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Revamped 'X Factor' Scores Lowest Ratings In 10 Years, But ITV Have No Plans To Axe It


Simon Cowell The X Factor Sharon Osbourne Nicole Scherzinger Louis Walsh Dermot O'Leary

The ‘x factor’s’ return on Saturday night gave the ITV talent show its lowest ratings for a series opener in 10 years, despite the revamped judging panel. On Saturday night Nicole Scherzinger, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh all returned to the show as judges, alongside Simon Cowell, while Dermot O’Leary was back as host.

Simon Cowell‘X Factor’ judge Simon Cowell

But the much hyped return of the fan-favourite judges didn't give the show the ratings boost it had hoped for. On Saturday night 6.8 million viewers tuned in, which was 800,000 down from last year's launch episode and the lowest numbers for a series opener since 2005.

Continue reading: Revamped 'X Factor' Scores Lowest Ratings In 10 Years, But ITV Have No Plans To Axe It

'The X Factor' Viewing Figures Down 800,000 On Last Year


The X Factor Simon Cowell Louis Walsh Sharon Osbourne Nicole Scherzinger

The X Factor’s return to the nation’s TV screens did not go as ITV bosses had planned, with overnight viewing figures for the singing contest’s first episode down to the show’s lowest ratings in more than ten years.

The return of ‘The X Factor’, with an almost entirely overhauled judging panel and presenting team, on Saturday night (August 27th) was viewed by an average 6.8 million people – representing a drop of 800,000 compared to the launch episode from 2015’s series.

It represented a 34% audience share, up against a feature-length 30th anniversary episode of ‘Casaulty’ on BBC1. This is also down on the 39% audience share from 2015.

Continue reading: 'The X Factor' Viewing Figures Down 800,000 On Last Year

Simon Cowell And Sharon Osbourne Miss 'The X Factor' Launch Event


The X Factor Simon Cowell Sharon Osbourne Dermot O'Leary Louis Walsh Nicole Scherzinger

The new series of ‘The X Factor’ seems to have gotten off to an inauspicious start, after judges Simon Cowell and Sharon Osbourne failed to show up for the 13th series’ launch event this week.

56 year old Simon and 63 year old Sharon were both no-shows at the central London hotel on Thursday night (August 25th), as the other two judges Nicole Scherzinger and Louis Walsh were left to do press commitments.

Cowell is currently busy with the final stages of ‘America’s Got Talent’ and was obviously unavailable, but Osbourne’s excuse was ‘filming commitments’ – whatever that means.

Continue reading: Simon Cowell And Sharon Osbourne Miss 'The X Factor' Launch Event

Louis Walsh Says One Direction Won't Get Back Together For Ten Years


One Direction Louis Walsh The X Factor

Prepare yourselves for some bad news, Directioners…

Louis Walsh has claimed in a brand new interview that not only are One Direction not about to reunite any time soon, but also that it could be at least 10 years before they’ll consider doing so.

The 64 year old Irish pop mogul, who was a judge on ‘The X Factor’ when 1D were discovered back in 2010 and who is returning to the ITV singing contest this year, gave an interview to The Telegraph on Thursday (August 25th) and said that it was extremely unlikely that the band would get back together after their hiatus, as they had promised fans.

Continue reading: Louis Walsh Says One Direction Won't Get Back Together For Ten Years

Dermot O'Leary Says Simon Cowell Admitted He "Made A Mistake" With 'X Factor' Exit


Dermot O'Leary Simon Cowell The X Factor

Dermot O’Leary has revealed that ‘x factor’ boss Simon Cowell admitted he’d made a mistake by letting him leave the ITV talent show last year. Now back as host, Dermot confirmed that his exit last March was because he'd heard bosses were “looking at other ­presenters”.

Dermot O''LearyDermot O’Leary is back as the host of ‘X Factor’

Speaking to The Sun, Dermot said that he got a phone call from Simon in February, where the music mogul told him: “I’ve made a mistake, I’d love to get you back.” Dermot then flew to Hollywood to meet Simon where they spent three hours “chatting about the show and life in general”.

Continue reading: Dermot O'Leary Says Simon Cowell Admitted He "Made A Mistake" With 'X Factor' Exit

'The X Factor' Confirms Return Date: What We Know So Far


The X Factor Simon Cowell Sharon Osbourne Louis Walsh Nicole Scherzinger Dermot O'Leary

ITV have confirmed that the new series of ‘The X Factor’ will return on Saturday 27 August 2016 at 8pm and Sunday 28 August at 8pm. The new series sees the return of original judges Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh, as well as former judge Nicole Scherzinger, alongside Simon Cowell.

