The always warm-and-fuzzy Simon Cowell is all about encouraging contestants on The X Factor this weekend - when he's not saying they look "half-dead".
Poor Max Stone gets a right ripping from the X Factor judge as soon as he steps on stage for the Six Chair Challenge looking a bit aloof.
X Factor's 9 most bonkers novelty acts: From Wagner's bongos to Jedward-mania
The X Factor 2015: Mason Noise spotted joining the Boys, and Che Chesterman gives Josh Daniel a cheeky squeeze
"You look - if you don't mind me saying so - like you're half-dead," Simon complains, before Max has sung a single note.
In an effort to liven up young Max, Simon encourages him to cut loose and have a bit of fun… if he wants to remain in the competition, that is.
Yikes, surely it'll be easy to relax under that kind of pressure.
Poor Max Stone gets a right ripping from the X Factor judge as soon as he steps on stage for the Six Chair Challenge looking a bit aloof.
X Factor's 9 most bonkers novelty acts: From Wagner's bongos to Jedward-mania
The X Factor 2015: Mason Noise spotted joining the Boys, and Che Chesterman gives Josh Daniel a cheeky squeeze
"You look - if you don't mind me saying so - like you're half-dead," Simon complains, before Max has sung a single note.
In an effort to liven up young Max, Simon encourages him to cut loose and have a bit of fun… if he wants to remain in the competition, that is.
Yikes, surely it'll be easy to relax under that kind of pressure.
- 10/16/2015
- Digital Spy
The X Factor knows how to create drama. From the blast of 'O Fortuna' as Simon Cowell and his buddies enter the stage, to former voiceover man Peter Dickson hamming it up, they've got the atmosphere nailed.
One of the most exciting elements of the show will always be the big Sunday night eliminations, especially if the dreaded Deadlock comes into play. Most of the time, the judges get it right, but sometimes there are downright shocks. Here are the biggest to date, brought to you in association with TalkTalk's new Bopheads app:
1. Laura White (series 5)
Wigan lass Laura was tipped for X Factor success in 2008's early stages, but found herself in a tough girls group with the public's favourite indie fairy Diana Vickers and future victor Alexandra Burke. Even so, no-one expected her to leave as early as the fifth week, especially with Ricky Gervais lookalike Daniel Evans still knocking around.
One of the most exciting elements of the show will always be the big Sunday night eliminations, especially if the dreaded Deadlock comes into play. Most of the time, the judges get it right, but sometimes there are downright shocks. Here are the biggest to date, brought to you in association with TalkTalk's new Bopheads app:
1. Laura White (series 5)
Wigan lass Laura was tipped for X Factor success in 2008's early stages, but found herself in a tough girls group with the public's favourite indie fairy Diana Vickers and future victor Alexandra Burke. Even so, no-one expected her to leave as early as the fifth week, especially with Ricky Gervais lookalike Daniel Evans still knocking around.
- 10/2/2015
- Digital Spy
The grumbles that The X Factor has lost its touch have been rumbling for a while. And when even Louis Walsh is fed up of the show, maybe you do have a problem.
But like Louis returning for the X Factor promo, we just can't quite let go. We've heard Simon Cowell's grand proclamations of change for years now, so would this time around really be any different?
It's early days, but on the strength of the first episode last night, well, yes.
This is a show both comfortable with its past - nods to Wagner and Tesco Mary - and looking forward to its future. Gone are the sickening X Factor standards, as the judges urge acts to choose something different from the Whitneys and Beyoncés we've heard so often before. Nick Grimshaw even dubs one song "a bit X Factor audition".
And the show's tongue in cheek,...
But like Louis returning for the X Factor promo, we just can't quite let go. We've heard Simon Cowell's grand proclamations of change for years now, so would this time around really be any different?
It's early days, but on the strength of the first episode last night, well, yes.
This is a show both comfortable with its past - nods to Wagner and Tesco Mary - and looking forward to its future. Gone are the sickening X Factor standards, as the judges urge acts to choose something different from the Whitneys and Beyoncés we've heard so often before. Nick Grimshaw even dubs one song "a bit X Factor audition".
And the show's tongue in cheek,...
- 8/30/2015
- Digital Spy
The X Factor kicked off in true style tonight - great acts, funny judges and loads of brilliant moments. But some bits stood out more than others...
1. The return of Wagner
"It's Vagner!"
2. Grimmy and Cheryl scaring Simon and Rita
Cheeky.
3. Literally everything about Techno Susie
From her talk of cockatiel Peter and his feelings about her being on the show ("I don't think he minds or cares, you know") to Techno Techno Techno Techno to the joy we feel in our hearts when we watch her.
4. But especially this Rita Ora gif
5. And Simon's snark
"This is why our chairs don't spin."
6. Lauren's complete inability to choose a song by someone other than Whitney Houston.
"Apart from Whitney, what other uptempo songs have you got?" "'I Wanna Dance With Somebody'?" "By Whitney." "'How Will I Know'?" "By Whitney."
7. Robot Boy dancing in the crowd to Lauren.
Life-affirming.
8. Man & Woman's on-off romance.
1. The return of Wagner
"It's Vagner!"
2. Grimmy and Cheryl scaring Simon and Rita
Cheeky.
3. Literally everything about Techno Susie
From her talk of cockatiel Peter and his feelings about her being on the show ("I don't think he minds or cares, you know") to Techno Techno Techno Techno to the joy we feel in our hearts when we watch her.
4. But especially this Rita Ora gif
5. And Simon's snark
"This is why our chairs don't spin."
6. Lauren's complete inability to choose a song by someone other than Whitney Houston.
"Apart from Whitney, what other uptempo songs have you got?" "'I Wanna Dance With Somebody'?" "By Whitney." "'How Will I Know'?" "By Whitney."
7. Robot Boy dancing in the crowd to Lauren.
Life-affirming.
8. Man & Woman's on-off romance.
- 8/29/2015
- Digital Spy
The X Factor is back tonight with new judges, new hosts and a new look. But you know all of that! There's plenty of stuff going on in the episode for you to get your teeth into - here are just ten teasers about things to look out for...
1. In the very first audition, Simon Cowell grins: "This is why our chairs don't spin." Ouch.
2. You know those traditional X Factor audition songs? The ones we've heard a million times? Yeah, the judges might be fed up of them now too.
3. You might already have seen that Wagner appears in the opening sequence... but his rumoured former love interest Tesco Mary also gets a namecheck!
4. Olly Murs's friend Jon auditions - they used to be in a band called The Small Town Blaggers. How will he do?
5. "You define the word joy."
6. In a time-honoured tradition started on The Voice UK,...
1. In the very first audition, Simon Cowell grins: "This is why our chairs don't spin." Ouch.
2. You know those traditional X Factor audition songs? The ones we've heard a million times? Yeah, the judges might be fed up of them now too.
3. You might already have seen that Wagner appears in the opening sequence... but his rumoured former love interest Tesco Mary also gets a namecheck!
4. Olly Murs's friend Jon auditions - they used to be in a band called The Small Town Blaggers. How will he do?
5. "You define the word joy."
6. In a time-honoured tradition started on The Voice UK,...
- 8/28/2015
- Digital Spy
And so it's over. Ben Haenow has been crowned the winner of The X Factor after months of auditions and more auditions and Boot Camp and Judges' Houses and live shows. Now what?
Well, we're not quite ready to say goodbye just yet, so we've collected some of our favourite moments of the series. We're not talking performances as such - we're talking all the silly sideshow bits and bobs that have made this series. Are any as good as Jedward doing their own backing vocals or Rachel Adedeji falling over? We'll leave that up to you to decide.
So without further ado, here they are, in no particular order...
1. Only The Young shouty man
We're not quite sure when we started noticing Only The Young shouty man, but that's just because it feels like he's always been there. The over-exuberant supporter has invaded our consciousness to such an extent...
Well, we're not quite ready to say goodbye just yet, so we've collected some of our favourite moments of the series. We're not talking performances as such - we're talking all the silly sideshow bits and bobs that have made this series. Are any as good as Jedward doing their own backing vocals or Rachel Adedeji falling over? We'll leave that up to you to decide.
So without further ado, here they are, in no particular order...
