In 2012, Lucy Spraggan was a 20-year-old breakout star on the British version of “The X Factor”. Then, out of nowhere, she was gone. For years and years, people wondered why a star contestant on a show that’s produced hitmakers — like One Direction — would vanish without so much as an explanation.
Now, for the first time, Spraggan’s revealing the reason why she dropped out of the singing competition, telling The Guardian that she was raped by a hotel employee after a night out celebrating a friend and fellow contestant’s 25th birthday.
Spraggan, 31, said she passed out drunk at the open-bar shindig that was also attended by “X Factor” crew members, one of whom escorted Spraggan back to the hotel. Once at the hotel, a hotel employee offered to help get her to her room.
“As they left, the [hotel] porter flipped the security latch on her door to prevent it locking behind them,...
Now, for the first time, Spraggan’s revealing the reason why she dropped out of the singing competition, telling The Guardian that she was raped by a hotel employee after a night out celebrating a friend and fellow contestant’s 25th birthday.
Spraggan, 31, said she passed out drunk at the open-bar shindig that was also attended by “X Factor” crew members, one of whom escorted Spraggan back to the hotel. Once at the hotel, a hotel employee offered to help get her to her room.
“As they left, the [hotel] porter flipped the security latch on her door to prevent it locking behind them,...
- 7/15/2023
- by Brent Furdyk
- ET Canada
British former X Factor contestant Lucy Spraggan has revealed that she was a victim of rape during her time on the show in 2012.
At the time, viewers were only told that Spraggan – one of the favourites to win the series – had suddenly left the competition due to illness. Now, on the eve of the publication of her memoir, Spraggan has told The Guardian newspaper that she was actually attacked at night in her hotel room, where she was staying during her participation in the TV talent contest.
Spraggan has detailed the incident, which came after a drunken night out in London with other contestants. After a hotel porter had helped her into her room and she passed out, the same porter returned and raped her. He was later traced by his keycard record and given a ten-year jail sentence at trial the following year.
At the time, Spraggan’s name...
At the time, viewers were only told that Spraggan – one of the favourites to win the series – had suddenly left the competition due to illness. Now, on the eve of the publication of her memoir, Spraggan has told The Guardian newspaper that she was actually attacked at night in her hotel room, where she was staying during her participation in the TV talent contest.
Spraggan has detailed the incident, which came after a drunken night out in London with other contestants. After a hotel porter had helped her into her room and she passed out, the same porter returned and raped her. He was later traced by his keycard record and given a ten-year jail sentence at trial the following year.
At the time, Spraggan’s name...
- 7/15/2023
- by Caroline Frost
- Deadline Film + TV
Cheryl is still famous enough not to need a surname. On the poster for 2:22 A Ghost Story, the spooky hit play in which the singer formerly known as Tweedy, Cole and Fernandez-Versini is about to make her West End debut, she is billed simply and definitively as “Cheryl”. The 39-year-old has been using the mononym for so long now – since her 2012 solo hit “Call My Name” – that she didn’t even think about it until she saw her name on the Lyric Theatre’s marquee. “I was like, I guess that’s what it is then,” she says in the warm Geordie accent familiar from her judge’s critiques on The X Factor.
She has maintained a low profile in recent years. In the late Noughties, when she juggled The X Factor with a hugely successful music career – first as a member of Girls Aloud and then as a...
She has maintained a low profile in recent years. In the late Noughties, when she juggled The X Factor with a hugely successful music career – first as a member of Girls Aloud and then as a...
- 1/21/2023
- by Nick Levine
- The Independent - Music
Simon Cowell has given some insight into the possible future of The X Factor.
The music executive created the long-running talent competition in 2004 and sat as a judge and mentor for 12 of its 15 seasons.
However, the show went on an indefinite hiatus after its 2018 season, and was cancelled officially in 2021.
Despite this, fans of The X Factor have been holding out hope for its eventual return.
Cowell appeared on Wednesday’s edition (14 December) of This Morning alongside former contestant Lucy Spraggan, and spoke about the programme’s enduring popularity.
“People keep asking me about the show – ‘are you going to bring it back?’” he began, before pointing out the prevalence of new music in the age of social media and streaming. “100,000 new songs are uploaded every day at the moment.
“It’s good but it’s also difficult. I believe you’ve got to get to know somebody.”
Cowell then...
The music executive created the long-running talent competition in 2004 and sat as a judge and mentor for 12 of its 15 seasons.
However, the show went on an indefinite hiatus after its 2018 season, and was cancelled officially in 2021.
Despite this, fans of The X Factor have been holding out hope for its eventual return.
Cowell appeared on Wednesday’s edition (14 December) of This Morning alongside former contestant Lucy Spraggan, and spoke about the programme’s enduring popularity.
“People keep asking me about the show – ‘are you going to bring it back?’” he began, before pointing out the prevalence of new music in the age of social media and streaming. “100,000 new songs are uploaded every day at the moment.
“It’s good but it’s also difficult. I believe you’ve got to get to know somebody.”
Cowell then...
- 12/14/2022
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - TV
Melissa Etheridge has announced that she will be joined by Jewel on the upcoming voyage of the Melissa Etheridge Cruise IV, setting sail fall 2021.
