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
It's less than a week until the return of The Voice and yes, we are very excited indeed. So when host Marvin Humes was in London, we obviously nabbed him for a good old natter in preparation for the blind auditions, which kick off on Saturday.
Read on for 12 things we found out from Marvin, including why watching the show with Rochelle is not good, how Rita Ora is doing and why criticisms that the show hasn't found a star are unfair. And much, much more...
1. Marvin struggles to keep the success or failure of the contestants a secret.
"At the minute no-one has seen anybody. When it comes to January then yeah, it's hard. My mum and dad are always like, 'Do they make it?' when I'm watching it with them. The worst person is Rochelle. She's so impatient. She's terrible when I watch it with her.
"The...
Read on for 12 things we found out from Marvin, including why watching the show with Rochelle is not good, how Rita Ora is doing and why criticisms that the show hasn't found a star are unfair. And much, much more...
1. Marvin struggles to keep the success or failure of the contestants a secret.
"At the minute no-one has seen anybody. When it comes to January then yeah, it's hard. My mum and dad are always like, 'Do they make it?' when I'm watching it with them. The worst person is Rochelle. She's so impatient. She's terrible when I watch it with her.
"The...
- 1/5/2015
- Digital Spy
It's less than a week until the return of The Voice and yes, we are very excited indeed. So when host Marvin Humes was in London, we obviously nabbed him for a good old natter in preparation for the blind auditions, which kick off on Saturday.
Read on for 12 things we found out from Marvin, including why watching the show with Rochelle is not good, how Rita Ora is doing and why criticisms that the show hasn't found a star are unfair. And much, much more...
1. Marvin struggles to keep the success or failure of the contestants a secret.
"At the minute no-one has seen anybody. When it comes to January then yeah, it's hard. My mum and dad are always like, 'Do they make it?' when I'm watching it with them. The worst person is Rochelle. She's so impatient. She's terrible when I watch it with her.
"The...
Read on for 12 things we found out from Marvin, including why watching the show with Rochelle is not good, how Rita Ora is doing and why criticisms that the show hasn't found a star are unfair. And much, much more...
1. Marvin struggles to keep the success or failure of the contestants a secret.
"At the minute no-one has seen anybody. When it comes to January then yeah, it's hard. My mum and dad are always like, 'Do they make it?' when I'm watching it with them. The worst person is Rochelle. She's so impatient. She's terrible when I watch it with her.
"The...
- 1/5/2015
- 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
Fame Academy may only have lasted two series, but boy, did it burn bright. And even though it was over ten years ago that it was on our screens, we're still belting out David Sneddon's utter tune 'Stop Living The Lie' at our DS karaoke sessions.
But the news of series two's Alistair Griffin teaming up with Kimberley Walsh for a Tour de France single got us thinking - what happened to all of our favourite Fame Academy contestants? Well, here's what we could find out about 16 of the students over both series...
Series One
Ashley House
Ashley might have been eliminated in week one of Fame Academy (the shame) but he's not let that little disappointment hold him back. He went on to guest star in an episode of Cbbc's Mi: High... look, we promise, this gets better. He's now a sports presenter who helped launch Arsenal TV,...
But the news of series two's Alistair Griffin teaming up with Kimberley Walsh for a Tour de France single got us thinking - what happened to all of our favourite Fame Academy contestants? Well, here's what we could find out about 16 of the students over both series...
Series One
Ashley House
Ashley might have been eliminated in week one of Fame Academy (the shame) but he's not let that little disappointment hold him back. He went on to guest star in an episode of Cbbc's Mi: High... look, we promise, this gets better. He's now a sports presenter who helped launch Arsenal TV,...
- 7/4/2014
- Digital Spy
Okay, so we might not be wearing our gladrags and we might not be sipping champagne, but who says a onesie and a takeaway can't be glamorous?
It's BAFTA night, and while we're not at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane with all the best and brightest from the last year of television, at least we can join the party from our sofas. Yep, we'll be blogging along with the awards - which start at 8pm on BBC One - so grab your slippers and a cuppa and join in by tweeting @digitalspy and leaving your comments below...
And as a reminder, the awards actually start in "real life" at 7pm - but we'll be doggedly going along with the television broadcast and pretending we're not an hour behind everyone else, so there's no fear of spoilers. If you want things as they happen, we'll be updating our winners' list here.
It's BAFTA night, and while we're not at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane with all the best and brightest from the last year of television, at least we can join the party from our sofas. Yep, we'll be blogging along with the awards - which start at 8pm on BBC One - so grab your slippers and a cuppa and join in by tweeting @digitalspy and leaving your comments below...
And as a reminder, the awards actually start in "real life" at 7pm - but we'll be doggedly going along with the television broadcast and pretending we're not an hour behind everyone else, so there's no fear of spoilers. If you want things as they happen, we'll be updating our winners' list here.
- 5/18/2014
- Digital Spy
A+E Networks UK Orders British Version Of ‘Dance Moms’ The UK is getting the first format adaptation of Lifetime’s U.S. reality series Dance Moms. A+E Networks UK has ordered a British version the show, to be titled Dance Mums. Shiver, part of ITV Studios, will produce eight hourlong episodes of the show, which will be fronted by actress and dance Jennifer Ellison, whose Liverpool dance school Fame Academy provides the setting. Dance Mums is due to air this year. Network Ten Bringing Fake Prince Harry Reality Show To Australia Network Ten has acquired Shine International’s upcoming reality series I Wanna Marry ‘Harry’ for Australia. Co-produced by Zig Zag Productions and Ryan Seacrest Productions, the eight-episode series features 12 women competing for their chance to marry “Prince Harry”, while living at an English estate. But there is a catch: It’s not actually Prince Harry but imposter Matthew Hicks.