1. Only The Young shouty man
We're not quite sure when we started noticing Only The Young shouty man, but that's just because it feels like he's always been there. The over-exuberant supporter has invaded our consciousness to such an extent...
- 12/15/2014
- Digital Spy
The X Factor brought back several of its most memorable performers for a medley on Saturday's show (December 13).
Billed as the show's "greatest hits", host Dermot O'Leary introduced a version of Black Eyed Peas' 'The Time (Dirty Bit)' that began with Stevi Ritchie flying through the crowd.
Ritchie was soon joined on stage by past contestants Chloe Jasmine, Wagner Fiuza-Carrilho, Diva Fever and Chico Slimani.
Wagner was accompanied by two scantily-clad women while he played the bongos and rapped the line: "All these girls like my swagger, they call me big tiger!"
Someone pass us some sunglasses please #XFactorFinal pic.twitter.com/x3jFwXX8QO
— The X Factor (@TheXFactor) December 13, 2014
Katie Waissel was last onto the stage wearing a Lady Gaga-like stage costume, complete with a blocky black mask.
Waissel lived up to her outspoken reputation by appearing to tell judge Simon Cowell that he "owes her" during her appearance.
Billed as the show's "greatest hits", host Dermot O'Leary introduced a version of Black Eyed Peas' 'The Time (Dirty Bit)' that began with Stevi Ritchie flying through the crowd.
Ritchie was soon joined on stage by past contestants Chloe Jasmine, Wagner Fiuza-Carrilho, Diva Fever and Chico Slimani.
Wagner was accompanied by two scantily-clad women while he played the bongos and rapped the line: "All these girls like my swagger, they call me big tiger!"
Someone pass us some sunglasses please #XFactorFinal pic.twitter.com/x3jFwXX8QO
— The X Factor (@TheXFactor) December 13, 2014
Katie Waissel was last onto the stage wearing a Lady Gaga-like stage costume, complete with a blocky black mask.
Waissel lived up to her outspoken reputation by appearing to tell judge Simon Cowell that he "owes her" during her appearance.
- 12/13/2014
- Digital Spy
Eight-piece boybands, middle-aged men dressed as Egyptians getting honey rubbed on their chests, Louis Walsh being... Louis Walsh. Yes, this series of X Factor might not have been the most thrilling, but even in a non-vintage year, there has been plenty to laugh at and enjoy.
This evening's final features Fleur East, Ben Haenow and Andrea Faustini battling for the prize of a record contract and the chance to hit the charts in time for Christmas. All the betting and polls seem to suggest that it's a one-horse race with Fleur running away with it, but The X Factor has thrown up surprises in the past, so nothing can be ruled out.
The X Factor: Find out Andrea, Ben and Fleur's final songs
The X Factor: 10 things we learned from the final press conference
The live final is always a spectacular affair, with hordes of special guests over the weekend (Sheeran!
This evening's final features Fleur East, Ben Haenow and Andrea Faustini battling for the prize of a record contract and the chance to hit the charts in time for Christmas. All the betting and polls seem to suggest that it's a one-horse race with Fleur running away with it, but The X Factor has thrown up surprises in the past, so nothing can be ruled out.
The X Factor: Find out Andrea, Ben and Fleur's final songs
The X Factor: 10 things we learned from the final press conference
The live final is always a spectacular affair, with hordes of special guests over the weekend (Sheeran!
- 12/13/2014
- Digital Spy
Eight-piece boybands, middle-aged men dressed as Egyptians getting honey rubbed on their chests, Louis Walsh being... Louis Walsh. Yes, this series of X Factor might not have been the most thrilling, but even in a non-vintage year, there has been plenty to laugh at and enjoy.
This evening's final features Fleur East, Ben Haenow and Andrea Faustini battling for the prize of a record contract and the chance to hit the charts in time for Christmas. All the betting and polls seem to suggest that it's a one-horse race with Fleur running away with it, but The X Factor has thrown up surprises in the past, so nothing can be ruled out.
The X Factor: Find out Andrea, Ben and Fleur's final songs
The X Factor: 10 things we learned from the final press conference
The live final is always a spectacular affair, with hordes of special guests over the weekend (Sheeran!
This evening's final features Fleur East, Ben Haenow and Andrea Faustini battling for the prize of a record contract and the chance to hit the charts in time for Christmas. All the betting and polls seem to suggest that it's a one-horse race with Fleur running away with it, but The X Factor has thrown up surprises in the past, so nothing can be ruled out.
The X Factor: Find out Andrea, Ben and Fleur's final songs
The X Factor: 10 things we learned from the final press conference
The live final is always a spectacular affair, with hordes of special guests over the weekend (Sheeran!
- 12/13/2014
- Digital Spy
The three X Factor finalists have recorded their winner's singles.
Fleur East and Ben Haenow have both recorded a cover of OneRepublic's 'Something I Need', while Andrea Faustini has recorded a version of Whitney Houston's 'I Didn't Know My Own Strength'.
The trio confirmed their choices on This Morning today (Friday, December 12).
Meanwhile, a host of X Factor contestants from previous years including Wagner, Chico, Diva Fever and Katie Waissel are expected to return for a special performance, according to The Sun.
"We will have a performance on Saturday featuring a range of previous contestants," an X Factor spokesperson told Digital Spy.
The X Factor final begins at 8.30pm on Saturday (December 13) on ITV.
Watch the video for OneRepublic's 'Something I Need' below:...
Fleur East and Ben Haenow have both recorded a cover of OneRepublic's 'Something I Need', while Andrea Faustini has recorded a version of Whitney Houston's 'I Didn't Know My Own Strength'.
The trio confirmed their choices on This Morning today (Friday, December 12).
Meanwhile, a host of X Factor contestants from previous years including Wagner, Chico, Diva Fever and Katie Waissel are expected to return for a special performance, according to The Sun.
"We will have a performance on Saturday featuring a range of previous contestants," an X Factor spokesperson told Digital Spy.
The X Factor final begins at 8.30pm on Saturday (December 13) on ITV.
Watch the video for OneRepublic's 'Something I Need' below:...
- 12/12/2014
- Digital Spy
The X Factor tension reached a fever pitch on Sunday (November 30) as the final five became the final four.
After guest performances from Union J, Ella Henderson and Queen + Adam Lambert, Stereo Kicks were sent home at the end of a sing-off with Lauren Platt.
Stereo Kicks' elimination garnered a lot of buzz on Twitter, so Digital Spy rounded up the reaction to the night's events, as they unfolded!
1. Queen performed on the X Factor stage. Was Adam Lambert a worthy replacement for the late Freddie Mercury?
Queen on the X factor ?? pic.twitter.com/Gk6db8k5HD
— Alan (@galvaniseduk) November 30, 2014
Queen giving The X Factor an up-to-date contemporary feel...
— Kevin O'Sullivan (@TVKev) November 30, 2014
Good Gawd ! @DrBrianMay What a knockout performance from Queen and @adamlambert I was on my feet applauding.Class,pure class.
— John Challis (@BeingBoycie) November 30, 2014
Can we ignore the rest of #xfactor and just let...
After guest performances from Union J, Ella Henderson and Queen + Adam Lambert, Stereo Kicks were sent home at the end of a sing-off with Lauren Platt.
Stereo Kicks' elimination garnered a lot of buzz on Twitter, so Digital Spy rounded up the reaction to the night's events, as they unfolded!
1. Queen performed on the X Factor stage. Was Adam Lambert a worthy replacement for the late Freddie Mercury?
Queen on the X factor ?? pic.twitter.com/Gk6db8k5HD
— Alan (@galvaniseduk) November 30, 2014
Queen giving The X Factor an up-to-date contemporary feel...
— Kevin O'Sullivan (@TVKev) November 30, 2014
Good Gawd ! @DrBrianMay What a knockout performance from Queen and @adamlambert I was on my feet applauding.Class,pure class.
— John Challis (@BeingBoycie) November 30, 2014
Can we ignore the rest of #xfactor and just let...
- 11/30/2014
- Digital Spy
The X Factor is brutal again this weekend - we've already said goodbye to Only The Young (sniff) and now another act is going to be following them out the door. Simon Cowell, how could you?
