Courtney Act is one of the semi-finalists of Australian Idol in 2003. However she is only the third singer of the competition to release an official/solo single, following Guy Sebastian and Shannon Noll. This single is “Rub Me Wrong” and was released in 2004, peaking at #29 in the ARIAnet Singles Chart.

Courtney Act (a play on the phrase “caught in the act”) is actually the nom de guerre of “gender illusionist” Shane Jenek. Shane auditioned for Australian Idol as himself but did not get beyond the selection auditions. Returning the next day as Courtney, he wowed the judges and went through to the semifinals. Revealing impressive voice and singing talents as well as a stage presence considerably ahead of many of the other contestants, he/she continued until being finally voted off in thirteenth place. Courtney particularly impressed judge Ian “Dicko” Dickson, who signed Jenek to the BMG label following the completion of the show.

Shane Jenek is a native of Brisbane, but now lives in Sydney.

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