- 5/15/2014
- by THE DEADLINE TEAM
- Deadline TV
Jennifer Ellison is to front a UK version of Lifetime factual entertainment series Dance Moms.
The eight-part series, produced by Shiver, will have a similar format to the Us show, with Ellison's Liverpool dance school, Fame Academy, providing the setting.
The actress and award-winning dancer said: "I watch Dance Moms and Abby Lee Miller on Lifetime, so I am delighted to be part of a UK version. I can promise drama, humour and a lot of entertainment.
"I won't let anything that isn't West End leading lady standard go out that door!"
The Us series follows dance teacher Miller as she deals with pushy parents and their child performers as they embark on their early showbusiness careers. It has the highest ratings for a non-fiction series on Lifetime in the Us.
"The Dance Moms format lends itself perfectly to a local UK adaptation," said Miles Jarvis, executive producer at Shiver.
The eight-part series, produced by Shiver, will have a similar format to the Us show, with Ellison's Liverpool dance school, Fame Academy, providing the setting.
The actress and award-winning dancer said: "I watch Dance Moms and Abby Lee Miller on Lifetime, so I am delighted to be part of a UK version. I can promise drama, humour and a lot of entertainment.
"I won't let anything that isn't West End leading lady standard go out that door!"
The Us series follows dance teacher Miller as she deals with pushy parents and their child performers as they embark on their early showbusiness careers. It has the highest ratings for a non-fiction series on Lifetime in the Us.
"The Dance Moms format lends itself perfectly to a local UK adaptation," said Miles Jarvis, executive producer at Shiver.
- 5/14/2014
- Digital Spy
Who can possibly replace Louis Walsh on the X Factor? The answer to that question is simple. Nobody. It's a silly question.
However, if the X Factor juggernaut is going to continue without the cheeky Irish scamp, Digital Spy has seven (not particularly serious) suggestions for replacements.
Sinitta
A first-week exit on Dancing on Ice, a gig on the written-out-of-Cowell-history TV turkey Grease Is The Word and 10 years on the X Factor sidelines, where she was reduced to parading around with only palm leaves to cover her modesty in a bid to capture someone's (anyone's) attention. Is it finally time for the 'friend of Simon Cowell' and 'So Macho' popstar to step into the big league?
Pete Waterman
Way back when Simon Cowell was still known in the music industry as the man behind Zig & Zag and Robson & Jerome's pop careers, Pete Waterman was the original big cheese in cheesy pop.
However, if the X Factor juggernaut is going to continue without the cheeky Irish scamp, Digital Spy has seven (not particularly serious) suggestions for replacements.
Sinitta
A first-week exit on Dancing on Ice, a gig on the written-out-of-Cowell-history TV turkey Grease Is The Word and 10 years on the X Factor sidelines, where she was reduced to parading around with only palm leaves to cover her modesty in a bid to capture someone's (anyone's) attention. Is it finally time for the 'friend of Simon Cowell' and 'So Macho' popstar to step into the big league?
Pete Waterman
Way back when Simon Cowell was still known in the music industry as the man behind Zig & Zag and Robson & Jerome's pop careers, Pete Waterman was the original big cheese in cheesy pop.
- 8/7/2013
- Digital Spy
What is the secret of The X Factor's success? Maybe it's hidden in Louis Walsh's hair. Perhaps it's disguised under Simon Cowell's yanked-up trousers. Or maybe it's in Dermot O'Leary's signature bum-wiggle.
As you've probably guessed, we have no idea what's behind the ITV mega-smash's hit formula. So at today's X Factor series 10 launch we asked the show's stars why they think the series has endured, while other talent shows have been derailed (Fame Academy) or failed to get off the ground (The Voice UK).
The X Factor returns on ITV later this year.
Gary Barlow, Nicole Scherzinger and Louis Walsh are joined by returning judge Sharon Osbourne for the tenth series.
Dermot O'Leary is hosting the main show, while Caroline Flack is joined by newcomer Matt Richardson on Xtra Factor.
Photo gallery - The X Factor Wembley Stadium auditions:...
As you've probably guessed, we have no idea what's behind the ITV mega-smash's hit formula. So at today's X Factor series 10 launch we asked the show's stars why they think the series has endured, while other talent shows have been derailed (Fame Academy) or failed to get off the ground (The Voice UK).
The X Factor returns on ITV later this year.
Gary Barlow, Nicole Scherzinger and Louis Walsh are joined by returning judge Sharon Osbourne for the tenth series.
Dermot O'Leary is hosting the main show, while Caroline Flack is joined by newcomer Matt Richardson on Xtra Factor.
Photo gallery - The X Factor Wembley Stadium auditions:...
- 7/15/2013
- Digital Spy
Simon Cowell has revealed that he feels more relaxed in his career compared to previous years.
The Britain's Got Talent and X Factor judge told BBC Radio 2's Steve Wright that he doesn't feel the same kind of pressure he did when he first launched Pop Idol in 2001.
"I used to have more pressure, I took it more seriously years ago and got stupidly competitive about it.
"Now I have a more balanced perspective. I genuinely consider myself lucky everyday that we get away with this and people enjoy what we do.
"Then you get more relaxed about it and you have a good time being a judge on the show and not become a producer at the same time, because you literally drive yourself crazy."
Talking about the debate on whether children and other vulnerable people should take part in TV talent shows, Cowell said: "You take every person as an individual.
The Britain's Got Talent and X Factor judge told BBC Radio 2's Steve Wright that he doesn't feel the same kind of pressure he did when he first launched Pop Idol in 2001.