With just six acts still standing (ooh, sorry about those Stevi Ritchie trauma flashbacks), anyone could be going home tonight, making this all rather tense indeed. To lighten things up, we also have performances from Labrinth and Take That, so join us at 8pm when the show begins as we bring you all of the action...
20:59Bye!
20:59But for now, keep leaving your comments in the box below. Thanks for joining us!
20:58Right, that's your lot! We're onto the big Two-songs-each stage of the competition next week, with bonus performances from Queen, Ella Henderson and Union J. Make sure to join us right back here for that!
20:57Stevi says the...
With just six acts still standing (ooh, sorry about those Stevi Ritchie trauma flashbacks), anyone could be going home tonight, making this all rather tense indeed. To lighten things up, we also have performances from Labrinth and Take That, so join us at 8pm when the show begins as we bring you all of the action...
20:59Bye!
20:59But for now, keep leaving your comments in the box below. Thanks for joining us!
20:58Right, that's your lot! We're onto the big Two-songs-each stage of the competition next week, with bonus performances from Queen, Ella Henderson and Union J. Make sure to join us right back here for that!
20:57Stevi says the...
- 11/23/2014
- Digital Spy
Former X Factor contestant Wagner Fiuza-Carrilho is releasing a new single.
Wagner announced on Facebook today (November 19) that his fans can expect a new track to be available on iTunes "very soon".
Post by Wagner.
The singer also unveiled a new press shot of himself, complete with the tagline "Switched on like a radio".
Wagner became a media sensation when he competed on The X Factor in 2010.
He managed to last until the eighth week of the live shows that series, despite being routinely panned by the judges for his eccentric performances.
Ranking the 15 most ludicrous X Factor contestants of all time
Wagner appeared in the competition alongside future stars Matt Cardle, Rebecca Ferguson, Cher Lloyd and global sensation One Direction.
He has since competed on the Irish reality series Celebrity Head Chef.
Watch Wagner perform on The X Factor below:...
Wagner announced on Facebook today (November 19) that his fans can expect a new track to be available on iTunes "very soon".
Post by Wagner.
The singer also unveiled a new press shot of himself, complete with the tagline "Switched on like a radio".
Wagner became a media sensation when he competed on The X Factor in 2010.
He managed to last until the eighth week of the live shows that series, despite being routinely panned by the judges for his eccentric performances.
Ranking the 15 most ludicrous X Factor contestants of all time
Wagner appeared in the competition alongside future stars Matt Cardle, Rebecca Ferguson, Cher Lloyd and global sensation One Direction.
He has since competed on the Irish reality series Celebrity Head Chef.
Watch Wagner perform on The X Factor below:...
- 11/19/2014
- Digital Spy
Update: The double elimination on X Factor this weekend has now been confirmed.
The X Factor has teased a surprise "twist" for this weekend, amid reports of a double elimination.
A newly-released clip from ITV features judge Simon Cowell hinting that the remaining contestants are in for a surprise during Fright Night on Saturday (November 1).
"The difference this weekend is that there's gonna be a twist," Cowell warns the gathered contestants.
Digital Spy has reached out to The X Factor to respond to reports that a double elimination is being planned.
It has been confirmed that judge Cheryl Fernandez-Versini and John Legend will perform on the results show on Sunday (November 2).
Cheryl Fernandez-Versini interview: 'I've developed a F-You attitude'
X Factor: Little Mix, Wagner - Our top 12 Halloween Week performances
Producers have also announced that next Saturday's (November 8) episode will have a Girlband v Boyband theme.
The X Factor continues on Saturday on ITV.
The X Factor has teased a surprise "twist" for this weekend, amid reports of a double elimination.
A newly-released clip from ITV features judge Simon Cowell hinting that the remaining contestants are in for a surprise during Fright Night on Saturday (November 1).
"The difference this weekend is that there's gonna be a twist," Cowell warns the gathered contestants.
Digital Spy has reached out to The X Factor to respond to reports that a double elimination is being planned.
It has been confirmed that judge Cheryl Fernandez-Versini and John Legend will perform on the results show on Sunday (November 2).
Cheryl Fernandez-Versini interview: 'I've developed a F-You attitude'
X Factor: Little Mix, Wagner - Our top 12 Halloween Week performances
Producers have also announced that next Saturday's (November 8) episode will have a Girlband v Boyband theme.
The X Factor continues on Saturday on ITV.
- 10/30/2014
- Digital Spy
It might be a relatively new institution, but Halloween Week on The X Factor is always guaranteed to bring us brilliant performances - and some nightmare-inducing ones, too. It was, after all, Halloween Week which brought us Gary Barlow's infamous "fag ash breath" comment.
With our current batch of contestants hurriedly preparing their scariest songs, and once we got over the disappointment of discovering Jedward's 'Ghostbusters' was actually in Movie Week, we picked out 12 memorable Halloween Week performances from years gone by in no particular order...
1. Cher Lloyd - 'Stay'
This is how you shake it off! Cher was getting all sorts of criticism for being fond of an old rap or two, so she came out on Halloween Week to prove she could sing with a performance of the belter 'Stay' by Shakespears Sister. The vocals were slightly shaky at times but that didn't really matter because...
With our current batch of contestants hurriedly preparing their scariest songs, and once we got over the disappointment of discovering Jedward's 'Ghostbusters' was actually in Movie Week, we picked out 12 memorable Halloween Week performances from years gone by in no particular order...
1. Cher Lloyd - 'Stay'
This is how you shake it off! Cher was getting all sorts of criticism for being fond of an old rap or two, so she came out on Halloween Week to prove she could sing with a performance of the belter 'Stay' by Shakespears Sister. The vocals were slightly shaky at times but that didn't really matter because...
- 10/29/2014
- Digital Spy
The X Factor 2014 started its Live Shows with a No.1s Week theme. It's almost as if they wanted us to make the obvious joke about there being a large steaming pile of No.2s on the Fountain Studios stage. But we wouldn't be that crass.
It feels too early to be overly harsh about the Class of Series 11 - we've got a couple more months of this to endure yet - and this wasn't the worst crop of X Factor contestants we've ever been gifted. The real problem with this weekend's shows was that it felt like we'd seen it all before. About 10 times before, to be precise.
Simon Cowell couldn't even be bothered to tuck his shirt in on Saturday night's show, which pretty much embodied the shoulder shrug attitude from the producers and judges this year. Will this do? I guess it will have to, because it's this or the bloody Voice.
It feels too early to be overly harsh about the Class of Series 11 - we've got a couple more months of this to endure yet - and this wasn't the worst crop of X Factor contestants we've ever been gifted. The real problem with this weekend's shows was that it felt like we'd seen it all before. About 10 times before, to be precise.
Simon Cowell couldn't even be bothered to tuck his shirt in on Saturday night's show, which pretty much embodied the shoulder shrug attitude from the producers and judges this year. Will this do? I guess it will have to, because it's this or the bloody Voice.
- 10/13/2014
- Digital Spy
The X Factor kicked off the Live Shows tonight (October 11) – setting social media abuzz with commentary about the acts, the judges and Dermot!
Digital Spy rounds up the funniest reactions to the live shows below:
Simon Cowell narrowly avoided the wrath of Mrs Fernandez-Versini when he shushed her as he criticised her wildcard act Lola Saunders's outfit, but Twitter seemed to be on his side:
Haha love Simon shushing Cheryl. #xfactor
— Wayne Power (@PowerWayne) October 11, 2014
@TheXFactor #XFactor that dress is bloody awful!
— paula simpson (@pauliepie33) October 11, 2014
X factor stylish needs sacking asap
— Laura Watson (@laurawatson28) October 11, 2014
It was also revealed that wildcard Jack Walton already has one famous fan, as Simon Cowell said that One Direction's Louis Tomlinson had texted him to ask why the singer hadn't made it through to the Live Shows.
Louis was quick to reply to 'boss' Cowell.
Getting a shout from the boss...
Digital Spy rounds up the funniest reactions to the live shows below:
Simon Cowell narrowly avoided the wrath of Mrs Fernandez-Versini when he shushed her as he criticised her wildcard act Lola Saunders's outfit, but Twitter seemed to be on his side:
Haha love Simon shushing Cheryl. #xfactor
— Wayne Power (@PowerWayne) October 11, 2014
@TheXFactor #XFactor that dress is bloody awful!
