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STAR SEARCH

Tony Oller enjoyed his third television appearance within a 7 month period when he was chosen as a Junior Singer on the hit CBS TV show Star Search. Over 2,000 children and adults auditioned in Houston. Tony was one of only two people invited to Hollywood out of that group. During the incredible week at the Star Search studio, he and other hopefuls rehearsed songs and worked with a vocal coach and choreographer daily in hope of being one of those chosen to be on the show. His hard work paid off and he got his wish. On May 2, 2003, 12-year-old Tony sang the song "I Think She Likes Me" on live television before 12 million viewers watching nationwide. He gave a fabulous performance and earned rave reviews from all four judges. He and hilarious host Arsenio Hall enjoyed each other's company and spent the afternoon together, laughing, joking and singing before the show.

Alex Williams, Tony Oller and Courtney Zahn outside their dressing rooms

Tony earned a total score of 32 stars for his performance (17 stars from the judges and 15 stars from 'America's Vote') to his competitor Courtney Zahn's 35 stars. Courtney and Tony became good friends during that week and they still keep in touch. This great experience gave Tony the chance to learn one of life's most valuable lessons: "It's not whether you win or lose, it's how you play the game".

Tony and Arsenio Hall

Here's what the Star Search in-studio judges had to say about Tony's performance:

Naomi Judd: "If I was 40 years younger, you'd be carrying my books. You're a charm-a-rama. I have to give you 5 stars - you're just too cute!"

Tony and Naomi Judd

Ben Stein: "He's the best country singer we've ever had on this show. Amazing voice, amazing talent, amazing self-possession on stage..." (Naomi Judd interjects "He's a Boy Scout! Oooh!") "...AMAZING self-possession. 5 rockin' stars!"

Tony and Ben Stein

Ahmet Zappa: "How do I get to be that cool? I mean, you're cool!" (Tony interjects "YOU'RE cool!") "No, no, YOU are cool. You're lookin' bad to the bone. You sang, you worked the audience. 4 stars - you were awesome!"

Tony and Ahmet Zappa

Wayne Brady, Guest Judge (no photo available): "Man, you did a great job. You look great, you've got a great package. You were winking to the girls as you were singing. You did this." [Wayne Brady mimics a "player"-type gesture Tony did while talking to Arsenio Hall after his performance]. (laughing) "This is the move that put it over the top. I think that you need to tune things up a bit but you're an incredible performer. I give you 3 stars. Great job."

During that week Tony even got to meet the young actors and actresses of the TV show That's So Raven which is taped in another studio on the lot. Tony especially enjoyed meeting actor Orlando Brown who was very fun and friendly and allowed Tony to videotape him saying "Hi!" to all of Tony's friends.

Click here to view Tony's page on the CBS Star Search website:

http://www.cbs.com/primetime/star_search3/junior_bio.php?jf=tony_oller