Aboard the Norwegian Pearl cruise ship, the duo and their guests will hit the high seas from November 12th through 18th, 2021, sailing from Miami to Great Stirrup Cay, Ocho Rios, and Nassau. Guests will be able to partake in various activities, including two exclusive performances by Etheridge, a photo op with Etheridge, collaborative sets from Etheridge and Jewel, a variety of shows from supporting acts and more.
Aboard the Norwegian Pearl cruise ship, the duo and their guests will hit the high seas from November 12th through 18th, 2021, sailing from Miami to Great Stirrup Cay, Ocho Rios, and Nassau. Guests will be able to partake in various activities, including two exclusive performances by Etheridge, a photo op with Etheridge, collaborative sets from Etheridge and Jewel, a variety of shows from supporting acts and more.
- 10/6/2020
- by Claire Shaffer
- Rollingstone.com
The X Factor has been honoured with the Media Recognition Award at this year's Attitude Awards.
The accolade was given to the ITV series for "proudly showcas[ing] many talented Lgbt singers" during its 10-year run.
"The likes of Joe McElderry, Lucy Spraggan, Rylan Clark, Jaymi Hensley and, erm, Diva Fever have all been welcomed into viewers' hearts during The X Factor's 10-year run, and the show's contribution to Lgbt visibility shouldn't be underestimated," Attitude said.
"As well as new judge Nick Grimshaw, the current series has already thrown up a handful of varied Lgbt talent including the very unique Seann Miley Moore, who auditioned in a leather skirt and admitted, 'Music has allowed me to be me. If it makes you feel happy and right, then do it'. Amen!"
In other X Factor news, it has been announced that controversial contestant Mason Noise will return to the show to replace Tom Bleasby,...
The accolade was given to the ITV series for "proudly showcas[ing] many talented Lgbt singers" during its 10-year run.
"The likes of Joe McElderry, Lucy Spraggan, Rylan Clark, Jaymi Hensley and, erm, Diva Fever have all been welcomed into viewers' hearts during The X Factor's 10-year run, and the show's contribution to Lgbt visibility shouldn't be underestimated," Attitude said.
"As well as new judge Nick Grimshaw, the current series has already thrown up a handful of varied Lgbt talent including the very unique Seann Miley Moore, who auditioned in a leather skirt and admitted, 'Music has allowed me to be me. If it makes you feel happy and right, then do it'. Amen!"
In other X Factor news, it has been announced that controversial contestant Mason Noise will return to the show to replace Tom Bleasby,...
- 10/15/2015
- Digital Spy
It feels like only yesterday that Gemma Collins was crying mascara stained tears while complaining of contracting malaria - but this year's I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here is now just a mere month away.
Last year's series saw Carl Fogarty crowned King of the Jungle. But which stars will be enduring the Australian kangaroo anus-eating adventures on the ITV show this year? Here's the rumoured line-up so far:
Stephanie Davis
Who? Former Hollyoaks actress who was recently axed due to being "unfit to work because of alcohol consumption".
The rumour: The 22-year-old is reportedly "hot property" as a number of reality shows try to sign her up, according to The Mirror's unnamed insider. The star - who played Sinead O'Conner for five years in the Channel 4 soap - is no stranger to TV competitions, previously taking part in Over the Rainbow - a BBC One talent...
Last year's series saw Carl Fogarty crowned King of the Jungle. But which stars will be enduring the Australian kangaroo anus-eating adventures on the ITV show this year? Here's the rumoured line-up so far:
Stephanie Davis
Who? Former Hollyoaks actress who was recently axed due to being "unfit to work because of alcohol consumption".
The rumour: The 22-year-old is reportedly "hot property" as a number of reality shows try to sign her up, according to The Mirror's unnamed insider. The star - who played Sinead O'Conner for five years in the Channel 4 soap - is no stranger to TV competitions, previously taking part in Over the Rainbow - a BBC One talent...
- 10/6/2015
- Digital Spy
The X Factor alum Lucy Spraggan has described her fellow contestant James Arthur as a "tw*t".
The pair famously fell out after the show when Spraggan confronted Arthur about his use of homophobic lyrics, and she has now revealed that he never apologised - claiming that their shared PR agency posted a statement on her Facebook page which attempted to call an end to the row.
"In reality he was massively in the wrong, calling me all sorts of names," Spraggan told the Birmingham Mail. "I got to the point where if he carried on doing this to me there is not much I can say back.
"Yes, I am a gay rights activist, and somebody has got to be taken down a peg if they speak to people in that way."
Spraggan added: "There is only so much damage you can cover up. I will always defend that what he said was wrong.
The pair famously fell out after the show when Spraggan confronted Arthur about his use of homophobic lyrics, and she has now revealed that he never apologised - claiming that their shared PR agency posted a statement on her Facebook page which attempted to call an end to the row.
"In reality he was massively in the wrong, calling me all sorts of names," Spraggan told the Birmingham Mail. "I got to the point where if he carried on doing this to me there is not much I can say back.
"Yes, I am a gay rights activist, and somebody has got to be taken down a peg if they speak to people in that way."
Spraggan added: "There is only so much damage you can cover up. I will always defend that what he said was wrong.