— paula simpson (@pauliepie33) October 11, 2014
X factor stylish needs sacking asap
— Laura Watson (@laurawatson28) October 11, 2014
It was also revealed that wildcard Jack Walton already has one famous fan, as Simon Cowell said that One Direction's Louis Tomlinson had texted him to ask why the singer hadn't made it through to the Live Shows.
Louis was quick to reply to 'boss' Cowell.
Getting a shout from the boss...
- 10/11/2014
- Digital Spy
Everyone knows that the best week of X Factor every year is Judges House. Don't talk to us about Six Chair Challenges, this is the real deal.
Blending heartbreak, tears, Sinitta dressed in only some palm leaves and ludicrous Louis Walsh decisions, it's a microcosm of the entire show squeezed into one handy bite-size chunk of weekend telly.
But who deserves to make the cut and who should be going home on an EasyJet flight from Barbados with nothing more than a Dermot O'Leary hug to comfort them?
Here are the Top 12 acts who we believe must make the Live Shows.
The Boys
1. Andrea Faustini
First name on the team sheet. This Italian pug-lover simply has to be in Mel B's Top 3. His rendition of 'I Didn't Know My Own Strength' at Boot Camp left us a blubbering wreck and he's also the No.1 contestant we would most like to give a cuddle.
Blending heartbreak, tears, Sinitta dressed in only some palm leaves and ludicrous Louis Walsh decisions, it's a microcosm of the entire show squeezed into one handy bite-size chunk of weekend telly.
But who deserves to make the cut and who should be going home on an EasyJet flight from Barbados with nothing more than a Dermot O'Leary hug to comfort them?
Here are the Top 12 acts who we believe must make the Live Shows.
The Boys
1. Andrea Faustini
First name on the team sheet. This Italian pug-lover simply has to be in Mel B's Top 3. His rendition of 'I Didn't Know My Own Strength' at Boot Camp left us a blubbering wreck and he's also the No.1 contestant we would most like to give a cuddle.
- 9/30/2014
- Digital Spy
X Factor racked up the tension and pressure this weekend as we moved from the closed audition rooms to the arenas, and there were plenty of surprises and twists along the way.
A couple of stars from the first round were dropped after they faltered on the big stage (Amy Connelly), while others shocked us again by managing to get the 'yes' votes they needed to make it through *cough* Stevi Ritchie *cough*.
Returning singer Paul Akister was told that he had vocals like "liquid gold", Lauren Platt remains a good bet as the dark horse of the competition and James Graham was another surprise from Saturday with a powerful cover of 'I Can't Make You Love Me'.
On Sunday, boyband Overload look like One Direction Version 2.0 and girlband Rouge Kiss appear to be on the right track, even if Simon Cowell doesn't fancy their chances.
Stevi Ritchie is part Butlins Olly Murs,...
A couple of stars from the first round were dropped after they faltered on the big stage (Amy Connelly), while others shocked us again by managing to get the 'yes' votes they needed to make it through *cough* Stevi Ritchie *cough*.
Returning singer Paul Akister was told that he had vocals like "liquid gold", Lauren Platt remains a good bet as the dark horse of the competition and James Graham was another surprise from Saturday with a powerful cover of 'I Can't Make You Love Me'.
On Sunday, boyband Overload look like One Direction Version 2.0 and girlband Rouge Kiss appear to be on the right track, even if Simon Cowell doesn't fancy their chances.
Stevi Ritchie is part Butlins Olly Murs,...
- 9/14/2014
- Digital Spy
Has The X Factor found this year's winner already? And is she a fishmonger?
20-year-old South Shields fishmonger Lola Saunders doesn't live a glamorous lifestyle, admitting to the judges that she "stinks" of fish, but that might be all about to change after this audition.
X Factor quiz: Guess the judge from the outlandish quote
11 songs we don't want to hear on The X Factor this year
Lola blows away Simon Cowell and Cheryl Cole with her rendition of 'Make You Feel My Love', which is a world away from her day-to-day work gutting and flogging fish.
One contestant who has less success with the judges is 26-year-old Maria, who performs one of Simon Cowell's favourite songs, 'Street Life'.
Maria continually sings "shhtreee"' life rather than "Street" life and gives Cheryl Cole and Mel B a fit of the giggles.
Simon Cowell teases after her performance: "Do you know Shhtop?...
20-year-old South Shields fishmonger Lola Saunders doesn't live a glamorous lifestyle, admitting to the judges that she "stinks" of fish, but that might be all about to change after this audition.
X Factor quiz: Guess the judge from the outlandish quote
11 songs we don't want to hear on The X Factor this year
Lola blows away Simon Cowell and Cheryl Cole with her rendition of 'Make You Feel My Love', which is a world away from her day-to-day work gutting and flogging fish.
One contestant who has less success with the judges is 26-year-old Maria, who performs one of Simon Cowell's favourite songs, 'Street Life'.
Maria continually sings "shhtreee"' life rather than "Street" life and gives Cheryl Cole and Mel B a fit of the giggles.
Simon Cowell teases after her performance: "Do you know Shhtop?...
- 9/5/2014
- Digital Spy
It's been four years since Simon Cowell was last on the X Factor panel in the UK. In his last series, he introduced the world to One Direction, the ratings were sky high and his show was the only thing people talked about on Monday morning at work.
He returns, after having his Us version of the show flop and dumped, to find that The X Factor is no longer the dominant force in British television.
BBC One's Strictly Come Dancing now reigns supreme in the ratings war and the tabloids and British public seem more interested in melting frozen Alaskas and Mary Berry's opinion on soggy bottoms than his reunion with Cheryl Fernandez-Versini behind the judges' desk.
Series 11 of The X Factor is the biggest challenge that Cowell has faced since he first controversially launched the show, spinning off his new found superstar status on Pop Idol.
He returns, after having his Us version of the show flop and dumped, to find that The X Factor is no longer the dominant force in British television.
BBC One's Strictly Come Dancing now reigns supreme in the ratings war and the tabloids and British public seem more interested in melting frozen Alaskas and Mary Berry's opinion on soggy bottoms than his reunion with Cheryl Fernandez-Versini behind the judges' desk.
Series 11 of The X Factor is the biggest challenge that Cowell has faced since he first controversially launched the show, spinning off his new found superstar status on Pop Idol.
- 8/30/2014
- Digital Spy
It's been four years since Simon Cowell was last on the X Factor panel in the UK. In his last series, he introduced the world to One Direction, the ratings were sky high and his show was the only thing people talked about on Monday morning at work.
He returns, after having his Us version of the show flop and dumped, to find that The X Factor is no longer the dominant force in British television.
BBC One's Strictly Come Dancing now reigns supreme in the ratings war and the tabloids and British public seem more interested in melting frozen Alaskas and Mary Berry's opinion on soggy bottoms than his reunion with Cheryl Fernandez-Versini behind the judges' desk.
Series 11 of The X Factor is the biggest challenge that Cowell has faced since he first controversially launched the show, spinning off his new found superstar status on Pop Idol.
He returns, after having his Us version of the show flop and dumped, to find that The X Factor is no longer the dominant force in British television.
BBC One's Strictly Come Dancing now reigns supreme in the ratings war and the tabloids and British public seem more interested in melting frozen Alaskas and Mary Berry's opinion on soggy bottoms than his reunion with Cheryl Fernandez-Versini behind the judges' desk.
Series 11 of The X Factor is the biggest challenge that Cowell has faced since he first controversially launched the show, spinning off his new found superstar status on Pop Idol.
- 8/30/2014
- Digital Spy
The X Factor judge Louis Walsh has admitted that his infamous "little Lenny Henry" comment was "a bit stupid".
Walsh went down in X Factor history during the 2010 series when, speaking about Paije Richardson, he said: "You remind me of a little Lenny Henry."
However, he has now told Digital Spy that he has no idea why he made the remark.
"The [catchphrase] I don't know where it came from [is] 'You remind me of a young Lenny Henry'," he said. "I don't know where it came from but I said it, and it was a bit stupid but people liked it. I don't regret it. I have no regrets about anything."
Walsh, who suggested that the show will be "different and bigger" this year, insisted that all the judges get on well.
"That's the thing people don't realise," he said. "The girls really get on this year. We all get on well,...