Simon Cowell and Nicole ScherzingerJudges Simon Cowell and Nicole Scherzinger

A short teaser for the series has also been released, giving a glimpse of some hopefuls as well as the judges’ reactions, set to Girls Aloud’s ‘Something Kinda Ooh’. The show will be hoping to return to form this series after suffering low ratings last year.

Continue reading: 'The X Factor' Confirms Return Date: What We Know So Far

Louis Walsh Lambasts Rita Ora's Performance On Last Year's 'The X Factor'


Louis Walsh Rita Ora Nick Grimshaw The X Factor Simon Cowell

Ahead of his return to ‘The X Factor’, judge Louis Walsh has criticised the choice of Rita Ora for the talent’s disastrous series last year, saying the 25 year old pop star “didn’t know a thing” about talent and that she turned it into a “fashion show”.

Walsh, 63, is coming back to the ITV singing contest after a year away, and is returning alongside fellow former judges Sharon Osbourne and Nicole Scherzinger. He spoke to Best magazine on Wednesday (August 3rd) and lambasted the decision to have both Cheryl Fernandez-Versini (who has also quit the programme) and Ora on the same panel, saying that he advised against the move at the time.

Rita OraRita Ora departed 'The X Factor' after just one season earlier this year

Continue reading: Louis Walsh Lambasts Rita Ora's Performance On Last Year's 'The X Factor'

Rylan Clark-Neal Revealed As Matt Edmondon's Co-Host On 'The Xtra Factor'


Rylan Clark The X Factor

Former ‘x factor’ star Rylan Clark-Neal has been unveiled as Matt Edmondson’s co-host on the singing contest’s sister show ‘The Xtra Factor’ when it returns later this year.

The news was teased during Friday morning’s edition of ‘This Morning’, when hosts Philip Schofield and Holly Willoughby gave Clark-Neal a bit of a ribbing during his showbiz news bulletin. When he announced that Edmondson would be one of the hosts, Philip and Holly jumped in and said that there might be “more legs” to the story – leaving him momentarily silenced before moving on.

Rylan Clark NealRylan Clark-Neal will be Matt Edmondson's co-host on 'The Xtra Factor'

Continue reading: Rylan Clark-Neal Revealed As Matt Edmondon's Co-Host On 'The Xtra Factor'

Mel B Replacing Nicole Scherzinger On 'The X Factor' Auditions


Mel B Nicole Scherzinger The X Factor Simon Cowell

Mel B is to temporarily replace Nicole Scherzinger as a judge on ‘The X Factor’ after “other commitments” forced the former Pussycat Doll to cancel appearances at the show’s auditions this summer.

Scherzinger has cited a “diary clash” that had been set up before she agreed to return to the panel of ‘The X Factor’ last month, and therefore she won’t be present at the London auditions on Friday (June 17th). Instead, the former Spice Girl – also previously a judge on the 2014 series of the reality show – will be taking her place for the day.

Mel BMel B is to temporarily stand in for Nicole Scherzinger on 'The X Factor' auditions

Continue reading: Mel B Replacing Nicole Scherzinger On 'The X Factor' Auditions

Leona Lewis Dropped From Her Record Label Island


Leona Lewis Simon Cowell The X Factor

Leona Lewis has been dropped by her record label Island after just over two years, following the disappointing commercial performance of her last album I Am.

The 31 year old English singer, who won the third series of ‘The X Factor’ in 2006 and has long been one of the most successful stars produced by that show, departed Simon Cowell’s Syco label in June 2014 and signed to rival Island. However, when the resulting record was released in September, it flopped.

Leona LewisLeona Lewis has been dropped by Island Records, just two years after switching to them from Syco

Continue reading: Leona Lewis Dropped From Her Record Label Island

Nicole Scherzinger Reportedly Earning £125,000 More Than Sharon Osbourne For 'X Factor' Return


Nicole Scherzinger Sharon Osbourne Louis Walsh The X Factor Simon Cowell

Nicole Scherzinger is reportedly set to pocket £125,000 more than fellow returning ‘x factor’ judge Sharon Osbourne. According to The Mirror the former Pussycat Doll will earn just over £1.8million for the new 'X Factor' series while Sharon will get £1.7million.