- 11/6/2014
- Digital Spy
After Overload's plucky performance of their happy-go-lucky 'No, No, No' on Sunday's X Factor, we got all nostalgic. We started thinking about all the times an artist has taken the viewer a little bit by surprise and treated us to their own work; shown us little sparks of original songwriting talent in the creative vacuum that can be The X Factor.
Digital Spy looks back at the best five original tracks from over the years, celebrating the acts that had the conviction to eschew the safe, insipid versions of 'One', 'Feeling Good', 'Fast Car' et al and performed original songs on TV's most intimidating, unforgiving talent show.
5. Overload - 'No, No, No'
We've had a few original songs already this year, like party girl Ten Senah's fiery '15 Minutes', but Overload have been an early series highlight, and so 'No, No, No' is straight in at number five.
Digital Spy looks back at the best five original tracks from over the years, celebrating the acts that had the conviction to eschew the safe, insipid versions of 'One', 'Feeling Good', 'Fast Car' et al and performed original songs on TV's most intimidating, unforgiving talent show.
5. Overload - 'No, No, No'
We've had a few original songs already this year, like party girl Ten Senah's fiery '15 Minutes', but Overload have been an early series highlight, and so 'No, No, No' is straight in at number five.
- 9/16/2014
- Digital Spy
London, April 7: Singer James Arthur has been fired by music mogul Simon Cowell for lyrics which appear to glorify terrorism.
The "X Factor" winner's new song had a disturbing line: "I am going to blow your family up like I am a terrorist", which according to Cowell was not acceptable.
The 26-year-old singer has been kicked off Cowell's Syco label after recording just one album, reports mirror.co.uk.
Arthur took to Twitter to express his anguish.
He tweeted: "@SimonCowell I should 'shut up and put out records or else this?"
Arther was previously accused of homophobia by his former friend Lucy Spraggan.
The "X Factor" winner's new song had a disturbing line: "I am going to blow your family up like I am a terrorist", which according to Cowell was not acceptable.
The 26-year-old singer has been kicked off Cowell's Syco label after recording just one album, reports mirror.co.uk.
Arthur took to Twitter to express his anguish.
He tweeted: "@SimonCowell I should 'shut up and put out records or else this?"
Arther was previously accused of homophobia by his former friend Lucy Spraggan.
- 4/7/2014
- by Shiva Prakash
- RealBollywood.com
Heard something inflammatory and outrageous this year? Odds are one of this lot said it. So in a head head-to-head contest, who's the most horrible troll of them all?
Don't feed the trolls. That's rule number one of the internet. When you're confronted with someone who enjoys deliberately making unnecessarily inflammatory statements, the best course of action is to deny them the emotional response they crave. Everyone knows that.
But, oh, it's hard. Especially when, as this year has proved, some people can actually make a pretty good living from being a troll. We've picked eight of the most recognisable – some politicians, some entertainers, some only known for how unremittingly awful they are – and pitted them against each other to find our Troll of the Year. So, yes, we're feeding the trolls. But at least we're feeding them to each other.
The contenders
Richard Dawkins Evolutionary biologist, 72. Favoured targets: Christians,...
Don't feed the trolls. That's rule number one of the internet. When you're confronted with someone who enjoys deliberately making unnecessarily inflammatory statements, the best course of action is to deny them the emotional response they crave. Everyone knows that.
But, oh, it's hard. Especially when, as this year has proved, some people can actually make a pretty good living from being a troll. We've picked eight of the most recognisable – some politicians, some entertainers, some only known for how unremittingly awful they are – and pitted them against each other to find our Troll of the Year. So, yes, we're feeding the trolls. But at least we're feeding them to each other.
The contenders
Richard Dawkins Evolutionary biologist, 72. Favoured targets: Christians,...
- 12/30/2013
- by Stuart Heritage
- The Guardian - Film News
Louis Walsh has hit out at James Arthur, saying that he should be more "grateful".
The 61-year-old X Factor judge added to Ok Magazine that he believes the 'Impossible' singer should stop attacking other musicians.
Arthur recently rowed with fellow former contestant Lucy Spraggan over homophobic comments he made while performing a rap. He later gave a live apology for his behaviour following his performance on The X Factor.
"He's a competition winner that got lucky," said Walsh of the 25-year-old. "He came from a little bedsit, he should be a lot more grateful and a lot more respectful to everybody. Don't get me going.
"Nicole worked so hard with him last year - she got him into the final. He doesn't look comfortable in his own skin. He has talent but he's not Bob Dylan.
"You can't be slagging off One Direction, you can't slag off success. I think...
The 61-year-old X Factor judge added to Ok Magazine that he believes the 'Impossible' singer should stop attacking other musicians.
Arthur recently rowed with fellow former contestant Lucy Spraggan over homophobic comments he made while performing a rap. He later gave a live apology for his behaviour following his performance on The X Factor.
"He's a competition winner that got lucky," said Walsh of the 25-year-old. "He came from a little bedsit, he should be a lot more grateful and a lot more respectful to everybody. Don't get me going.
"Nicole worked so hard with him last year - she got him into the final. He doesn't look comfortable in his own skin. He has talent but he's not Bob Dylan.
"You can't be slagging off One Direction, you can't slag off success. I think...
- 12/10/2013
- Digital Spy
James Arthur has given an on-air apology for his recent behaviour while appearing on The X Factor tonight (December 1).
