Sportingbet Austraila has named James as the $1.75 favourite to be eliminated from Idol on Sunday night.

James scraped into the top four last week only after school teacher Toby Moulton stepped aside from the competition, in what has been described as a bombshell exit.

In a heartfelt speech, Toby announced his withdrawal from the show explaining he is "truly a teacher" and he could no longer continue on the Idol adventure.

"After many, many hours of soul searching and many sleepless nights... I have come to a point where I have realised that at this stage I do not want a career in music and these four people do. They each have an enthusiasm and drive that I cannot match and I must step aside so that they have the best chance to prosper as young Australian artists."

Host Andrew G revealed James would have been leaving, but because of Toby's decision, he had another chance in the competition.

"I could see James struggled to get through his first song (after hearing the news)," said James' mum Marie.

"He was pretty emotional and choked up."

Marie said Toby sacrificed his position for James as he knew he had a strong voting pull. "And because he knew how committed James is to his music and had heard his songwriting abilities."

Sydney schoolboy Nathan Brake is second favourite to be voted off at $2.25, while Hayley Warner ($11) and Stan Walker ($14) remain firm favourites to make the Idol grand final.

Turning his roller-coaster ride of emotions into a passion to succeed, Marie said James is looking at Toby's withdrawal from the competition as his "wildcard".

"Okay, I've been given a second chance and I'll do the best I can with it," James said.

Not knowing which way the votes will swing, Marie said there is every chance James will pick-up Toby's fan base and make it into the final three.

This week, Idols will be performing with Fall Out Boy's bassist and lyricist, Pete Wentz.

Tune in to Southern Cross 10 at 7.30pm this Sunday to catch all the action.

Voting lines are open until midnight tonight. SMS James to 19 10 10 or call 1902 55 55 62 to keep him in the competition.

Footnote: James apologised to fans and supporters via Facebook yesterday for not responding to his many emails, explaining the Idols have been kept busy learning three songs for this Sunday's performance.