"I used to have more pressure, I took it more seriously years ago and got stupidly competitive about it.
"Now I have a more balanced perspective. I genuinely consider myself lucky everyday that we get away with this and people enjoy what we do.
"Then you get more relaxed about it and you have a good time being a judge on the show and not become a producer at the same time, because you literally drive yourself crazy."
Talking about the debate on whether children and other vulnerable people should take part in TV talent shows, Cowell said: "You take every person as an individual.
- 6/7/2013
- Digital Spy
Simon Cowell has a new girlfriend. The 53-year-old music mogul has enjoyed a string of dates with Louise Griffiths - who was previously engaged to Formula 1 star Jenson Button until 2005 - and even invited her to his Beverly Hills home to celebrate his recent birthday. A friend of Louise told The Sun newspaper: ''It is very early days but there is certainly a chemistry between them.'' After one date, Louise - a former contestant in TV talent show 'Fame Academy' - tweeted: ''Going to bed as the sun is coming up. Haven't done that in a while! #fun. (sic)'' However, the brunette...
- 10/19/2012
- Virgin Media - Celebrity
Simon Cowell has a new girlfriend. The 53-year-old music mogul has enjoyed a string of dates with Louise Griffiths - who was previously engaged to Formula 1 star Jenson Button until 2005 - and even invited her to his Beverly Hills home to celebrate his recent birthday. A friend of Louise told The Sun newspaper: 'It is very early days but there is certainly a chemistry between them.' After one date, Louise - a former contestant in TV talent show 'Fame Academy' - tweeted: 'Going to bed as the sun is coming up. Haven't done that in a while! #fun. (sic)' However, the brunette beauty's pal insists the relationship isn't serious yet as Louise is wary of Simon's reluctance to...
- 10/19/2012
- Monsters and Critics
Vocal coach David Grant has criticised The X Factor and controversial contestant Rylan Clark. The former Fame Academy coach told Sky News that Clark is "unbelievably fame-hungry". "You have had in the many years of X Factor many people desperate for success. But this is the first person I have ever seen that would dress up and cross the street to be at the opening of an envelope," he said. "Rylan is the man who has had the greatest songwriter of our generation told he is deaf by someone who manages Jedward. Every time you think X Factor is a talent show, something like this happens to remind us that it's not." Grant added that talented contestants always leave before (more)...
- 10/17/2012
- by By Sam Rigby
- Digital Spy
Former X Factor contestant Carolynne Poole has apologised for "letting down" fans following her controversial elimination from the show. The ex-Fame Academy finalist was sent home over Rylan Clark in the first live results episode last night (October 7) after Louis Walsh took the judges' vote to deadlock. The result provoked outrage from viewers after Walsh initially appeared to save Poole, before changing his mind upon further probing from host Dermot O'Leary. Fans also began speculating that a member of the production team seen speaking to Walsh during Poole's final performance had told him how to vote, though this has been adamantly denied. (more)...
- 10/8/2012
- by By Daniel Sperling
- Digital Spy
Congratulations are in store this week for telly's most adorably old-school couple Patrick Kielty and Cat Deeley. Having met on BBC's Fame Academy over a decade ago, the friends-turned-lovers married in an intimate ceremony in Rome. Long-standing buddy Edith Bowman was on hand to carry out bridesmaid duties, and the stunning location ensured it was a day to remember. Well done PatCat - move over Eamonn and Ruth, there's a new, glitzy telly husband and wife duo in town! Speaking of veteran TV stars, what the heck was Tara Palmer Tomkinson up to this week? In a bizarre career move, the controversial bosom buddy of Prince Charles and co appeared on national TV to perform her self-penned single '5 Seconds'. Now it wasn't totally unfortunate - in fact, I hate to admit I found myself quite liking the actual melody â“ it's just that I find the (more)...
- 10/7/2012
- by By Anna Williamson
- Digital Spy
So You Think You Can … keep a secret? According to multiple British reports, Cat Deeley quietly wed Irish comedian Patrick Kielty in Rome over the weekend at the Saint Isidore's College chapel. The U.K.'s Daily Mail cites an apparent wedding photo of the So You Think You Can Dance host, 35, wearing a white dress and having a celebratory drink with Kielty, 41. However, reps for Deeley and Kielty have kept mum on the reported nuptials. Father Micheal MacCraith - the head of Saint Isidore's College, where Deeley reportedly tied the knot - would not confirm that the TV host was wed there,...
- 10/1/2012
- by Alison Schwartz
- PEOPLE.com
X Factor finalist Carolynne Poole has revealed that she thought she was going to faint when Gary Barlow confirmed that she was in his Top 3 acts. Poole, who previously appeared on BBC One's Fame Academy, was dumped out of last year's X Factor at Judges' Houses by Louis Walsh. The singer said that she could feel the "heat rising" in her body when she sat down with Barlow to discover her fate this year. "I was just sat looking at his lips willing him to say, 'you're through' again and again in my head," she told the Xtra (more)...
- 10/1/2012
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Cat Deeley and Patrick Kielty have reportedly married in Italy. The former Fame Academy co-hosts tied the knot at a surprise ceremony in Rome, according to The Sun. The wedding was allegedly held in front of a small group of family and friends, with Deeley wearing a white ruffled round-neck gown with a flower in her hair. The couple - who confirmed their relationship in June - were rumoured to have become engaged last month, but (more)...