Nicole ScherzingerNicole Scherzinger is reportedly being paid more than Sharon Osbourne for her ‘X Factor’ return.

Sources told the newspaper that the revelation will come as a shock to Sharon, as she was assured that she would be the highest-paid judge after head Simon Cowell. They added that Sharon had only decided to sign the contract once her demand was agreed.

Continue reading: Nicole Scherzinger Reportedly Earning £125,000 More Than Sharon Osbourne For 'X Factor' Return

Louis Walsh Says He "Knew" 'The X Factor' Would Suffer In The Ratings Last Year


Louis Walsh The X Factor

With his return to ‘The X Factor’ confirmed after just one season absent from the judging panel, Louis Walsh has made his feelings very clear about the shortcomings of the show’s ill-fated 2015 series, which pulled in record-low ratings for several episodes.

The 63 year old spoke to BBC Radio 2 on Thursday morning (June 9th), and revealed what he thought about last year’s series, which is the only one he’s been absent from since ‘The X Factor’ launched in 2004.

Louis WalshLouis Walsh says he "knew" right from the first show that last year's 'X Factor' "wasn't going to work"

Continue reading: Louis Walsh Says He "Knew" 'The X Factor' Would Suffer In The Ratings Last Year

Sharon Osbourne, Nicole Scherzinger And Louis Walsh Confirm 'X Factor Return'


Sharon Osbourne Nicole Scherzinger Louis Walsh Simon Cowell The X Factor

It was probably the worst kept secret in television, but this year’s ‘x factor’ judging panel has finally been confirmed with Sharon Osbourne, Nicole Scherzinger and Louis Walsh all making a comeback. The three former judges will join Simon Cowell when the show returns later this year and he'll no doubt be hoping the familiar faces will bring back viewers after last series’ low ratings.

Continue reading: Sharon Osbourne, Nicole Scherzinger And Louis Walsh Confirm 'X Factor Return'

Frankie Cocozza Hits Out At 'X Factor' Bosses For Revealing Drug Use Story


Frankie Cocozza The X Factor

Former ‘X Factor’ star Frankie Cocozza has lashed out at bosses of the reality singing contest for revealing his problems with addiction, and accused them of lying to him.

The 23 year old appeared on ‘This Morning’ on Thursday (May 19th), and spoke about the drug abuse claims which led to him being kicked off ‘The X Factor’ back in 2011, revealing that ITV bosses had assured him that details of the scandal would not be get out into the public domain.

“The whole cocaine thing, there was no proof or anything. I don't know why they decided to release that,” he told presenters Holly Willoughby and Philip Schofield.

Continue reading: Frankie Cocozza Hits Out At 'X Factor' Bosses For Revealing Drug Use Story

Mel B Talks Possible 'X Factor' Return, Spice Girls Reunion


Mel B The X Factor Spice Girls

Mel B has expressed an interest in returning to be a judge on ‘The X Factor’ now that three vacancies have opened up on the panel, following Rita Ora’s recent departure.

The former Spice Girl, 40, was a judge on the ITV singing competition for just one season back in 2014, but in the wake of massive changes to the show over the last few months that have seen Ora, Nick Grimshaw and long-time judge Cheryl Fernandez-Versini all depart as well as co-hosts Caroline Flack and Olly Murs, many are tipping her for a return.

“I’d always love to be part of ‘The X Factor’, it was a great show,” she said during her appearance on ‘Lorraine’ on Wednesday morning (May 11th). “Is there a space? This happens every year, it’s always up in the air.”

Continue reading: Mel B Talks Possible 'X Factor' Return, Spice Girls Reunion

Rita Ora Confirms Departure From 'The X Factor' After Only One Series


Rita Ora The X Factor

The X Factor’ is to experience yet more change on-set as Rita Ora has confirmed that she’s stepped down as a judge on the singing competition after just one series.

Her departure, which had been rumoured for some time but given more impetus by a report in The Sun on Monday (May 9th), means that the 25 year old British singer is the third person to quit the judging panel from the last series, which ended in December 2015 amid some of the lowest ratings ‘The X Factor’ has ever received.

