ONE of the original members of children's entertainment group Hi-5 Kellie Crawford has announced she's quitting the group after 10 years to pursue an acting career.
Crawford, 34, said she has been thinking of leaving for the past year and had decided the Carols on Christmas Eve this year would be the right time to bow out.
"I'm getting older and I just wanted to try and do as much as I can with my life because I can't be a kids' performer for my whole life," she told AAP.
"I guess I just wanted to open more doors so when I eventually do have kids I have stability, and I've got a job I can continue to do with that as well."
Crawford, who married in May, says she wants to return to her acting roots. Her departure leaves just one original member, her ex-fiance Nathan Foley.
She said she was delighted with her 10 years in the group, which is now among Australia's highest entertainers and has won five ARIA awards and three Logies.
"I would've always taken this opportunity if I was given it again. It's taken me all over the world," she said.
Southern Star and Channel Nine are now on the lookout for a replacement and Crawford wished them well.
"I just hope I can continue to give encouragement to the new cast members, and try to get them on the way for another 10 years," Crawford said.
"I'm sure they'll pick someone who's more talented than me and can just kick butt."
Originally published asKellie Crawford quits Hi-5
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