The singer has been at the centre of controversy in recent weeks after using a homophobic slur in a freestyle track he recorded last month.
He swiftly apologised to those he offended, but was later involved in a heated argument with Lucy Spraggan over his remarks.
Speaking to Dermot O'Leary on tonight's show, he said: "It's been an amazing year for me. There's been incredible highs paired with some terrible lows. I've made a few very silly mistakes.
"I just want to thank all the people who are still supporting me and especially The X Factor for giving me the opportunity to do my dream job.
"Above all, I'd like to say sorry for abusing my position as an X Factor winner, because I owe everything to this thing."
His performance...
The singer has been at the centre of controversy in recent weeks after using a homophobic slur in a freestyle track he recorded last month.
He swiftly apologised to those he offended, but was later involved in a heated argument with Lucy Spraggan over his remarks.
Speaking to Dermot O'Leary on tonight's show, he said: "It's been an amazing year for me. There's been incredible highs paired with some terrible lows. I've made a few very silly mistakes.
"I just want to thank all the people who are still supporting me and especially The X Factor for giving me the opportunity to do my dream job.
"Above all, I'd like to say sorry for abusing my position as an X Factor winner, because I owe everything to this thing."
His performance...
- 12/1/2013
- Digital Spy
James Arthur is scheduled to appear on The X Factor next week.
Last year's winner - who cancelled various appearances earlier this week due to exhaustion - will take to the stage on next Sunday's (December 1) results show, host Dermot O'Leary has confirmed.
He will be joined by 2010 runner-up Rebecca Ferguson, who is expected to perform her new single 'I Hope'.
On Friday (November 22), Arthur cancelled all public appearances and performances for the next seven days after being diagnosed with acute exhaustion.
A spokesperson for the 'Impossible' singer commented: "Unfortunately James Arthur has been diagnosed with acute exhaustion and instructed to rest for several days by his doctor.
"Regretfully, he has been forced to cancel all engagements during this period.
"James would like to apologise to his fans for any disappointment caused to them by these cancellations and he hopes to get back to full health as soon as possible.
Last year's winner - who cancelled various appearances earlier this week due to exhaustion - will take to the stage on next Sunday's (December 1) results show, host Dermot O'Leary has confirmed.
He will be joined by 2010 runner-up Rebecca Ferguson, who is expected to perform her new single 'I Hope'.
On Friday (November 22), Arthur cancelled all public appearances and performances for the next seven days after being diagnosed with acute exhaustion.
A spokesperson for the 'Impossible' singer commented: "Unfortunately James Arthur has been diagnosed with acute exhaustion and instructed to rest for several days by his doctor.
"Regretfully, he has been forced to cancel all engagements during this period.
"James would like to apologise to his fans for any disappointment caused to them by these cancellations and he hopes to get back to full health as soon as possible.
- 11/24/2013
- Digital Spy
We all know the X Factor is a well-oiled money machine, so it comes as no surprise that the show will release a celebratory Greatest Hits collection to get us buying all of those songs we probably already own.
And it got us thinking: wouldn't it be better value for money to have some songs on the collection that we probably don't already own?
The X Factor has produced some forgotten gems and stellar novelty tracks over the years, so we've listed 10 of the best that didn't make the final tracklist below.
Chico: 'It's Chico Time'
Long before Lucy Spraggan and Ella Henderson wowed audiences with their songwriting efforts, we had Chico and his wristwatch. The track shot straight to number one to become one of the UK's finest novelty blow-outs, so we're a bit miffed it didn't make the compilation. Bonus track, maybe?
Leon Jackson: 'Creative'
The...
And it got us thinking: wouldn't it be better value for money to have some songs on the collection that we probably don't already own?
The X Factor has produced some forgotten gems and stellar novelty tracks over the years, so we've listed 10 of the best that didn't make the final tracklist below.
Chico: 'It's Chico Time'
Long before Lucy Spraggan and Ella Henderson wowed audiences with their songwriting efforts, we had Chico and his wristwatch. The track shot straight to number one to become one of the UK's finest novelty blow-outs, so we're a bit miffed it didn't make the compilation. Bonus track, maybe?
Leon Jackson: 'Creative'
The...
- 10/17/2013
- Digital Spy
Steve Brookstein has expressed his disappointment that The X Factor hasn't included him on its upcoming Greatest Hits album.
The singer won the first series back in 2004 under the guidance of Simon Cowell, but has since fallen out with the Syco boss and has frequently criticised the talent show.
> The X Factor Greatest Hits: What didn't make the cut?
"I've not made the X Factor Greatest Hits Album," Brookstein tweeted. "Thanks for the 1st ever X Factor No1 and the 6 million votes. Just wasn't enough I guess."
2007 X Factor winner Leon Jackson has also failed to make the final tracklist, despite his winner's single 'When You Believe' going to number one.
Leona Lewis's 'Bleeding Love', One Direction's 'What Makes You Beautiful', Olly Murs's 'Troublemaker' and Jls's 'Beat Again' will all feature.
Previous winners Matt Cardle, Joe McElderry, Shayne Ward, Alexandra Burke, Little Mix and James Arthur will...
The singer won the first series back in 2004 under the guidance of Simon Cowell, but has since fallen out with the Syco boss and has frequently criticised the talent show.