Rita OraRita Ora has quit 'The X Factor' after just one season

Continue reading: Rita Ora Confirms Departure From 'The X Factor' After Only One Series

Louis Tomlinson Speaks About First-Time Fatherhood; Expresses Interest In 'The X Factor'


Louis Tomlinson Brit Awards The X Factor

Louis Tomlinson has opened up about fatherhood, describing being a dad to his newborn son Freddie as “intense” but “exciting”.

The 24 year old One Direction singer attended the Brit Awards in London on Wednesday night (February 24th) and accepted the prize for Best Video, as voted for by the public, for last year’s single ‘Drag Me Down’.

In 2016, Tomlinson has been getting to grips with first-time fatherhood since his ex-girlfriend Brianna Jungwirth gave birth to their son, Freddie Reign, back in January. Speaking to ITV2 outside the O2 Arena, he said that “[Fatherhood] is good. It's intense. It's really exciting. This is my first time away from Freddie so it's tough.”

Continue reading: Louis Tomlinson Speaks About First-Time Fatherhood; Expresses Interest In 'The X Factor'

Katie Price Interested In Becoming The Next Presenter Of 'The X Factor'


Katie Price The X Factor

In the wake of yet another departure from ‘The X Factor’ with the news that Olly Murs is following his co-host Caroline Flack out of the door, Katie Price has thrown her hat into the ring today by expressing an interest in presenting the ITV show.

Former glamour model Price, now a panellist on daytime chat show ‘Loose Women’, took to Twitter to put her name forward as a possible replacement for Murs and Flack, who have quit just one season after taking over from Dermot O’Leary and who have attracted a great deal of criticism for their presentation style.

Katie PriceCould Katie Price become the next 'X Factor' presenter?

Continue reading: Katie Price Interested In Becoming The Next Presenter Of 'The X Factor'

Nick Grimshaw And Caroline Flack Axed From 'The X Factor'


The X Factor Caroline Flack Nick Grimshaw Simon Cowell Olly Murs Louis Tomlinson

In the wake of the poor ratings it suffered last year, Simon Cowell has made changes to ‘The X Factor’ by axing co-presenter Caroline Flack, soon after Nick Grimshaw confirmed that he had quit the judging panel of his own accord.

According to The Sun, 36 year old Flack is said to have paid the price for the criticism that she and co-host Olly Murs received as they presented the ITV show for the first time last year. The final episode averaged viewing figures of only 5.95 million, amid flagging ratings plaguing the whole series, and it’s not clear that Murs will keep his place either as the pair were frequently criticised for making mistakes.

Nick GrimshawNick Grimshaw has quit 'The X Factor' after just one series

Continue reading: Nick Grimshaw And Caroline Flack Axed From 'The X Factor'

'The X Factor' Is Apparently NOT Being Axed By ITV, Despite Rumours


The X Factor Simon Cowell

ITV may have burst the dreams of millions of music fans, with reports that ‘The X Factor’ will not be facing the axe despite its low ratings last year. Simon Cowell’s show seems to have earned a stay of execution from the network’s bosses, and will continue until at least 2017.

Recent reports had suggested that, with ‘The Voice’ moving from BBC to ITV next year, ‘The X Factor’ would be rested in 2017. “[ITV] will rest ‘The X Factor’ for 2017 because there is no way they can run two singing contests and ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ in the same year, they cannot do it,” a source had told the Daily Mail earlier this week, implying that the network would effectively use it as insurance.

Simon CowellSimon Cowell's 'X Factor' has reportedly been under the threat of being axed by ITV

Continue reading: 'The X Factor' Is Apparently NOT Being Axed By ITV, Despite Rumours

Justin Bieber Urges Fans To Buy NHS Choir's Single To Get It To Christmas Number 1


Justin Bieber The X Factor

With the race for this year’s Christmas Number One single closer than ever, the current leader of the pack Justin Bieber has selflessly urged his fans to buy the track by his nearest competitor, the NHS choir.

On Wednesday (December 23rd), it was revealed that the Canadian singer’s latest hit ‘Love Yourself’ was ahead of the health charity choir by just 662 combined sales with just two days to go. The Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Choir’s song ‘A Bridge Over You’, a combination of Coldplay’s ‘Fix You’ and Simon & Garfunkel’s ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’, has taken the charts by storm, and Bieber has recognised the charitable cause they’re supporting and has told his fans to get behind the choir instead.

