INXS have expressed their surprise after frontman JD Fortune said he had been sacked without notice.

Fortune, who joined the group in 2005 following public auditions for a new singer, said he had been dismissed at Hong Kong Airport.

“I don't know where I am going, from sofa to sofa, from night to night,” he told Canadian television. “I am trying to get through my life."

In a statement, INXS said they were "shocked and despondent" by Fortune's claims, but failed to clarify whether they were true or not.

“Not only are we shocked by the claims, even the place the supposed incident was to have taken place is a mystery," the band said.

INXS's creative director, CM Murphy, told the BBC: "The band have always stated to me that Fortune's services could potentially be contracted again when INXS next tour.

"In fact, he was next on my list to call regarding a very big recording project I am putting together for INXS at present. I guess I have no reason to call him now."

Fortune was drafted into the band to replace the late Michael Hutchence.

The singer, 25, recorded one album, 'Switch', during his four years with INXS.

(by Jason Gregory)