Newton's talk to ACA's Tracy

Matthew Newton's parents Bert and Patti spoke to Channel Nine's A Current Affair host Tracy Grimshaw tonight. It was the first time they openly discussed their son's problems and acknowledged his battles with drugs, alcohol and mental illness. But was the timing of the interview right given that Matthew is on suicide watch in a Melbourne hospital?

Considering Bert and Patti didn't give an interview in 2007 when Matthew assaulted his ex-girlfriend Brooke Satchwell, why publically comment now about their son's alledged Rachel Taylor assault. They're obviously stressed parents but couldn't they have at least waited until Matthew was better? Why speak in the midst of his personal troubles?

Above: Patti and Bert Newton during the interview

As for the actual interview: Grimshaw hardly asked any questions and with Patti doing most of the talking it was like Bert and Patt were in control. The stand-out quote from the interview was from Patti. She said

Bert has had a very long, good career over 60 years and I feel extremely sad that he might be remembered for the fact that Matthew caused so much trouble and heartache to everybody.

It's like Patti dobbed in her son for tarnishing Bert's long-standing Australian television career and in turn the family's golden reputation.

X Factor host swaperoo

Channel 7's new talent show The X Factor will get a new host after Matthew Newton was "forced to quit". Newton allegedly assaulted his now ex-girlfriend Rachel Taylor at a hotel in Rome during a private holiday.

Newton is reportedly back in rehab at a private hospital in Melbourne and Taylor has apparantely sought an apprehended violence order against him.

Right: Taylor and Newton (Image from ABC)

Now The X Factor is scheduled to air on Monday without their original host. Late last night, Channel 7 announced that Home and Away actor Luke Jacobz will be the new host. According to Jacobz's bio, he hosted 7's talent show Popstars in 2000-01. Can you remember what was he like? Post your comments.

Above: Luke Jacobz (Image from Yahoo!7)

By the way, what does The X Factor's owner Simon Cowell think of all of this? Cowell quit being an American Idol judge to launch The X Factor in America after great success in the UK.

With the Australian version off to a shaky start, it will be interesting to see how Channel 7 deal with the pre-recorded episodes featuring Newton.

Left: Simon Cowell (Image from People.com)