Walsh went down in X Factor history during the 2010 series when, speaking about Paije Richardson, he said: "You remind me of a little Lenny Henry."
However, he has now told Digital Spy that he has no idea why he made the remark.
"The [catchphrase] I don't know where it came from [is] 'You remind me of a young Lenny Henry'," he said. "I don't know where it came from but I said it, and it was a bit stupid but people liked it. I don't regret it. I have no regrets about anything."
Walsh, who suggested that the show will be "different and bigger" this year, insisted that all the judges get on well.
"That's the thing people don't realise," he said. "The girls really get on this year. We all get on well,...
- 8/29/2014
- Digital Spy
The X Factor has helped launch the career of dozens of pop acts over the last decade. It has also given us Chico Time. You win some, you lose some.
Here is our definitive ranking of the 15 most ludicrous acts to ever grace Saturday nights on ITV.
15. Rylan
Rylan was already a regular on the reality TV circuit before The X Factor (he was a runner-up in the Sky Living monstrosity Signed By Katie Price), and he was a little bit more knowing and calculated than genuinely bonkers.
However, even if those floods of tears at Nicole Scherzinger's Judges' Houses were staged, they were staged brilliantly. The perfect I'm-mad-me contestant after a decade of near misses.
14. 2 Shoes
Charley Bird and Lucy Texeira were harmless and fairly innocuous as a pop duo. They spoke only in Essex slang ("Roll!") and insisted on calling each other "shoe", but the most ludicrous...
Here is our definitive ranking of the 15 most ludicrous acts to ever grace Saturday nights on ITV.
15. Rylan
Rylan was already a regular on the reality TV circuit before The X Factor (he was a runner-up in the Sky Living monstrosity Signed By Katie Price), and he was a little bit more knowing and calculated than genuinely bonkers.
However, even if those floods of tears at Nicole Scherzinger's Judges' Houses were staged, they were staged brilliantly. The perfect I'm-mad-me contestant after a decade of near misses.
14. 2 Shoes
Charley Bird and Lucy Texeira were harmless and fairly innocuous as a pop duo. They spoke only in Essex slang ("Roll!") and insisted on calling each other "shoe", but the most ludicrous...
- 8/27/2014
- Digital Spy
Matt Edmondson's brand new show TV Od kicked off last night - as he brought our attention to the best internet comments about our favourite telly. But is Matt really the man for the job? We wanted to test that by giving him some comments and getting him to guess the show. How well did he do? And can you guess the show from the comment?
1. Let's start with this."This programme makes girls look like right psychopaths" - @geerattt and "How do they not drown the f**kers" - @Chloe_Marie3x
"Is it Ex On The Beach?"
Yep!
"They don't make just girls look like right psychopaths, they make everyone look like psychopaths. They also make everyone look the same. It's like all the men are built from the same factory. But I love it. I'm obsessed with it. I think we might do Ex On The...
1. Let's start with this."This programme makes girls look like right psychopaths" - @geerattt and "How do they not drown the f**kers" - @Chloe_Marie3x
"Is it Ex On The Beach?"
Yep!
"They don't make just girls look like right psychopaths, they make everyone look like psychopaths. They also make everyone look the same. It's like all the men are built from the same factory. But I love it. I'm obsessed with it. I think we might do Ex On The...
- 6/6/2014
- Digital Spy
Matt Edmondson's brand new show TV Od kicked off last night - as he brought our attention to the best internet comments about our favourite telly. But is Matt really the man for the job? We wanted to test that by giving him some comments and getting him to guess the show. How well did he do? And can you guess the show from the comment?
1. Let's start with this."This programme makes girls look like right psychopaths" - @geerattt and "How do they not drown the f**kers" - @Chloe_Marie3x
"Is it Ex On The Beach?"
Yep!
"They don't make just girls look like right psychopaths, they make everyone look like psychopaths. They also make everyone look the same. It's like all the men are built from the same factory. But I love it. I'm obsessed with it. I think we might do Ex On The...
1. Let's start with this."This programme makes girls look like right psychopaths" - @geerattt and "How do they not drown the f**kers" - @Chloe_Marie3x
"Is it Ex On The Beach?"
Yep!
"They don't make just girls look like right psychopaths, they make everyone look like psychopaths. They also make everyone look the same. It's like all the men are built from the same factory. But I love it. I'm obsessed with it. I think we might do Ex On The...
- 6/6/2014
- Digital Spy
It was nervous and shellshocked Big Brother contestants who used to be told "it's all panto", but the phrase could just as easily apply to The X Factor. The singing behemoth has always been an over-the-top production, a ludicrous parade of contestants and a fantasy world of dance routines and sparkly outfits. To be honest, that's part of why we love it - it just wouldn't be as much fun without a bit of excess, would it? But it's also why The X Factor seems to lend itself to the exuberant world of the stage.
I Can't Sing! has been dogged by pre-opening night problems - cancelled shows, technical problems (understandable, given the truly impressive set) - but now that it's finally flung its doors open to the wider public, is it actually any good? Well, sometimes. But the first thing to know is that this is not your standard...
I Can't Sing! has been dogged by pre-opening night problems - cancelled shows, technical problems (understandable, given the truly impressive set) - but now that it's finally flung its doors open to the wider public, is it actually any good? Well, sometimes. But the first thing to know is that this is not your standard...
- 3/27/2014
- Digital Spy
Simon is back. Cheryl is back. Louis never went away in the first place. But who else could do an X Factor U-turn and try to rescue the show's faltering ratings?
If 2014 is going to be the year of the comeback on the ITV talent show, here are 6 more things that could potentially return to your autumn Saturday night TV schedule.
1. Gamu
Dumped by Cheryl for Katie 'sod it' Waissel in 2010, Gamu Nhengu's exit was, and always will be, a sore point for X Factor diehards. After being set up as a potential champion with her 'Walking on Sunshine' audition in the first show, there was a national outcry (well, we moaned about it a bit anyway) when she was axed. Gamu-gate and the hastag #bringbackGamu were born and we won't let them die until she gets a second chance.
2. Konnie Huq on The Xtra Factor
More awkward than...
If 2014 is going to be the year of the comeback on the ITV talent show, here are 6 more things that could potentially return to your autumn Saturday night TV schedule.
1. Gamu
Dumped by Cheryl for Katie 'sod it' Waissel in 2010, Gamu Nhengu's exit was, and always will be, a sore point for X Factor diehards. After being set up as a potential champion with her 'Walking on Sunshine' audition in the first show, there was a national outcry (well, we moaned about it a bit anyway) when she was axed. Gamu-gate and the hastag #bringbackGamu were born and we won't let them die until she gets a second chance.
2. Konnie Huq on The Xtra Factor
More awkward than...
- 3/11/2014
- Digital Spy
Way way back in August, James Arthur seemed like a pretty nice bloke, Busted and McFly were two separate entities and mugs weren't terrified of Huey Morgan.
A lot can change in four months. Who'd have thought that the two final acts standing on The X Factor 2013 would be a 36-year-old mum-of-two and a wee Scottish lad with as much charisma as Shane Filan?
But heck, you voted for 'em! So join Digital Spy for the final time from 7.30pm, as we kill time before Sam Bailey wins watch nervously to see whether Sam or Nicholas McDonald will be crowned your champion...
21:29Anyway, that's all, folks! Hope you enjoyed this series, and we'll be back at the same time, same place next year. Goodnight!
21:29Come 2014, we should try and remember that Bailey's isn't just for Christmas. Sam is talented and lovely enough to get a proper career outta this,...
A lot can change in four months. Who'd have thought that the two final acts standing on The X Factor 2013 would be a 36-year-old mum-of-two and a wee Scottish lad with as much charisma as Shane Filan?
But heck, you voted for 'em! So join Digital Spy for the final time from 7.30pm, as we kill time before Sam Bailey wins watch nervously to see whether Sam or Nicholas McDonald will be crowned your champion...
21:29Anyway, that's all, folks! Hope you enjoyed this series, and we'll be back at the same time, same place next year. Goodnight!
21:29Come 2014, we should try and remember that Bailey's isn't just for Christmas. Sam is talented and lovely enough to get a proper career outta this,...