- 9/30/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
Carolynne Poole has claimed that this year's X Factor will be her year. The 32-year-old from Leeds has already amassed a great deal of experience in reality contests, having reached the final of Fame Academy in 2003 as well as the Judges' Houses stage of last year's X Factor. Poole sang in front of Louis Walsh and Sinitta on that occasion, but failed to make it to the next stage, leaving her "heartbroken". She claims that her performance then was the result of a "difficult year", saying: "Last year, myself and my husband had been through IVF and it had failed, then my marriage was in tatters, I had lost him and I had lost the hope of a family and I had lost the hope of a career singing... I came away from that feeling like that was it, I'm never going to do it again, I'm never going to sing again.
- 9/16/2012
- by By Paul Martinovic
- Digital Spy
Lemar has declared that he is "proud" of his career, after breaking through on Fame Academy in 2002. The singer revealed that his initial aim following his time on the BBC singing contest was to last for two decades and that he plans to keep pursuing that ambition. Asked about his time on Fame Academy, Lemar told Digital Spy: "A decade! I feel proud. "One thing that I said when I started off, I remember talking to Nick Raphael my A&R guy, and he was like, 'What do you want from music?' and I said, 'I want 20 years, that's what (more)...
- 8/13/2012
- by By Lewis Corner
- Digital Spy
Cat Deeley and Patrick Kielty are rumoured to have got engaged. Speculation that the couple, who only confirmed their relationship in June, are set to marry began after Deeley was seen sporting a diamond ring as they held a champagne celebration with friends at London's Goring Hotel on Sunday (July 29). The former Fame Academy co-hosts were said to have "looked very happy and excited", according to Heat. A source revealed: "There was lots of congratulations and passing around (more)...
- 8/1/2012
- by By Daniel Sperling
- Digital Spy
Lemar has said that he will warn his children away from applying to TV talent shows such as The X Factor. The soul singer, who rose to prominence after he came third in the first series of Fame Academy, said that he will tell his two children if they can't sing, rather than TV judges. "I'm not going to wrap them up in cotton wool," he told the Daily Star. "If they're no good, (more)...
- 7/13/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
Alistair Griffin has admitted that he took a break from music after going through a "dark" period in his life. The singer, who finished second place on the 2003 series of Fame Academy, said that he moved back to his hometown in Yorkshire after "a lot of ups and downs". He told Digital Spy: "It's been a while! I went on tour with Robin Gibb which was nice, and then I decamped back to Yorkshire where I built a studio on a farm." Discussing a track on his new album Albion Sky called 'Silent Suicide', he explained: "Years ago I wouldn't have put out a song like 'Silent Suicide'. The big suits at the label (more)...
- 6/29/2012
- by By Robert Copsey
- Digital Spy
Lemar has announced plans for a new comeback single. The 'If There's Any Justice' singer will release 'Invincible' on August 12, ahead of his upcoming fifth studio album. The track was recorded at sessions in London and Los Angeles, and was written by the former Fame Academy star. "Sticking together is what makes you invincible," said Lemar. "When times are hard, it's important to stick together and know what your values are." 'Invincible' will be Lemar's (more)...
- 6/13/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
Previous X Factor hopeful Carolynne Poole has made a return to the 2012 series of the show. The singer, who previously took part in BBC's Fame Academy as well as reaching last year's Boot Camp stage of the competition, is hoping to progress further second time around. Louis Walsh opted not to take Poole through to the live shows last year, controversially picking the eccentric Goldie Cheung instead. When Cheung pulled out of the competition, Walsh brought back Sami Brookes rather than Poole. The 31-year-old country singer performed a rendition of Miley Cyrus hit 'The Climb' at the start of the competition last year, which was praised by Gary Barlow for being "an amazing audition". More recently Poole landed a minor role in ITV1 (more)...
- 6/8/2012
- by By Alice Stewart
- Digital Spy
Cat Deeley has confirmed that she is in a relationship with her former Fame Academy co-presenter Patrick Kielty. Deeley, who worked on the BBC show with Kielty in 2002 and 2003, described him as "a really old friend" during an appearance on talkshow Live! with Kelly. The So You Think You Can Dance host said: "I am no longer a single lady. I am dating a really old friend of mine. I have known him for 10 years. "I don't know [why it took so long]. Ladies just like to take their time. Now I have finally seen the light." (more)...
- 6/6/2012
- by By Kate Goodacre
- Digital Spy
Louis Walsh claims 'The Voice' is ''dull and boring''. The music manager - who is a judge on rival show 'The X Factor' - says the BBC talent programme has failed to live up to expectations as it is not as exciting as the Us version. He said: ''I hate 'The Voice'. I think everyone thought 'The Voice' UK would be like the Us version, and it's not. It's dull and boring. ''It's not great TV. It's like 'Fame Academy' all those years ago. The best thing about it are the revolving chairs, and once you've seen that, the novelty wears off.'' Louis -...
- 5/15/2012
- Virgin Media - TV
Louis Walsh claims 'The Voice' is ''dull and boring''. The music manager - who is a judge on rival show 'The X Factor' - says the BBC talent programme has failed to live up to expectations as it is not as exciting as the Us version. He said: ''I hate 'The Voice'. I think everyone thought 'The Voice' UK would be like the Us version, and it's not. It's dull and boring. ''It's not great TV. It's like 'Fame Academy' all those years ago. The best thing about it are the revolving chairs, and once you've seen that, the novelty wears off.'' Louis -...
- 5/14/2012
- Virgin Media - TV
There's been much furore over the news that Britain's Got Talent and The Voice UK are to clash when they both launch next Saturday. Both talent shows will go head-to-head for 20 minutes between 8pm and 8.20pm, with The Voice taking the earlier timeslot. But do TV clashes matter as much as they used to? Back when Pop Idol and Fame Academy famously clashed in 2003, we didn't have the luxury of watching on +1 or catching up on the internet or recording on Sky+. On the other hand, as overnight data has increasingly shown over the last few years, viewers prefer (more)...