> The X Factor Greatest Hits: What didn't make the cut?
"I've not made the X Factor Greatest Hits Album," Brookstein tweeted. "Thanks for the 1st ever X Factor No1 and the 6 million votes. Just wasn't enough I guess."
2007 X Factor winner Leon Jackson has also failed to make the final tracklist, despite his winner's single 'When You Believe' going to number one.
Leona Lewis's 'Bleeding Love', One Direction's 'What Makes You Beautiful', Olly Murs's 'Troublemaker' and Jls's 'Beat Again' will all feature.
Previous winners Matt Cardle, Joe McElderry, Shayne Ward, Alexandra Burke, Little Mix and James Arthur will...
- 10/17/2013
- Digital Spy
Lucy Spraggan is in talks to perform on 'The X Factor'. The singer-songwriter looks set to make a grand return to the live shows this year by inking a deal with Simon Cowell to perform her solo material on the ITV competition, despite quitting the show mid-series in 2012. Asked whether she'd consider appearing on the primetime programme, Lucy told Bang Showbiz at the 'Filth' premiere in London's Leceister on Monday night (30.09.13): ''Yeah sure, there's talks about that already. So hopefully, fingers crossed!'' The 22-year-old star hasn't been keeping up with this year's series, but was far from impressed when she heard...
- 9/30/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
Cancel your weekend plans until Christmas - The X Factor is back.
Simon Cowell's Saturday night monster returns with yet more brilliant, bonkers and bloody awful singers hoping to become the next 1D, Leona or Jls. To mark the show's return, Reality Bites has picked out 10 of the greatest ever X Factor auditions. Which do you think was the greatest?
1. Cher Lloyd - 37,598,499 YouTube views can't be wrong.
2. Katie Waissel - Imagine the person you would least like to end up in a lift with. This is 10 times worse.
3. Gamu - Three years on. We're still not over it.
4. Danyl Johnson - The power of the mic toss!
5. Leona Lewis - The voice that changed The X Factor.
6. Alexandra Burke - The emotional comeback.
7. Jedward - "Where do you see yourself in 15 years' time?" "I see myself being older."
8. Kitty Brucknell - Have a seat dear.
9. Olly Murs - Wonky drunk uncle dancing ahoy.
Simon Cowell's Saturday night monster returns with yet more brilliant, bonkers and bloody awful singers hoping to become the next 1D, Leona or Jls. To mark the show's return, Reality Bites has picked out 10 of the greatest ever X Factor auditions. Which do you think was the greatest?
1. Cher Lloyd - 37,598,499 YouTube views can't be wrong.
2. Katie Waissel - Imagine the person you would least like to end up in a lift with. This is 10 times worse.
3. Gamu - Three years on. We're still not over it.
4. Danyl Johnson - The power of the mic toss!
5. Leona Lewis - The voice that changed The X Factor.
6. Alexandra Burke - The emotional comeback.
7. Jedward - "Where do you see yourself in 15 years' time?" "I see myself being older."
8. Kitty Brucknell - Have a seat dear.
9. Olly Murs - Wonky drunk uncle dancing ahoy.
- 8/28/2013
- Digital Spy
'The X Factor' bosses have ordered an alcohol ban on contestants. Producers for the ITV talent show have ditched the luxury hotel in central London for this year's hopefuls and are looking for a suitable mansion in the outskirts of the city in a bid to prevent boozy nights out and embarrassing behaviour. The idea comes after 2012 contestants Lucy Spraggan and Rylan Clark were kicked out of London's five star Corinthia hotel in London last October following an alcohol-fuelled night of partying, which saw the eccentric presenter flash his butt to guests outside the prestigious accommodation.
- 8/28/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
The X Factor bosses have reportedly scrapped plans for contestants to stay in a five-star London hotel.
Last year, hopefuls stayed at the Corinthia Hotel in central London, but this year they have opted for a residency outside the centre, reports The Sun.
Producers are now searching for mansions in north London and Hertfordshire.
The move is said to be an attempt to avoid a repeat of last year's drunken antics by certain contestants, including Rylan Clark and Lucy Spraggan, with managers at the Corinthia having allegedly complained about some of the behaviour.
Clark and Spraggan were evicted from the hotel in October after a drunken night ended with Clark displaying his bottom to other guests.
The X Factor returns for its tenth series this weekend with Louis Walsh, Gary Barlow and Nicole Scherzinger back on the panel alongside former judge Sharon Osbourne.
The 10th series will launch on Saturday (August 31) at 8pm on ITV.
Last year, hopefuls stayed at the Corinthia Hotel in central London, but this year they have opted for a residency outside the centre, reports The Sun.
Producers are now searching for mansions in north London and Hertfordshire.
The move is said to be an attempt to avoid a repeat of last year's drunken antics by certain contestants, including Rylan Clark and Lucy Spraggan, with managers at the Corinthia having allegedly complained about some of the behaviour.
Clark and Spraggan were evicted from the hotel in October after a drunken night ended with Clark displaying his bottom to other guests.
The X Factor returns for its tenth series this weekend with Louis Walsh, Gary Barlow and Nicole Scherzinger back on the panel alongside former judge Sharon Osbourne.
The 10th series will launch on Saturday (August 31) at 8pm on ITV.