- 12/15/2013
- Digital Spy
The X Factor's live final weekend kicked off this evening (December 14), as the remaining three acts took to the stage in a bid to progress through to tomorrow night's show.
Luke Friend finished in third place, meaning Sam Bailey and Nicholas McDonald will now go head-to-head to win this year's series.
Ellie Goulding, The Killers and Tom Odell performed in front of the crowd at Wembley Arena, while former X Factor acts Wagner, Rylan Clark, Jedward and more returned for a special medley.
If you missed out on tonight's drama or simply want to relive it, you can check out our live blog here.
The X Factor 2013 Live Final Part 1...
Luke Friend finished in third place, meaning Sam Bailey and Nicholas McDonald will now go head-to-head to win this year's series.
Ellie Goulding, The Killers and Tom Odell performed in front of the crowd at Wembley Arena, while former X Factor acts Wagner, Rylan Clark, Jedward and more returned for a special medley.
If you missed out on tonight's drama or simply want to relive it, you can check out our live blog here.
The X Factor 2013 Live Final Part 1...
- 12/14/2013
- Digital Spy
The X Factor's live final weekend kicked off this evening (December 14), as the remaining three acts took to the stage in a bid to progress through to tomorrow night's show.
Luke Friend finished in third place, meaning Sam Bailey and Nicholas McDonald will now go head-to-head to win this year's series.
Ellie Goulding, The Killers and Tom Odell performed their hits in front of the crowd at Wembley Arena, while former X Factor acts Wagner, Rylan Clark, Jedward and more returned for a special medley.
If you missed out on tonight's drama or simply want to relive it, you can check out our live blog here.
The X Factor 2013 Live Final Part 1...
Luke Friend finished in third place, meaning Sam Bailey and Nicholas McDonald will now go head-to-head to win this year's series.
Ellie Goulding, The Killers and Tom Odell performed their hits in front of the crowd at Wembley Arena, while former X Factor acts Wagner, Rylan Clark, Jedward and more returned for a special medley.
If you missed out on tonight's drama or simply want to relive it, you can check out our live blog here.
The X Factor 2013 Live Final Part 1...
- 12/14/2013
- Digital Spy
The X Factor final two have been revealed.
Luke Friend was eliminated from the competition at the end of tonight's (December 14) live show, meaning that Sam Bailey and Nicholas McDonald will now go head-to-head in a bid to be crowned this year's winner.
Asked by Dermot O'Leary how he felt making it to the final, Luke said: "It was actually really mental. I know everyone thought I was the underdog sometimes, but I got here!
"This is absolutely amazing, I mean I'm going to keep writing music and doing something I love. I'm going to write music for you guys."
Louis Walsh added: "He's got something unique; he's going to have an amazing career. Watch this space."
Luke thanked Walsh for his support as mentor, saying: "I just love you so much, man. You've been a great mentor. Thank you, thank you."
The final three performed two songs each to...
Luke Friend was eliminated from the competition at the end of tonight's (December 14) live show, meaning that Sam Bailey and Nicholas McDonald will now go head-to-head in a bid to be crowned this year's winner.
Asked by Dermot O'Leary how he felt making it to the final, Luke said: "It was actually really mental. I know everyone thought I was the underdog sometimes, but I got here!
"This is absolutely amazing, I mean I'm going to keep writing music and doing something I love. I'm going to write music for you guys."
Louis Walsh added: "He's got something unique; he's going to have an amazing career. Watch this space."
Luke thanked Walsh for his support as mentor, saying: "I just love you so much, man. You've been a great mentor. Thank you, thank you."
The final three performed two songs each to...
- 12/14/2013
- Digital Spy
The X Factor final two have been revealed.
Luke Friend was eliminated from the competition at the end of tonight's (December 14) live show, meaning that Sam Bailey and Nicholas McDonald will now go head-to-head in a bid to be crowned this year's winner.
Asked by Dermot O'Leary about how he felt making it to the final, Luke said: "It was actually really mental. I know everyone thought I was the underdog sometimes, but I got here!
"This is absolutely amazing, I mean I'm going to keep writing music and doing something I love. I'm going to write music for you guys."
Louis Walsh added: "He's got something unique; he's going to have an amazing career. Watch this space."
Luke thanked Walsh for his support as mentor, saying: "I just love you so much, man. You've been a great mentor. Thank you, thank you."
The final three performed two songs each...
Luke Friend was eliminated from the competition at the end of tonight's (December 14) live show, meaning that Sam Bailey and Nicholas McDonald will now go head-to-head in a bid to be crowned this year's winner.
Asked by Dermot O'Leary about how he felt making it to the final, Luke said: "It was actually really mental. I know everyone thought I was the underdog sometimes, but I got here!
"This is absolutely amazing, I mean I'm going to keep writing music and doing something I love. I'm going to write music for you guys."
Louis Walsh added: "He's got something unique; he's going to have an amazing career. Watch this space."
Luke thanked Walsh for his support as mentor, saying: "I just love you so much, man. You've been a great mentor. Thank you, thank you."
The final three performed two songs each...
- 12/14/2013
- Digital Spy
The X Factor Grand Final is this weekend. *Pulls party poppers, gets out Wagner bongos, does Rough Copy dance.*
Sam Bailey, Nicholas McDonald and Luke Friend are battling for the title, there are rumours of Wagner making an appearance and there's also the possibility that Louis Walsh may spontaneously combust with glee if one of his boys wins. So it's well worth a watch.
In case you haven't been keeping up with the series (tut tut), here's a Bluffer's Guide to the Final 3.
Luke Friend
Age: 17.
Distinguishing features: A head of hair that looks like it might smell of gravy and could possibly be housing a flock of pigeons.
Cringeworthy Louis Walsh moment: "You're like a little Johnny Depp."
Best Moment:
Sob story: He was a busker in Devon six months ago. And he's been mentored by Louis Walsh for the last three months. Give the guy a break.
Debut album will be.
Sam Bailey, Nicholas McDonald and Luke Friend are battling for the title, there are rumours of Wagner making an appearance and there's also the possibility that Louis Walsh may spontaneously combust with glee if one of his boys wins. So it's well worth a watch.
In case you haven't been keeping up with the series (tut tut), here's a Bluffer's Guide to the Final 3.
Luke Friend
Age: 17.
Distinguishing features: A head of hair that looks like it might smell of gravy and could possibly be housing a flock of pigeons.
Cringeworthy Louis Walsh moment: "You're like a little Johnny Depp."
Best Moment:
Sob story: He was a busker in Devon six months ago. And he's been mentored by Louis Walsh for the last three months. Give the guy a break.
Debut album will be.
- 12/13/2013
- Digital Spy
Wagner and Rylan Clark have been tipped to make a return to The X Factor for this year's live final.
According to newspaper reports including The Sun's, some of the show's most flamboyant acts are being lined up to perform together as part of its 10th anniversary celebrations.
Kitty Brucknell, Diva Fever and 2 Shoes have also been named as potential returnees.
Digital Spy has spoken to some of the acts involved, who have strongly hinted at their involvement.
An X Factor source told DS that while "nothing is confirmed yet", producers are "hoping to get some former acts to return".
The X Factor's 2013 final takes place on the weekend of December 14 on ITV.
This year's X Factor winner's single will raise for money Great Ormond Street Hospital Children's Charity and Together For Short Lives, and will be released digitally after the final on December 15.
According to newspaper reports including The Sun's, some of the show's most flamboyant acts are being lined up to perform together as part of its 10th anniversary celebrations.
Kitty Brucknell, Diva Fever and 2 Shoes have also been named as potential returnees.
Digital Spy has spoken to some of the acts involved, who have strongly hinted at their involvement.
An X Factor source told DS that while "nothing is confirmed yet", producers are "hoping to get some former acts to return".
The X Factor's 2013 final takes place on the weekend of December 14 on ITV.
This year's X Factor winner's single will raise for money Great Ormond Street Hospital Children's Charity and Together For Short Lives, and will be released digitally after the final on December 15.
