiggles! Photo by John Carmean

After 21 fun-filled years, The Wiggles are experiencing a major makeover. Original members of the Australian sensation pop group for teeny tots: Jeff Fatt (wears purple and has a funny case of narcolepsy), Murray Cook (wears red and loves his guitar), and Greg Page (yellow shirt, lead singer, used to make magic) are retiring. With health concerns and a yearning to spend more time with family as reasons for stepping down, Anthony Field (blue shirt, loves healthy food and working out with me) will be left at the helm to steer a new ship of Wiggles around the world thrilling millions of children each year. (continues after video)

Thankfully, Paddy ~~Paul Paddick~~ will be sticking around too. As a man of the sea, one would think that as Captain Feathersword, he’d be steering the ship, but he’s just far to silly to walk or cruise in a straight line. And that’s just as well = he’s got flips, tricks and other ridiculous things to do. This man will do ANYTHING for a laugh, so it’s a good thing he’s sticking around.

I am thrilled to have been able to meet the new Wiggles who are sure to continue the legacy of high-end entertainment for children. Each are crazy talented. After six years of working with these amazing men and women, I view them as dear friends whom I look forward to visiting with annually. They’re the best of all things combined. Warm hearts, a passion for educating and entertaining children, shrewd business skills, athleticism, musical talent, fun natures and wicked senses of humor. Congratulations to Emma Watkins, Simon Pryce and Lachy Gillespie on their spectacular new roles. Congratulations Greg, Murray and Jeff on your retirement. You’ll be sorely missed.

Please return to find individual interviews with: Jeff, Murray, Greg, Emma, Simon, Lachy and Wiggly dancer Nick Hutchinson! This slideshow features some of the fun I had on stage in Jacksonville, Florida, pre-concert with The Wiggles!

[flagallery gid=26 name=Gallery]

Video compliments of WCJB-TV20. All photos taken by John Carmean. Copyright: Fitzness International