- 8/28/2013
- Digital Spy
This weekend sees the final of The X Factor, and former contestants were back in the spotlight as they made their way to Manchester, where the competition's finale will be staged. Union J joined Kye Sones, Melanie McCabe and Lucy Spraggan as they travelled on the train, while Rylan Clark was spotted in a blue onesie which covered his face. In the capital, Jls handed out Christmas presents to fans on the South Bank as they launched the Jls Foundation for Cancer Research UK, and Anita Dobson attended the Whatsonstage.com Awards launch (more)...
- 12/8/2012
- by By Donna Cini
- Digital Spy
This weekend sees the final of The X Factor, and former contestants were back in the spotlight as they made their way to Manchester, where the competition's finale will be staged. Union J joined Kye Sones, Melanie McCabe and Lucy Spraggan as they travelled on the train, while Rylan Clark was spotted in a blue onesie which covered his face. In the capital, Jls handed out Christmas presents to fans on the South Bank as they launched the Jls Foundation for Cancer Research UK, and Anita Dobson attended the Whatsonstage.com Awards launch (more)...
- 12/8/2012
- by By Donna Cini
- Digital Spy
Lucy Spraggan has revealed that she is hoping to release her debut studio album in March. The X Factor contestant explained that she has begun working on the LP since being forced to leave the ITV competition due to illness. "The plan is to write an album and have it released by spring, around March time," she told The Sun. "I've already got about 200 songs written up and ready to go, although obviously not all of those will make it." Spraggan stated that some tracks may be inspired by her experience on The X Factor. "I haven't written about (more)...
- 12/3/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
Lucy Spraggan has confirmed that she will not appear on the 2013 X Factor tour. The singer-songwriter had reportedly been offered a place on the tour lineup by X Factor bosses, but has decided to decline. Spraggan was forced to quit The X Factor earlier this month due to illness. The star is to embark on her own solo jaunt in 2013 instead of appearing on the X Factor tour. She tweeted: "Unfortunately, I won't be on Txf tour as I'll be doing my tour :) (sic)." Contestants are expected to earn around £100,000 each through (more)...
- 11/22/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
Lucy Spraggan has confirmed she will not be taking part in 'The X Factor' tour next year. The 21-year-old star pulled out of the competition after illness forced her to miss two shows, and while it was thought she would be offered a place on the nationwide arena tour - which can land acts as much as £100,000 - she is planning to play a string of solo gigs instead. In response to a fan asking her on Twitter if she was going on 'The X Factor' tour, she wrote: ''Unfortunately, I won't be on Txf tour as I'll be...
- 11/21/2012
- Virgin Media - TV
Lucy Spraggan returned to the stage for the first time since withdrawing from The X Factor at the Christmas Lights Switch-on Charity Concert in Sheffield last night (November 8). The 21-year-old former finalist sang her own song 'Beer Fear', which she had also performed during her first audition on the ITV1 show, at the festive event in Meadowhall Shopping Centre. Speaking to the crowd, Spraggan said: "Thank you for the support I've (more)...
- 11/9/2012
- by By Naomi Gordon
- Digital Spy
Lucy Spraggan has been invited to perform at the The X Factor live final, it has been reported. According to The Sun, the 21-year-old singer-songwriter has been asked back to the show to sing on the last episode of the talent contest. It was confirmed on Saturday (November 3) that Spraggan had pulled out of the competition suffering from ill health. She had been given a free pass to this weekend's show after not being able to perform the previous week (October 27). Spraggan said in (more)...
- 11/4/2012
- by By Frances Taylor
- Digital Spy
The songlist for tonight's edition of The X Factor has been revealed. The theme for this week is 'Number Ones', with any song that has topped the UK charts being fair game for acts to sing. Earlier today saw the shock departure of Lucy Spraggan, after she voluntarily chose to leave after being deemed too ill to perform two weeks in a row. Her fellow contestants tweeted their support for the singer-songwriter's decision earlier, as well as mentor Tulisa Constostavlos, who said she was sorry to see her leave as she now counts Spraggan "as a friend". The remaining contestants will now attempt to battle it out for a place in the X Factor final (more)...
- 11/3/2012
- by By Paul Martinovic
- Digital Spy
Lucy Spraggan has left 'The X Factor'. The singer did not perform last saturday (27.10.12) due to illness, and was automatically put through to tonight's (03.11.12) show, but after missing rehearsals this week, has decided she is not well enough to continue. A post on 'The X Factor's' official Facebook page said: ''Lucy isn't well enough to perform this weekend so she has decided to withdraw from the competition. We are all sorry to see her go and wish her all the best for the future. She has been a fantastic contestant.'' Lucy said in a statement: ''I am gutted not...
- 11/3/2012
- Virgin Media - TV
Lucy Spraggan has withdrawn from The X Factor. It has been widely rumoured in recent days that Spraggan was not well enough to return to the competition. She was given a free pass to this weekend's show after being unable to perform last weekend due to ill health. The X Factor has now released an official statement confirming that Spraggan has left the show. "Lucy isn't well enough to perform this weekend so she has decided to withdraw from the competition," it said. "We are all sorry to see her go and wish her all the best for the future. She has been a fantastic contestant." Spraggan also released a statement following her decision to leave the show. She thanked her fans and said that it is only fair for her to withdraw. She said: "I am gutted not to be able to continue on this journey but I'm not well enough to perform.