- 11/29/2013
- Digital Spy
ITV bosses are bringing back former joke acts for the 'X Factor' finale. Fan favourites including Wagner, Rylan Clark, Two Shoes and Kitty Brucknell - better known for their wild onstage antics and larger-than-life personalities than their singing - will reportedly return for a group number during this year's live final on December 15. A source told The Sun newspaper: ''Seeing Wagner, Kitty and Rylan back on the stage where they found fame will be a massive treat for viewers. It's a great way to help mark The X Factor's 10th birthday.'' Meanwhile, Louis Walsh has revealed his fellow judge Sharon Osbourne is...
- 11/29/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
Harry Hill has confessed to Digital Spy that he was "worried" Simon Cowell would heavily censor his X Factor musical.
The comedian said before the Royal Variety Performance yesterday (November 25) that Cowell has "done the decent thing" and not meddled with the West End production.
"He's done the decent thing and let us get on with it," Hill revealed. "We had a few meetings early on, then he came to the workshop and he just said, 'Fine, great, carry on'.
"I was worried about that aspect. I thought, 'Oh maybe he's going to fiddle with it all the time'. But it's served us well because he's stuck in America, basically.
"He has been incredibly supportive. He's been our number one supporter and he'll be there on opening night with all his showbiz pals."
Asked if he is worried about I Can't Sing's chances of success in the West End, Hill...
The comedian said before the Royal Variety Performance yesterday (November 25) that Cowell has "done the decent thing" and not meddled with the West End production.
"He's done the decent thing and let us get on with it," Hill revealed. "We had a few meetings early on, then he came to the workshop and he just said, 'Fine, great, carry on'.
"I was worried about that aspect. I thought, 'Oh maybe he's going to fiddle with it all the time'. But it's served us well because he's stuck in America, basically.
"He has been incredibly supportive. He's been our number one supporter and he'll be there on opening night with all his showbiz pals."
Asked if he is worried about I Can't Sing's chances of success in the West End, Hill...
- 11/26/2013
- Digital Spy
It's not just Doctor Who's birthday this weekend - The X Factor is celebrating its tenth anniversary on Saturday and Sunday. Now, here at Digital Spy, we're never one to miss a party, so we strapped on some hats, got stuck into some jelly and ice cream and then sat down for a nice little nostalgia-fest about our favourite X Factor moments from the past decade. Join us as we reminisce about times gone by...
Simon Reynolds (Movies Editor) - Gummogate
My favourite X Factor moment has to be 'Gummogate', a kerfuffle that saw Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh quarrelling over American independent cinema. Jamie Archer's rendition of 'Crying' during 2009's Movie Week (c'mon, Simon, have you *really* seen that film?) irked Louis so much he seemed to question the very existence of Harmony Korine's cult oddity. This all leads to the question... has Louis seen Spring Breakers?...
Simon Reynolds (Movies Editor) - Gummogate
My favourite X Factor moment has to be 'Gummogate', a kerfuffle that saw Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh quarrelling over American independent cinema. Jamie Archer's rendition of 'Crying' during 2009's Movie Week (c'mon, Simon, have you *really* seen that film?) irked Louis so much he seemed to question the very existence of Harmony Korine's cult oddity. This all leads to the question... has Louis seen Spring Breakers?...
- 11/22/2013
- Digital Spy
D.I.S.C.O!
In a suitably woolly theme, The X Factor is pulling on its legwarmers and scrunchies for 'Disco Week'.
And after a peep at the song sheet, that seems to translate as 'Any song from the 1970s-90s with a funky tune'. Where's Louis' little rule book when you need it?
So join Digital Spy from 8pm as we pop open a Wkd and get into the groove for the fourth live show...
21:47Don't forget to leave your comments at the bottom of the page, and join us back here at 8pm tomorrow night to see who will be hanging up their platform booties. Night, all!
21:46Time to put your lycra away, that's the end of Disco Week! Who do you think will be dancefloor champ, and who will be left sweeping up the party poppers at the end of the night? That's...
In a suitably woolly theme, The X Factor is pulling on its legwarmers and scrunchies for 'Disco Week'.
And after a peep at the song sheet, that seems to translate as 'Any song from the 1970s-90s with a funky tune'. Where's Louis' little rule book when you need it?
So join Digital Spy from 8pm as we pop open a Wkd and get into the groove for the fourth live show...
21:47Don't forget to leave your comments at the bottom of the page, and join us back here at 8pm tomorrow night to see who will be hanging up their platform booties. Night, all!
21:46Time to put your lycra away, that's the end of Disco Week! Who do you think will be dancefloor champ, and who will be left sweeping up the party poppers at the end of the night? That's...
- 11/2/2013
- Digital Spy
With the release of the Paul Potts movie and news that Susan Boyle will soon be immortalised on film too, here are the reality TV biopics we'd really like to see
The future of cinema is here, and it's got lots of films about TV talent show contestants in it. Following One Chance, the surprisingly well-received biopic of Britain's Got Talent winner Paul Potts, plans are now afoot to make a similar film about Susan Boyle.
This shouldn't come as a shock to anyone. After all, they're both stories about plucky down-on-their-luck everypeople who dared to dream and finally made it big. It's the same story as Rocky, or The Karate Kid, or 8 Mile, but with faux-operatic wailing and Amanda Holden instead of rap battles and Mr Miyagi. The stories of Potts and Boyle couldn't be any more cinematic if they tried.
So now the floodgates are open. The race...
The future of cinema is here, and it's got lots of films about TV talent show contestants in it. Following One Chance, the surprisingly well-received biopic of Britain's Got Talent winner Paul Potts, plans are now afoot to make a similar film about Susan Boyle.
This shouldn't come as a shock to anyone. After all, they're both stories about plucky down-on-their-luck everypeople who dared to dream and finally made it big. It's the same story as Rocky, or The Karate Kid, or 8 Mile, but with faux-operatic wailing and Amanda Holden instead of rap battles and Mr Miyagi. The stories of Potts and Boyle couldn't be any more cinematic if they tried.
So now the floodgates are open. The race...
- 10/29/2013
- by Stuart Heritage
- The Guardian - Film News
The X Factor has been chewing acts up and spitting them out for years, so I'm always hesitant about any feelings of outrage or anger I have towards the way the show treats contestants.
You can't sit back and laugh at Wagner one year and then complain that some old dear is being turned into a laughing stock the next. The show can be cruel for those taking part, brutal for those who don't make the grade, and its fickleness is nothing compared to the harsh realities of the music industry.
However, the argument that 'the music industry is meaner' fell apart this week. Yes, the music industry drops acts. Yes, the music industry dumps people who are great. And yes, it dumps on people, who have been told they're great and that their music is more beautiful than a naked supermodel smothered in melted chocolate.
But I refuse to...
You can't sit back and laugh at Wagner one year and then complain that some old dear is being turned into a laughing stock the next. The show can be cruel for those taking part, brutal for those who don't make the grade, and its fickleness is nothing compared to the harsh realities of the music industry.
However, the argument that 'the music industry is meaner' fell apart this week. Yes, the music industry drops acts. Yes, the music industry dumps people who are great. And yes, it dumps on people, who have been told they're great and that their music is more beautiful than a naked supermodel smothered in melted chocolate.
But I refuse to...
- 9/28/2013
- Digital Spy
I can't be the only person who thinks the X Factor's doubled-up 'super-size' auditions aren't working.
Everything you need from an X Factor audition comes on Saturday night. Emotional stories, weeping judges, silly acts, powerful performances. And then along comes Sunday. With the same acts. And the same stories.
Even when there is a twist in the tale, such as likeable bus driver James Macdonald getting the boot on Sunday night, it feels slightly odd and hypocritical of the judges.
On Saturday, a tearful James was praised by Gary Barlow for understanding how important an opportunity The X Factor can be. On Sunday, he was booted out by Gary Barlow for lacking star power and not cutting the mustard. What changed?
Thankfully, The X Factor judges didn't offer him the Bullseye consolation prize of a Bfh (bus fare home). That would have just been rubbing it in.
A double...
Everything you need from an X Factor audition comes on Saturday night. Emotional stories, weeping judges, silly acts, powerful performances. And then along comes Sunday. With the same acts. And the same stories.
Even when there is a twist in the tale, such as likeable bus driver James Macdonald getting the boot on Sunday night, it feels slightly odd and hypocritical of the judges.
On Saturday, a tearful James was praised by Gary Barlow for understanding how important an opportunity The X Factor can be. On Sunday, he was booted out by Gary Barlow for lacking star power and not cutting the mustard. What changed?