- 3/14/2012
- by By Paul Millar
- Digital Spy
Patrick Kielty has reportedly been overheard discussing his romance with Cat Deeley. The former Fame Academy hosts have been linked since they were spotted out on Valentine's Day in Los Angeles and holidayed together in Mexico. Although neither have officially confirmed a relationship yet, sources say that Kielty revealed all to friends at the Electric House members' club in Notting Hill. "Patrick was there talking to a group of friends when somebody asked him if there was a special lady in his life," the insider told the (more)...
- 2/22/2012
- by By Daniel Sperling
- Digital Spy
Cat Deeley and Patrick Kielty have reportedly returned home from a holiday together in Mexico, fuelling rumours that they are an item. The former Fame Academy co-presenters are rumoured to have started dating last autumn when Deeley joined Kielty in Northern Ireland, according to The Independent. The pair are said to have stayed together at the five-star Las Ventanas beach resort in Cabo San Lucas. A close friend of the couple has revealed that they are intending to "settle down and raise a family" (more)...
- 2/16/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
David Sneddon has defended Lana Del Rey from claims that she is manufactured. The songwriter - who won Fame Academy back in 2002 - worked with his musical colleague James Bauer-Mein and Del Rey on her debut album Born To Die. Speaking about suggestions that the star was unauthentic, Sneddon told The Independent: "She'd spent a while working on her sound before we met her so we were pretty quick to learn what she wanted out of a song. "The lyrics are incredibly personal to her and although she enjoys the mystique of Hollywood imagery, you'll find a (more)...
- 1/30/2012
- by By Lewis Corner
- Digital Spy
British TV producer Richard Hopkins has lost his battle with cancer at the age of 47.
He passed away in Britain on Saturday.
Throughout his career, Hopkins produced both Fame Academy and Fear Factor in the U.K. and he later pitched and developed competition series Strictly Come Dancing for the BBC. The show later transferred to America in the form of now-popular programme Dancing With the Stars.
He also oversaw the first season of reality series Big Brother and produced Britain's The 11 O'Clock Show, which helped to launch the careers of Ricky Gervais and Sacha Baron Cohen.
Hopkins also launched his own production company, Fever Media, with his business partner David Mortimer in 2006.
Remembering his late pal, Mortimer tells the Associated Press, "Television is, by its nature, an ephemeral business, so very few of us can hope to have any lasting legacy. Richard was a glorious exception to this rule and, as one of the greatest producers of his generation, he quite literally got the world dancing."...
He passed away in Britain on Saturday.
Throughout his career, Hopkins produced both Fame Academy and Fear Factor in the U.K. and he later pitched and developed competition series Strictly Come Dancing for the BBC. The show later transferred to America in the form of now-popular programme Dancing With the Stars.
He also oversaw the first season of reality series Big Brother and produced Britain's The 11 O'Clock Show, which helped to launch the careers of Ricky Gervais and Sacha Baron Cohen.
Hopkins also launched his own production company, Fever Media, with his business partner David Mortimer in 2006.
Remembering his late pal, Mortimer tells the Associated Press, "Television is, by its nature, an ephemeral business, so very few of us can hope to have any lasting legacy. Richard was a glorious exception to this rule and, as one of the greatest producers of his generation, he quite literally got the world dancing."...
- 1/9/2012
- WENN
Richard Hopkins, best known as the producer of Strictly Come Dancing, has died at the age of 47. The TV executive, who had been suffering from cancer, passed away on Saturday and is survived by his wife Katy and his three daughters, reports BBC News. After successfully pitching and developing Strictly, Hopkins sold the format to the Us and acted as executive producer of Dancing with the Stars for its first season. His other credits include Big Brother, The Big Breakfast, Fame Academy and Mastermind. Hopkins also produced Channel 4's The 11 O'Clock Show, which launched the careers of Ricky Gervais and Sacha Baron Cohen. BBC entertainment commissioning controller Mark Linsey hailed Hopkins as "one of (more)...
- 1/9/2012
- by By Paul Millar
- Digital Spy
London -- Richard Hopkins, a British television producer who helped bring "Dancing With the Stars" to the United States, has died. He was 47.
Hopkins died Saturday in Britain after an 8-month battle with cancer, Sony Music said in a statement issued Monday.
Over his 20-year career, Hopkins produced "Fame Academy" and "Fear Factor" in Britain, and worked on the first series of reality show "Big Brother" before developing, pitching and producing popular dance contest "Strictly Come Dancing" for the BBC.
He then brought the format to America, where the show was rechristened "Dancing With the Stars."
Hopkins ran the BBC's format entertainment division between 2003 and 2006, then launched Fever Media, a joint venture TV company with Sony Music.
Fever Media joint managing director David Mortimer said he felt privileged to be both business partner and friend to Hopkins.
"Television is by its nature an ephemeral business, so very few of us...
Hopkins died Saturday in Britain after an 8-month battle with cancer, Sony Music said in a statement issued Monday.
Over his 20-year career, Hopkins produced "Fame Academy" and "Fear Factor" in Britain, and worked on the first series of reality show "Big Brother" before developing, pitching and producing popular dance contest "Strictly Come Dancing" for the BBC.
He then brought the format to America, where the show was rechristened "Dancing With the Stars."
Hopkins ran the BBC's format entertainment division between 2003 and 2006, then launched Fever Media, a joint venture TV company with Sony Music.
Fever Media joint managing director David Mortimer said he felt privileged to be both business partner and friend to Hopkins.