- 11/3/2012
- by By Sam Rigby
- Digital Spy
Lucy Spraggan is reportedly facing a decision over whether or not to quit The X Factor today (November 2). The singer was given a bye into the next round of the competition last week due to illness, and she is still yet to have a full practice session this week. It was recently claimed that Spraggan was threatening to quit the show due to being unhappy over song choices. Her close friend and fellow contestant Rylan Clark has now said that she may decide to leave following her ongoing illness. "Her health comes first and the show comes second at the moment," he told The Sun. Spraggan was due to have her first (more)...
- 11/2/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
Lucy Spraggan has left 'The X Factor'. The singer did not perform last saturday (27.10.12) due to illness, and was automatically put through to tonight's (03.11.12) show, but after missing rehearsals this week, has decided she is not well enough to continue. A post on 'The X Factor's' official Facebook page said: ''Lucy isn't well enough to perform this weekend so she has decided to withdraw from the competition. We are all sorry to see her go and wish her all the best for the future. She has been a fantastic contestant.'' Lucy said in a statement: ''I am gutted not...
- 11/1/2012
- Virgin Media - TV
Lucy Spraggan has reportedly threatened to quit 'The X Factor'. The 21-year-old singer didn't perform on Saturday's show (27.10.12) as she was unwell and although she was given a bye to next week's show, she isn't sure if she wants to continue because producers keep making her sing cover versions. A source said: ''Lucy might quit - she's tired of being told off. She doesn't want to sing covers. She was loving it but she's unwell, which is making her more negative.'' Lucy has performed some of her own songs on the ITV1 show, which are now doing well in the iTunes chart...
- 10/29/2012
- Virgin Media - TV
Lucy Spraggan is not entirely happy on The X Factor and has threatened to quit the show, it has been claimed. The 21-year-old singer is reportedly upset because she does not want to keep singing cover versions on the show. Spraggan auditioned with her own material, and also performed original track 'Mountains' during the first live show of the series. "Lucy might quit - she's tired of being told off," an insider claimed to The Mirror. "She doesn't want to sing covers. She was loving it but she's unwell, which is making her negative." The insider also claimed that Spraggan wants to "be paid for the songs (more)...
- 10/29/2012
- by By Kate Goodacre
- Digital Spy
The X Factor's Lucy Spraggan has admitted that she fancies her mentor on the show Tulisa Contostavlos. The contestant has talked openly about her sexuality, revealing previously that Marina Diamandis is her "dream woman". Speaking about Contostavlos, The Sun reports that Spraggan said: "I love her - and of course I fancy her, all men and women fancy her." The 'Last Night' singer went on to explain that she is involved in a long-distance relationship, with her girlfriend currently staying in Thailand. "I really miss my girlfriend," she said. "But I told her, 'Don't think about not going because I'm here', and she said, 'Lucy, come (more)...
- 10/27/2012
- by By Greg Laing
- Digital Spy
Consider us glamoured: Nicole Scherzinger struck a sexy pose as a vampire at "X Factor UK" contestant Ryan Clark's birthday party in London Wednesday night. The 34-year-old singer left little to the imagination as she flaunted her figure in fishnet stockings and a red latex corset, posing with fellow "X Factor U.K." judge Tulisa Contostavlos and competition finalists Lucy Spraggan and Clark.
Scherzinger, 34, is of course no stranger in knowing how to heat things up: she was a member of the raunchy all-female burlesque troupe the Pussycat Dolls from 2003 to 2010.
Photos:
Tulisa focuses intensely on Nicole's shoulder.
Feel the Love: Nicole grabs the microphone from Ryan Clark and Lucy Spraggan.
Scherzinger, 34, is of course no stranger in knowing how to heat things up: she was a member of the raunchy all-female burlesque troupe the Pussycat Dolls from 2003 to 2010.
Photos:
Tulisa focuses intensely on Nicole's shoulder.
Feel the Love: Nicole grabs the microphone from Ryan Clark and Lucy Spraggan.
- 10/25/2012
- by Youyoung Lee
- Huffington Post
Lucy Spraggan has admitted that Marina Diamandis is her "dream woman". The X Factor contestant said the Marina and the Diamonds star is her top celebrity crush, Metro reports. Spraggan, 21, revealed: "She is my dream woman; if I met her, it'd be embarrassing. "For once, I think I'd be lost for words." She also tweeted about her love of Diamandis on Twitter, responding to a fan with: "I fangirl over Marina and the Diamonds." Spraggan has said previously that she hopes to help others come out as a result of being open about her sexuality, (more)...
- 10/23/2012
- by By Sam Rigby
- Digital Spy
X Factor contestant Rylan Clark has spoken about being kicked out of London's Corinthia Hotel. The singer, alongside fellow contestant Lucy Spraggan, was asked to leave the 5-star hotel yesterday after a drunken night out resulted in him flashing his bum outside the entrance. "Oh god, the hotel were not happy with that kind of press," Clark told Heat magazine. "I'm holed up in a hotel in Wembley for five days. I've got to behave myself. "I can't believe it. I was so drunk, but I said I'd do it and I f**king did it. The X Factor team warned me not to (more)...