Thankfully, The X Factor judges didn't offer him the Bullseye consolation prize of a Bfh (bus fare home). That would have just been rubbing it in.
A double...
- 9/16/2013
- Digital Spy
Something strange is in the air in X Factor land. Sharon Osbourne claims that she's only signed up for one year. Gary Barlow has big plans for Take That in 2014. And now, X Factor's most loyal servant, the man who has survived '182 X Factor Fix Scandals' and whose blossoming hair remains one of the biggest mysteries since the Bermuda Triangle, Louis Walsh, has announced that series ten will be his last.
Of course, it may all be a coincidence. Judges change on X Factor as quickly as Simon Cowell switches girlfriends.
And plenty of viewers will agree with Louis Walsh's decision that ten years of him cobbling together boybands and playing the fool at the end of the judges' table is more than enough Louis Walsh to last the nation a lifetime.
However, there does feel like there's something more to all of this than the usual...
Of course, it may all be a coincidence. Judges change on X Factor as quickly as Simon Cowell switches girlfriends.
And plenty of viewers will agree with Louis Walsh's decision that ten years of him cobbling together boybands and playing the fool at the end of the judges' table is more than enough Louis Walsh to last the nation a lifetime.
However, there does feel like there's something more to all of this than the usual...
- 8/6/2013
- Digital Spy
Quitting live on air during Dermot O'Leary's first show. Chucking water over Louis. Bickering with Simon. Bitching about contestants. Those evil icy glares at Dannii Minogue.
There really never was a dull moment when Sharon Osbourne was around on The X Factor.
So we're chuffed to bits at Digital Spy at the news that Mrs O is going to be back on the judging panel for series 10. To celebrate, we've picked out our six favourite moments of Shazza madness.
The one where Sharon went mental and couldn't stop laughing...
The one where Sharon quits on the live results show...
The one where Sharon Osbourne ruins Steve Brookstein's career...
The one where she walks into a door (1:10)
The one where she falls in love with Wagner....
The one where she gave Louis a quick shower...
What is your favourite Sharon Osbourne X Factor moment? Let us know below.
There really never was a dull moment when Sharon Osbourne was around on The X Factor.
So we're chuffed to bits at Digital Spy at the news that Mrs O is going to be back on the judging panel for series 10. To celebrate, we've picked out our six favourite moments of Shazza madness.
The one where Sharon went mental and couldn't stop laughing...
The one where Sharon quits on the live results show...
The one where Sharon Osbourne ruins Steve Brookstein's career...
The one where she walks into a door (1:10)
The one where she falls in love with Wagner....
The one where she gave Louis a quick shower...
What is your favourite Sharon Osbourne X Factor moment? Let us know below.
- 5/22/2013
- Digital Spy
Rebecca Ferguson has said that The X Factor needs entertainment acts. The singer - who came second in the 2010 series of the show - insisted that the programme would become "too serious" if there weren't any fun performers in the live finals.
"I remember at the time I was on the show, people gave Wagner a really hard time," Ferguson told Digital Spy. "I just loved him - he didn't bother me at all. "People were like, 'It's about the music', and I was just like, 'He's having a ball!' He's up there dancing away and has all kinds of gorgeous girls around him and I was just like, 'He's having fun'. "At the time when I was on the (more)...
"I remember at the time I was on the show, people gave Wagner a really hard time," Ferguson told Digital Spy. "I just loved him - he didn't bother me at all. "People were like, 'It's about the music', and I was just like, 'He's having a ball!' He's up there dancing away and has all kinds of gorgeous girls around him and I was just like, 'He's having fun'. "At the time when I was on the (more)...
- 10/18/2012
- by By Lewis Corner
- Digital Spy
Louis Walsh has hit back at Gary Barlow's suggestion that Walsh had made the Overs category "a joke" on The X Factor. When Walsh has mentored the Overs, he has brought acts such as Wagner, Johnny Robinson, Kitty Brucknell and Tesco Mary to the Live Shows. Speaking earlier this week, the Take That star claimed that he wanted to bring some seriousness and credibility to the Overs this year. Commenting on Barlow's remark, Walsh said: "Gary is new to this business, what does he know? "I've been doing it for nine years. I know more about it than he does. I always work really hard (more)...
- 10/5/2012
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Caroline Flack has said that she was disappointed Goldie Cheung decided to pull out of The X Factor. The Tai Chi instructor quit the competition after Louis Walsh chose her as one of his four finalists for the live shows. The 49-year-old was allegedly unhappy with being seen as a 'joke' act. "Oh man, that was a real shame," Xtra Factor presenter Flack said of Cheung's decision. "I loved Goldie! She was loads of fun and I was looking forward to her big Wagner-style performances." Discussing (more)...
- 10/3/2011
- by By Ryan Love
- Digital Spy
Honesty is the best policy when it comes to reality TV, says Simon Cowell — and that’s a rule he’s applying to Fox’s hotly anticipated singing competition The X Factor. “You’ve got to say what you think,” Cowell said in a conference call with television reporters this afternoon. “It doesn’t always make you comfortable when you watch it back [on TV], but it definitely makes the show more honest.”
That unflinching commitment to keeping it real even applies to airing what Cowell describes as a “childish meltdown” he had during a particularly frustrating string of callback auditions — a...
That unflinching commitment to keeping it real even applies to airing what Cowell describes as a “childish meltdown” he had during a particularly frustrating string of callback auditions — a...
- 9/14/2011
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
Goldie Cheung is due to make her X Factor debut this weekend and while we don’t want to give too much away about her audition, we can reveal that there will be vomit and lots of shimmying.
The 48 year old singer (though how she can call herself that with a straight face is beyond us!) seemed to scare the judges with her wailing, her gyrating and crotch baring, however it’s the backstage puking that seems to get to presenter Dermot O’Leary the most.
After doing a bit of online research on the Hong Kong born Tai Chi instructor (ok, we just googled her!) we discovered that Goldie is quite the attention seeker.
She’s appeared on lots of talent contests before, including the Chinese “Minutes to Fame” competition, the Hong Kong International Competition, the Glasgow European Competition. She has also appeared at the Newsham Festival Liverpool and...
The 48 year old singer (though how she can call herself that with a straight face is beyond us!) seemed to scare the judges with her wailing, her gyrating and crotch baring, however it’s the backstage puking that seems to get to presenter Dermot O’Leary the most.
After doing a bit of online research on the Hong Kong born Tai Chi instructor (ok, we just googled her!) we discovered that Goldie is quite the attention seeker.
She’s appeared on lots of talent contests before, including the Chinese “Minutes to Fame” competition, the Hong Kong International Competition, the Glasgow European Competition. She has also appeared at the Newsham Festival Liverpool and...
- 8/18/2011
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
Simon Cowell has reportedly sacked Grace Woodward as stylist on The X Factor.
Britain & Ireland’s Next Top Model judge was in charge of styling and dressing all contestants on last year’s series of the ITV show, however after many complaints were received about her wacky outfit choices, the music mogul is said to have axed the bespectacled beauty from this year’s team.
Grace, who also fronts fashion show Chick Fix on Sky Living, was responsible for Katie Waissel’s helmet, Wagner’s tight pants and Matt Cardle’s garish yellow trousers, so we’re not that surprised that Cowell found her too edgy for his hit TV show.
A show source told The Mirror:
“Simon wasn’t always a fan of Grace’s styling and they’ve decided to look for someone else. The feeling was they wanted more of a household name.”
Simon hit out at...
Britain & Ireland’s Next Top Model judge was in charge of styling and dressing all contestants on last year’s series of the ITV show, however after many complaints were received about her wacky outfit choices, the music mogul is said to have axed the bespectacled beauty from this year’s team.
Grace, who also fronts fashion show Chick Fix on Sky Living, was responsible for Katie Waissel’s helmet, Wagner’s tight pants and Matt Cardle’s garish yellow trousers, so we’re not that surprised that Cowell found her too edgy for his hit TV show.
A show source told The Mirror:
“Simon wasn’t always a fan of Grace’s styling and they’ve decided to look for someone else. The feeling was they wanted more of a household name.”
Simon hit out at...
- 8/11/2011
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
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