DEPOSED Sam Moran led a "lonely life'' as a yellow Wiggle, with accusations that Anthony Field refused to talk to him off-stage for two years.

"Anthony didn't speak to him for two years unless they had to communicate as part of being on stage,'' a close source said.

"Sam is such a genuine guy. The way he was treated was appalling. There was a toxic atmosphere because it was obvious he was being deliberately ostracised.

"The other members really felt like they had to follow suit because one of them was such a dominant personality.''

Moran's axing - he was replaced by original member Greg Page - triggered protests from fans.

Rob Miles, who worked with the group for 14 years as a production manager, said: "I'm sad to see Sam has been dealt a familiar hand that many of us have been dealt.''

But Paul Field, manager of The Wiggles, responded to the allegations by saying that Anthony was a ``private person'' and during his time off between shows the group did not socialise, spending time with their families.

He added employees were often hired for live shows only: "Over the years, employees have certainly come and gone, but all for valid reasons between The Wiggles and themselves.

"If someone still feels disgruntled that they lost a job years ago, then that's very unfortunate.''

Miles added: "There's more to The Wiggles story than many people realise.

"To step into Greg's shoes was a huge job. He (Sam) carried that group through the past five years, professionally, with integrity and with respect.

"It's a pity he didn't receive the same in his dismissal.''

According to reports he had no warning he was about to lose his job.

Some who used to work with The Wiggles said it came as no surprise and the way he was "got rid of'' was nothing new.

A former employee said: "This is the first time they have done this to someone so publicly involved in the group.

"This is how they treat people who show them loyalty and hard work.''

