Pop Idol star Chris "The Vicar" Hide could be a millionaire within two years despite being voted off the contest, TV insiders said today.

Millions of viewers watched student Chris break down as he was booted off the wannabe show on Saturday night.

But insiders said 18-year-old Chris, who lives with his parents in a semi-detached house in Lancing, could still cash in on his fame.

They pointed out that Gareth Gates did not win last year but went on to be a star.

With a Pop Idol album out today, a single out next week and a six-date concert tour starting in March, Chris's future looks assured.

A Pop Idol spokesman said: "The world really will be his oyster. He is being temporarily looked after by 19 Management until the end of the tour and after that I'm sure he will have lots of options to consider."

Chris's mother, Penny, 48, said: "He has certainly got a very bright future ahead of him and obviously he will have a lot of decisions to make."

Mrs Hide, her husband Brian and their daughter Rebecca, 23, travelled to London with friends for the show.

She said: "We've had an awful lot of support and we are so grateful for it all."

Chris said he was now looking forward to the Pop Idol album and tour, which starts at the Birmingham NEC on March 10.

He said: "I wasn't surprised to go but I wouldn't have been surprised had I stayed. Someone had to go and everyone is so talented."

Judge Neil Fox, who nicknamed him The Vicar, said: "I am certain record companies will be queuing up to sign him."