We’re all friends here at this kindy
Although at times you wouldn’t think so
But a smile and a hug, or a gently I’m sorry
Makes you feel okay
Okay, okay, okay, okay
- We’re All Friends, Lyrics
Sounds like a great sentiment doesn’t it? But when you’re in a band that makes millions a year in merchandise, CD sales, and concert tickets, that sentiment amounts to more of a line item in a ledger than an actual concept. Even more so if you’re one of the Wiggles who’s been sent packing with his hat in hand.
Sam Moran, aka the Yellow Wiggle for the last 5 years, was abruptly fired over the holidays and replaced with the original Yellow Wiggle Greg Page, who had left the kids band five years ago to attend to an illness he had contracted known as dysautonomia. According to the Wiggles press release, Page had returned to fine form and Moran had offered to step down so that Page could resume his role as the original Yellow Wiggle. But the real story is that Moran was forced out. Dumped to make room for Page’s return.
Passing the shirt.
Now as a parent who has a kid who grew up on the Wiggles, I am happy for Page’s return. The Wiggs weren’t really the same after his departure and apparently everyone thought so as their Disney Channel TV Series was canceled shortly after he left the group and ticket and CD sales have dropped dramatically since. But here’s the thing. Kids who remember Greg as the Yellow Wiggle are approaching their teen years. Kids who know the current Wiggles now, don’t know or even care that Greg was the original Wiggle. He’s the outsider. The guy who replaced THEIR Wiggle in the Yellow Shirt.
And what makes it even more interesting is that the other three Wiggles – Murray (Red), Anthony (Blue) and Jeff (Purple) – are sole owners in the Wiggles, Inc., sharing equally in the annual $28.1 million payday. This is believed to be the reason for Moran’s unceremonious departure as he was merely on a performing contract getting an annual salary. But since Page got a buy out when he original left the group, his returnb means that he is also merely a shirt for hire. So with millions in toys, CDs and ticket sales on the line, the big question will be – if the bottom line doesn’t rise, how long before Page gets the boot for someone else?
Hat Tip – The Telegraph