- 10/17/2012
- by By Colin Daniels
- Digital Spy
The X Factor went all mushy tonight for Love and Heartbreak week, but here at Digital Spy, we want to know who really made you go all weak at the knees. Was it Jahmene Douglas, with his mash-up of 'Tears Dry on Their Own' and 'Ain't No Mountain High Enough'? Did Ella Henderson get you passionate with her rendition of Minnie Riperton's 'Lovin' You'? Was Lucy Spraggan's unusual choice of Kanye West's 'Gold Digger' enough to make you pick up the phone to (more)...
- 10/13/2012
- by By Amy Bell
- Digital Spy
Lucy Spraggan has spoken about her grandmother's death on The X Factor tonight (October 13). The 21-year-old singer performed her version of Kanye West's 'Gold Digger' with her guitar. Prior to singing, Spraggan was filmed in tears speaking about the family bereavement. She said: "My week's been not great." She continued to explain that her grandmother had passed away on Monday (October 8). Spraggan said: "My nanny died on Monday. My granddad said on the phone that when she (more)...
- 10/13/2012
- by By Frances Taylor
- Digital Spy
The X Factor's Lucy Spraggan has said that she thinks Ella Henderson will win the competition. The singer-songwriter was asked on The Xtra Factor whether she thought she herself could win, to which she simply replied: "I don't know." However, when asked who her biggest rival was, she jokingly turned and fixed her stare on Henderson. Laughing and hugging her fellow Girls team member, she then added: "Honestly, she's one of my favourite people in the world, though, but she's absolutely fantastic, and I think... she's the winner." Earlier in the evening, (more)...
- 10/7/2012
- by By Greg Laing
- Digital Spy
The X Factor live shows returned in typically overstated style tonight, with a brand new crop of contestants eager to win over the great British public. But who shone for you? Did the newly-renamed District3 float your boat with their version of a Tina Turner tune? Did Lucy Spraggan capture your heart with her self-penned song 'Mountains'? Or perhaps you thought Chris Maloney deserved his Wildcard place with his rendition of Mariah Carey's 'Hero'? Maybe it was MK1 that impressed (more)...
- 10/6/2012
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Lucy Spraggan was allowed to perform one of her own songs on The X Factor tonight (October 6). The singer-songwriter gave a rendition of self-penned track 'Mountains' on the first live show of this series. Tulisa Contostavlos introduced her Girls contestant by saying Spraggan would be singing her "own song" for the "first time ever in X Factor history". However, former contestant Chico was allowed to sing original song 'It's Chico Time' in week six of series two. It was unclear whether Contostavlos meant that Spraggan's track was the first one entirely written by a contestant. Spraggan was praised by (more)...
- 10/6/2012
- by By Greg Laing
- Digital Spy
Lucy Spraggan performed one of Rihanna's biggest hits during a singing competition last year. The X Factor finalist won talent contest 'Live And Unsigned' last year after performing a rendition of the Bajan star's international smash 'Umbrella'. Spraggan then mashes up the track with her own song 'Beer Fear', which she would later go on to perform in her first judges audition on The X Factor earlier this year. Another video of Spraggan sees the star cover Beyoncé's 'Halo' for (more)...
- 10/4/2012
- by By Lewis Corner
- Digital Spy
Olly Murs has backed Lucy Spraggan to win 'The X Factor'. The 'Xtra Factor' host insists he can't have ''favourites'' among the finalists but confessed to a soft spot for the singer after she went through with a bet to have his name tattooed on her foot. He said: ''I can't really have favourites but I'd probably have to say Lucy [Spraggan], just because she's got a tattoo of [my name] on her foot. I went to visit her house and we did some bits and bobs with her and she said to me that if I performed with her she'd get...
- 10/2/2012
- Virgin Media - TV
The final 12 acts for The X Factor have been confirmed. The finalists were revealed in tonight's (September 30) second Judges' Houses episode, which saw the four judges reveal which acts were successful. Nicole Scherzinger was joined by Ne-Yo in selecting her final three, and chose Rylan Clark, James Arthur and Jahmene Douglas in her Boys category. Tulisa Contostavlos - helped by Tinie Tempah - went for Jade Ellis, Lucy Spraggan and Ella Henderson for the Girls. Melanie Masson, Kye Sones and Carolynne Poole were chosen by Gary Barlow for the Overs, with assistance from Cheryl Cole. Finally, Louis Walsh and Sharon Osbourne kept GMD3, MK1 and Union J in the Groups category. Gary Barlow said of the final list of contestants: "This (more)...
- 9/30/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
Lucy Spraggan has revealed that she thought she was going to die following an accident at work. The X Factor star still suffers constant pain after she plummeted to the ground when a cherry picker gave way while she was working on a hotel roof. "I was working in demolition and I was 40ft high in the cherry picker removing some roof tiles from a hotel. Then all of a sudden the machine collapsed and I went hurtling towards the floor at 120 miles an hour," she told The Sun. "I thought I was going to die. I was just rushing towards the ground. Just before the impact I lifted up my legs and that helped cushion the fall. But then I got covered in slates that fell on to my leg as it hit the ground. (more)...
- 9/29/2012
- by By Colin Daniels
- Digital Spy
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