Justin BieberJustin Bieber has urged his fans to buy the NHS choir's single

Continue reading: Justin Bieber Urges Fans To Buy NHS Choir's Single To Get It To Christmas Number 1

Justin Bieber Leading The Race For Christmas Number One In Midweek Charts


Justin Bieber The X Factor Stormzy

Justin Bieber is ahead by a nose in the annual chart battle for Christmas Number One in the UK, with his current single ‘Love Yourself’ fractionally outselling an NHS choir at the halfway point in the sales week ending on Christmas Day.

According to the Official Charts Company on Monday (December 21st), the Canadian singer is leading by combined sales of just 3,000 copies from Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Choir’s song ‘A Bridge Over You’.

Justin BieberJustin Bieber is leading the race for the UK Christmas Number One single

Continue reading: Justin Bieber Leading The Race For Christmas Number One In Midweek Charts

Olly Murs Dismisses Suggestion He Was Offended By Rita Ora's 'Snub'


Rita Ora Olly Murs The X Factor Caroline Flack

Though some have speculated that he was severely disheartened by Rita Ora’s apparent ‘snub’ during ‘The X Factor’ final at the weekend, Olly Murs has insisted that he wasn’t annoyed by the judge’s implication that he hadn’t made an “impression” on the charts.

After Louisa Johnson had scooped the grand prize on Sunday night’s live final (December 13th), Ora had proclaimed that only she and 2006 winner Leona Lewis had made any impact on the charts. While the audience applauded the obviously untrue statement (erm, One Direction?), 2009 runner-up Murs was said to have looked upset at the backhanded insult.

Olly MursOlly Murs says he wasn't offended by Rita Ora's 'snub'

Continue reading: Olly Murs Dismisses Suggestion He Was Offended By Rita Ora's 'Snub'

'The X Factor' Not Included In The Most Watched TV Shows Of 2015


The X Factor

The low ratings that have plagued the most recent series of ‘The X Factor’ have been confirmed in the annual list of the most-watched TV programmes of the year, with the reality singing contestant failing to make the top 40.

The twelfth series of the show, which was won by Louisa Johnson in the final on Sunday night (December 13th), ranked below its sister talent contest ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ in the list, as well as a slew of BBC programmes including seven separate episodes of ‘The Great British Bake Off’, including the top position and numbers three through eight, and twelve episodes of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.

Louisa JohnsonLouisa Johnson won 'The X Factor', but the show didn't feature in the list of the Top 40 most-watched programmes of 2015

Continue reading: 'The X Factor' Not Included In The Most Watched TV Shows Of 2015

Rylan Clark Dismisses Claims He And Emma Willis Could Be New 'X Factor' Presenters


Rylan Clark Emma Griffiths Caroline Flack Olly Murs The X Factor

Rylan Clark has denied recent rumours that he and Emma Willis are due to replace Caroline Flack and Olly Murs as co-presenters of ‘The X Factor’ next year.

Reports emerged last Friday (December 11th), first reported by the Daily Star, indicated that Simon Cowell was in the mood to shake up the ITV show ahead of the 2016 edition. Murs, 31, and Flack, 36, have co-presented for just one series, after they replaced long-time host Dermot O’Leary earlier this year.

Caroline FlackCaroline Flack could be on her way out as presenter of 'The X Factor', if reports are true

Continue reading: Rylan Clark Dismisses Claims He And Emma Willis Could Be New 'X Factor' Presenters

Could Rita Ora Be Leaving 'The X Factor' After Only One Series?


Rita Ora The X Factor Nick Grimshaw Simon Cowell

She may have joined the judging panel just this year, but Rita Ora has hinted that she’ll be quitting ‘The X Factor’ after only one series in the aftermath of her prodigy Louisa Johnson winning the competition this weekend.

“As a new judge it's a good way to leave the show,” said Rita, when she spoke to the series’ spin-off TV show ‘Xtra Factor’ viewers on Sunday night (December 13th) alongside Louisa herself, who became the youngest contestant ever to win the competition at the age of 17.

“I really can't put it into words," added Louisa. “It doesn't even feel real. It feels crazy. I just appreciated everyone keeping me in here. I've got the most loyal supporters ever, I can't thank them enough.”

Continue reading: Could Rita Ora Be Leaving 'The X Factor' After Only One Series?