"Television is by its nature an ephemeral business, so very few of us...
- 1/9/2012
- by AP
- Huffington Post
London -- Richard Hopkins, a British television producer who helped bring "Dancing With the Stars" to the United States, has died. He was 47.
Hopkins died Saturday in Britain after an 8-month battle with cancer, Sony Music said in a statement issued Monday.
Over his 20-year career, Hopkins produced "Fame Academy" and "Fear Factor" in Britain, and worked on the first series of reality show "Big Brother" before developing, pitching and producing popular dance contest "Strictly Come Dancing" for the BBC.
He then brought the format to America, where the show was rechristened "Dancing With the Stars."
Hopkins ran the BBC's format entertainment division between 2003 and 2006, then launched Fever Media, a joint venture TV company with Sony Music.
Fever Media joint managing director David Mortimer said he felt privileged to be both business partner and friend to Hopkins.
"Television is by its nature an ephemeral business, so very few of us...
Hopkins died Saturday in Britain after an 8-month battle with cancer, Sony Music said in a statement issued Monday.
Over his 20-year career, Hopkins produced "Fame Academy" and "Fear Factor" in Britain, and worked on the first series of reality show "Big Brother" before developing, pitching and producing popular dance contest "Strictly Come Dancing" for the BBC.
He then brought the format to America, where the show was rechristened "Dancing With the Stars."
Hopkins ran the BBC's format entertainment division between 2003 and 2006, then launched Fever Media, a joint venture TV company with Sony Music.
Fever Media joint managing director David Mortimer said he felt privileged to be both business partner and friend to Hopkins.
"Television is by its nature an ephemeral business, so very few of us...
- 1/9/2012
- by AP
- Aol TV.
Louis Walsh has described his X Factor Overs category as potential "global stars", and has specifically tipped controversial act Kitty Brucknell to have a big showbiz career. Samantha Brookes, Joseph Gilligan, Goldie Cheung, Johnny Robinson, ex-Fame Academy contestant Carolynne Poole, Jonjo Kerr, Terry Winstanley and Brucknell have all taken part in Walsh's Judges' Houses contest, which was filmed in Barcelona. Speaking about Brucknell's talent, Walsh said: "She can sing. She's very emotional and she's very ambitious. She'll do anything to be famous. She'll do anything. (more)...
- 9/26/2011
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
The 32 X Factor acts through to the Judges' Houses stage of the show have been revealed. Panelists Gary Barlow, Kelly Rowland, Tulisa Contostavlos and Louis Walsh confirmed the lineup on tonight's final Boot Camp episode. Advancing in the boys category are 18-year-old lothario Frankie Cocozza, Joe Cox, Luke Lucas, returning contestant John Wilding, barber Marcus Collins, Max Vickers, James Michael and Craig Colton. The successful Overs were named as Samantha Brookes, Joseph Gilligan, Goldie Cheung, Johnny Robinson, ex-Fame Academy contestant Carolynne Poole, Jonjo Kerr, Terry Winstanley and controversial hopeful Kitty Brucknell. Meanwhile, Amelia Lily, Misha Bryan, Holly Repton, Sian Phillips, Janet Devlin, Jade Richards, Sophie Habibis and Melanie McCabe made it to the next round in the Girls category. When it came to (more)...
- 9/25/2011
- by By Daniel Sperling
- Digital Spy
Matt Cardle teamed up with fellow talent contest winner David Sneddon for his debut album Letters. The X Factor champion and the Fame Academy winner co-wrote songs due to feature on Cardle's upcoming solo record, reports The Sun. Sneddon, who won the BBC singing competition in 2002, has removed himself from the spotlight to become a songwriter and also recently worked with Manchester band Hurts. Cardle's debut album Letters (more)...
- 8/30/2011
- by By Lewis Corner
- Digital Spy
Hotly-tipped X Factor contestant Carolynne Poole appeared on BBC One's Fame Academy in 2003, it has been revealed. Poole reached the final of the BBC talent show under her maiden name Carolynne Good, losing out to eventual winner Alex Parks and runner-up Alistair Griffin. The singer, who is married to Stockport County player David Poole, was hailed as a potential X Factor finalist by judge Tulisa Contostavlos after auditioning in Manchester at the weekend. She performed Miley Cyrus's 'The Climb' and was described as "spectacular" (more)...
- 6/15/2011
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Carloynne Poole stunned the judges at yesterday’s X Factor auditions, but it seems this is not the first reality TV show that she has applied for.
The 30 year old singer – who is married to Stockport County footballer David Poole – received high praise after she sang Miley Cyrus’ ‘The Climb’ for Gary Barlow, Tulisa Contostavlos, Kelly Rowland and Louis Walsh in Manchester yesterday, but we have discovered that she previously competed in BBC’s Fame Academy.
At the time the now Wag was not yet married and so went by the name of Carloynne Good. She reached the final of the 2003 series and a song she co-wrote with fellow contestants Alex Parks and James Fox titled “Not Your Average Kind of Girl”, was included on Parks’ 2003 debut album Introduction, which reached number 5 in the UK Top 40 Album charts.
The actress and professional songwriter – who once had a publishing contract with...
The 30 year old singer – who is married to Stockport County footballer David Poole – received high praise after she sang Miley Cyrus’ ‘The Climb’ for Gary Barlow, Tulisa Contostavlos, Kelly Rowland and Louis Walsh in Manchester yesterday, but we have discovered that she previously competed in BBC’s Fame Academy.
At the time the now Wag was not yet married and so went by the name of Carloynne Good. She reached the final of the 2003 series and a song she co-wrote with fellow contestants Alex Parks and James Fox titled “Not Your Average Kind of Girl”, was included on Parks’ 2003 debut album Introduction, which reached number 5 in the UK Top 40 Album charts.