Olly Murs And Caroline Flack Share A Kiss At The Cosmopolitan Awards


Caroline Flack Olly Murs The X Factor

Olly Murs and Caroline Flack’s ‘are they / aren’t they’ relationship has been one of the biggest talking points of this year’s ‘x factor’, but now the pair have finally given audiences what they’ve wanted, as they shared a kiss in a photobooth at the Cosmopolitan Awards.

The pair have kept ‘X Factor’ viewers guessing about the true nature of their relationship for the last couple of months, after Olly split with his long-term girlfriend Francesca Thomas at the end of September.

However, the final shot of the photobooth reel as the pair celebrated Caroline’s Ultimate TV Personality win at the awards seemed to indicate that they might be more than just friends, as Caroline posted the photos on her Instagram page on Wednesday night (December 2nd).

Continue reading: Olly Murs And Caroline Flack Share A Kiss At The Cosmopolitan Awards

'X Factor' Reject Mason Noise Says He Wasn't In The Show To Win


The X Factor Nick Grimshaw Simon Cowell Piers Morgan

Upon his exit from ‘The X Factor’ – for good, this time – eliminated contestant Mason Noise has said that he wasn’t taking part in the show to win and that he’s “relieved” to have left.

Having already been granted a reprieve five weeks ago by being brought back by judge Nick Grimshaw, after fellow hopeful Tom Bleasby unexpectedly dropped out of the show voluntarily, the controversial 21 year old was finally voted off the show having received the least amount of support from the public on Sunday (November 22nd).

Mason NoiseMason Noise, who was eliminated from 'The X Factor' on Sunday (Nov 22)

Continue reading: 'X Factor' Reject Mason Noise Says He Wasn't In The Show To Win

Olly Murs Says His 'X Factor' Mistake Has Been "Blown Out Of Proportion"


Olly Murs The X Factor Caroline Flack Simon Cowell

Having apologised profusely for his hideous gaffe during last weekend’s episode of ‘The X Factor’, co-presenter Olly Murs has hit back against criticism of him, saying that the blunder has now been “massively blown out of proportion”.

On last Sunday’s episode (November 15th), Murs accidentally announced that contestant Monica Michael was going home before the actual result was announced that evening, leading to a huge backlash of criticism directed at him, with some speculating that he might even get fired, though he tweeted a quick apology for his “massive f*** up” via Twitter the same night.

Caroline Flack Olly MursCaroline Flack and Olly Murs, 'The X Factor' co-presenters

Continue reading: Olly Murs Says His 'X Factor' Mistake Has Been "Blown Out Of Proportion"

Louis Walsh Claims Simon Cowell Persuaded Him NOT To Appear In 'I'm A Celebrity'


Louis Walsh Simon Cowell The X Factor

Former ‘x factor’ judge Louis Walsh has revealed that he was in fact extremely close to signing up for ‘I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!’ this year, but that a phone call from his former colleague Simon Cowell persuaded him from going through with it.

“I was supposed to be doing it. I met them three times, I was nearly going,” the 63 year old music mogul said at Sony Bravia TV’s YouView feature launch. “Simon told me he didn't think it would be good for my credibility. He actually talked me out of it. Otherwise I was going to do it.”

Louis WalshLouis Walsh was talked out of 'I'm A Celebrity...' by Simon Cowell

Continue reading: Louis Walsh Claims Simon Cowell Persuaded Him NOT To Appear In 'I'm A Celebrity'

Video - X Factor's Stereo Kicks Left Confused By Fan Questions Outside London Studio - Part 4


One member of Stereo Kicks is left bewildered as a female fan quizzes him outside a rehearsal studio with the group in London. 'Guess who's birthday it is. Not today, but soon', asks the girl. Looking genuinely confused, he replies, 'I dunno!' before the girl says with a giggle, 'Are you actually joking?' It isn't made clear who's birthday it is.

Continue: Video - X Factor's Stereo Kicks Left Confused By Fan Questions Outside London Studio - Part 4

Video - Fans Arrange Regular Visits For X Factor's Stereo Kicks Outside A Rehearsal Studio - Part 3


One member of 8-piece 'x factor' boy band Stereo Kicks is seen talking to a group of female fans and taking photos with them as the band appear outside a rehearsal studio in London. He informs the girls that 'We're not there on Thursdays anymore', as they ponder when they can schedule regular visits. They finally settle on Fridays as he confirms that he will indeed be rehearsing at the London studio during that time.