The actress and professional songwriter – who once had a publishing contract with...
- 6/15/2011
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
Tulisa Contostavlos was reportedly impressed at yesterday’s X Factor auditions, when Wag Carolynne Poole sang for the X Factor judges.
The 30 year old beauty – who is married to Stockport County footballer David Poole – tried out for the ITV show in Manchester yesterday and is said to have wowed the panel with her version of Miley Cyrus’ The Climb.
After winning a standing ovation from the judges and the audience, Tulisa, Louis Walsh, Gary Barlow and Kelly Rowland and Louis Walsh are said to have raved about her vocal performance.
Contostavlos gushed:
“I can see you in the final.”
Barlow added: “That was absolutely spectacular. I would buy your album right now. There is so much possibility here, I’d take you in my category right now.”
“You know what? I believe we’ve found a winner.”
Carolynne once competed in BBC’s Fame Academy. You can read more details...
The 30 year old beauty – who is married to Stockport County footballer David Poole – tried out for the ITV show in Manchester yesterday and is said to have wowed the panel with her version of Miley Cyrus’ The Climb.
After winning a standing ovation from the judges and the audience, Tulisa, Louis Walsh, Gary Barlow and Kelly Rowland and Louis Walsh are said to have raved about her vocal performance.
Contostavlos gushed:
“I can see you in the final.”
Barlow added: “That was absolutely spectacular. I would buy your album right now. There is so much possibility here, I’d take you in my category right now.”
“You know what? I believe we’ve found a winner.”
Carolynne once competed in BBC’s Fame Academy. You can read more details...
- 6/15/2011
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
We're all nobody until somebody notices us, right? That's probably what Simon Cowell is hoping with the choice of Steve Jones as the co-host of the American version of his reality singing competition, "The X Factor."
Yes, the former model is well-known to British audiences thanks to appearances on a number of popular shows, including the children's variety program "T4," the "Guinness World Records Smashed!" special as well as upcoming series “Drop Zone,” “Wedding Crashers” and “101 Ways to Leave a Gameshow.”
But in America? He's as blank a slate as a guy named Ryan Seacrest was before "American Idol" launched in 2002. It's hard to remember now, but back then Seacrest was just a radio guy in Los Angeles, not the new Dick Clark with an exploding multi-media empire that threatens to swallow all of entertainment.
Same with Cat Deeley, who came to fame in the U.K. hosting Saturday morning...
Yes, the former model is well-known to British audiences thanks to appearances on a number of popular shows, including the children's variety program "T4," the "Guinness World Records Smashed!" special as well as upcoming series “Drop Zone,” “Wedding Crashers” and “101 Ways to Leave a Gameshow.”
But in America? He's as blank a slate as a guy named Ryan Seacrest was before "American Idol" launched in 2002. It's hard to remember now, but back then Seacrest was just a radio guy in Los Angeles, not the new Dick Clark with an exploding multi-media empire that threatens to swallow all of entertainment.
Same with Cat Deeley, who came to fame in the U.K. hosting Saturday morning...
- 5/9/2011
- by Gil Kaufman
- MTV Newsroom
Mary Byrne has admitted that Wagner Carillho has his eye on some unlucky lady on the X Factor tour.
The ageing Lothario had been rumoured to be chasing Byrne, eager to catch her eye and win her heart while he appeared on the ITV show. However, in a chat with Utv, the Dublin born belter revealed that Wagner was only ever interested in her friendship. She told Malachi Cush (who you may remember from BBC’s Fame Academy):
I can reveal that Wagner has an eye for somebody else. Wagner has found a good friend in me but it wasn’t me that Wagner was interested in. Wagner was interested in my friendship because we get on well and I understand him and he understands me ……he’s quite a nice guy. He can be a bit full on sometimes but he means well.
When pressed for more details on the lady’s identity,...
The ageing Lothario had been rumoured to be chasing Byrne, eager to catch her eye and win her heart while he appeared on the ITV show. However, in a chat with Utv, the Dublin born belter revealed that Wagner was only ever interested in her friendship. She told Malachi Cush (who you may remember from BBC’s Fame Academy):
I can reveal that Wagner has an eye for somebody else. Wagner has found a good friend in me but it wasn’t me that Wagner was interested in. Wagner was interested in my friendship because we get on well and I understand him and he understands me ……he’s quite a nice guy. He can be a bit full on sometimes but he means well.
When pressed for more details on the lady’s identity,...
- 3/5/2011
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
Jo Butler was evicted from the Big Brother house last night and in her exit interview with Davina, she admitted that she hadn’t been fully prepared for the reality of the Bb house.
In her pre-show vt, Jo had promised to be the cougar of the house and ensured viewers that she would be preying on all the young hot men on the show. In reality, the 41 year old was less risqué and more chaste that Christian monk Dave Vaughan.
On why she was so reserved, Jo told Davina:
“I wasn’t prepared for what it could be like in there.
“I didn’t really feel like I was getting close to anyone. I struggled with that.
“I’m used to being the outgoing one and being popular, and I struggled in there.”
She added that she didn’t fancy any of the boys in the house, saying she...
In her pre-show vt, Jo had promised to be the cougar of the house and ensured viewers that she would be preying on all the young hot men on the show. In reality, the 41 year old was less risqué and more chaste that Christian monk Dave Vaughan.
On why she was so reserved, Jo told Davina:
“I wasn’t prepared for what it could be like in there.
“I didn’t really feel like I was getting close to anyone. I struggled with that.
“I’m used to being the outgoing one and being popular, and I struggled in there.”
She added that she didn’t fancy any of the boys in the house, saying she...
- 8/14/2010
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
Former Destiny’s Child singer Kelly Rowlands has hinted that she may appear as a judge on the upcoming season of X Factor.
Regular judge Dannii Minogue will miss the audition rounds of the show starting next month and Simon Cowell is reportedly looking for one or a number of celebrities to replace her on the panel.
Could Kelly be one of those people? In a recent interview she said that she loves the mentoring system in place on X Factor.
“I love X Factor and I think one of the things I love about X Factor is the fact that you get a chance to mentor the artists as well,” the 29-year-old told The Hits Radio.
“I’ve watched Simon and Dannii and everybody do that on the show and I think that’s one of the things I love about that show the most.”
She added: “Anything could happen,...
Regular judge Dannii Minogue will miss the audition rounds of the show starting next month and Simon Cowell is reportedly looking for one or a number of celebrities to replace her on the panel.
Could Kelly be one of those people? In a recent interview she said that she loves the mentoring system in place on X Factor.
“I love X Factor and I think one of the things I love about X Factor is the fact that you get a chance to mentor the artists as well,” the 29-year-old told The Hits Radio.
“I’ve watched Simon and Dannii and everybody do that on the show and I think that’s one of the things I love about that show the most.”
She added: “Anything could happen,...
- 5/29/2010
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
Can suicide bombers be funny? Chris Morris thinks so. As he releases his first feature film, he gives a rare interview to Xan Brooks
Two men sit shoulder-to-shoulder against a bright white wall. They are young and cheerful, at ease in each other's company. They clown around, try a hat on for size and direct dopey grins at the camera. The prevailing mood is one of jollity, and yet what we are witnessing are the rushes from a martyrdom video, shot at Osama bin Laden's farmhouse in January 2000. The man on the right is Mohamed Atta, ringleader of the 11 September hijackers. His buddy on the left is Ziad Jarrah, who piloted the United 93 flight that came down in a Pennsylvania cornfield, killing everyone on board.
Fast-forward a decade. Chris Morris and I are sitting shoulder-to-shoulder in a London production office, staring at the screen of a scuffed white laptop.
Two men sit shoulder-to-shoulder against a bright white wall. They are young and cheerful, at ease in each other's company. They clown around, try a hat on for size and direct dopey grins at the camera. The prevailing mood is one of jollity, and yet what we are witnessing are the rushes from a martyrdom video, shot at Osama bin Laden's farmhouse in January 2000. The man on the right is Mohamed Atta, ringleader of the 11 September hijackers. His buddy on the left is Ziad Jarrah, who piloted the United 93 flight that came down in a Pennsylvania cornfield, killing everyone on board.
Fast-forward a decade. Chris Morris and I are sitting shoulder-to-shoulder in a London production office, staring at the screen of a scuffed white laptop.
- 4/30/2010
- by Xan Brooks
- The Guardian - Film News
Former Fame Academy star Lemar has joined forces with X Factor’s Jls on his latest song ‘What About Love.’ The song is included on his new best of album ‘The Hits’.
The five vocalists gave a fabulous live performance of the song on tonight’s Sport Relief. The heartfelt lyrics combined with the Vt of all those ill and poor children really made us emotional! Donate people donate!
Check out some behind the scenes footage of the boys recording the album track below.
Related posts:Let’s Dance For Sport Relief 2010: Who is dancing in show three?Cheryl Fergison can’t do Ice Ice Baby on Let’s Dance For Sport Relief 2010Let’s Dance For Sport Relief 2010: Cheryl Fergison said blonde wig confuses sonLet’s Dance For Sport Relief 2010: Kate Garraway may be unable to perform tonightX Factor: Cheryl Cole won’t have Derek Hough dancing...
The five vocalists gave a fabulous live performance of the song on tonight’s Sport Relief. The heartfelt lyrics combined with the Vt of all those ill and poor children really made us emotional! Donate people donate!
Check out some behind the scenes footage of the boys recording the album track below.
Related posts:Let’s Dance For Sport Relief 2010: Who is dancing in show three?Cheryl Fergison can’t do Ice Ice Baby on Let’s Dance For Sport Relief 2010Let’s Dance For Sport Relief 2010: Cheryl Fergison said blonde wig confuses sonLet’s Dance For Sport Relief 2010: Kate Garraway may be unable to perform tonightX Factor: Cheryl Cole won’t have Derek Hough dancing...
- 3/19/2010
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
British R&B star Lemar was forced to delay the release of his latest album - because the wrong record name was printed on the cover. The "Dance (With U)" hitmaker, who was discovered on British talent show "Fame Academy" in 2002, was due to release "The Hits" compilation on Monday, March 1.
But it will be hitting the shops a week later, on March 8 now - after record company bosses noticed the printers had missed off the word 'Hits' from the title, leaving just 'The' as the album's name.
Although he reached third place in "Fame Academy", Lemar succeed in winning contract with Sony Records. He then released his first studio album "Dedicated" in 2003. His second single "Dance (With U)" reached a second place on the UK Singles Chart in early 2003. The next year, he won Best Urban Act at Brit Awards.
But it will be hitting the shops a week later, on March 8 now - after record company bosses noticed the printers had missed off the word 'Hits' from the title, leaving just 'The' as the album's name.
Although he reached third place in "Fame Academy", Lemar succeed in winning contract with Sony Records. He then released his first studio album "Dedicated" in 2003. His second single "Dance (With U)" reached a second place on the UK Singles Chart in early 2003. The next year, he won Best Urban Act at Brit Awards.
- 3/2/2010
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.