Continue: Video - Fans Arrange Regular Visits For X Factor's Stereo Kicks Outside A Rehearsal Studio - Part 3

Video - X Factor's Stereo Kicks Pose For Photos With Persistent Fans - Part 1


'The X Factor' series 11 hopefuls, eight man boy band Stereo Kicks, were accosted by a very persistent fan and her friends outside their London rehearsal studio. One fan insisted that one of the boy band members holds her hands as her friends took a photo, while screaming 'Look at me!' as he appeared confused and distracted. She then hugs him and holds his face for another photo as he remarks, 'This is going to be in the bloody papers tomorrow!'

Continue: Video - X Factor's Stereo Kicks Pose For Photos With Persistent Fans - Part 1

'X-Factor' Musical 'I Can't Sing' Becomes West End's Guilty Pleasure


The X Factor Simon Cowell Harry Hill

You would have been forgiven for completely forgetting about Harry Hill's X-Factor musical 'I Can't Sing', with that bloke from Eastenders playing Simon Cowell, but it's finally here - and the critics are having their say.

Harry Hill Simon CowellSimon Cowell [center] and Harry Hill [R] 

Cowell is actually listed as co-producer of the new musical - which opened at the London Palladium on Wednesday (March 26, 2014) - and the reports had suggested this would be one big fat satirical takedown of the mega-bucks talent show that he created. However, as Michael Billington of The Guardian writes, it's actually "uneasily pitched between send-up and celebration."

Continue reading: 'X-Factor' Musical 'I Can't Sing' Becomes West End's Guilty Pleasure

Cheryl Cole Confirms X-Factor Return, But Is It Too Late?


Cheryl Cole The X Factor Simon Cowell

Cheryl Cole - one of the biggest celebrity names in the UK despite taking several years out of the limelight - has confirmed she is returning to The X-Factor UK after signing a reported £1.5 million deal.  Cole fell out with series creator Simon Cowell after he sacked her from The X-Factor USA after just weeks in the job. The American version of Cowell's hugely successful UK singing show struggled for ratings and was eventually cancelled.

Cheryl ColeCheryl Cole Is Returning to the X-Factor UK

Cowell has signalled his intention to return to the UK judging panel and appears to have convinced Cheryl to join him. Though the media had a field day with the apparent bad blood between the pair following the stateside debacle, it's clear that relations have been far more civil and Cowell will no doubt will be using the quasi-feud to sell the latest season of the show. 

Continue reading: Cheryl Cole Confirms X-Factor Return, But Is It Too Late?

X-Factor Viewer? Yeah, Chris O'Dowd Thinks You're A Racist.


Chris O'Dowd The X Factor

The Bridesmaids actor Chris O'Dowd says he is a "big x factor fan" though feels for black contestants because the "the viewing public is so racist." The 34-year-old made the comment during an interview to the Radio Times, saying, "Generally my favourites go out in the first few weeks and, of course, because the viewing public is so racist, all the black, strong singers go out in round five."

Chris O'DowdChris O'Dowd Thinks YOU'RE A RACIST, X Factor Viewer.

Last year's contestant Hannah Barrett had received racist abuse while appearing on the show and spoke out about the importance of addressing the issues of race and appearance in the music industry.

Continue reading: X-Factor Viewer? Yeah, Chris O'Dowd Thinks You're A Racist.

Who's In Pole Position For The UK Christmas No.1 - AC/DC Or The X-Factor Winner?


The X Factor Sam Bailey

The Christmas number one single has become as much a part of the festive season as the television, food, gifts and family dramas. But the best part of the Christmas single is trying to guess who’s going to get the top spot, and taking a look at the odds makes it that little bit easier.

Sam Bailey X-FactorSam Bailey is favourite for the X-Factor crown, and by extension, the Christmas #1

Rockers AC/DC were the favourites to attain that coveted festive number one spot, but the recent announcement that all proceeds from the X-Factor Christmas single will be going to children’s charities – Together For Short Lives and Great Ormond Street – has put the ITV talent show in pole position.

Continue reading: Who's In Pole Position For The UK Christmas No.1 - AC/DC Or The X-Factor Winner?

Is There A Market For Sam Callahan After X-Factor Elimination?


The X Factor Gary Barlow

Sam Callahan, the latest contestant to be voted out of The X-Factor, says he is eager to continue his music career despite relentless criticism from the judges on the ITV talent show.

"People are going to doubt you in this industry," the 19-year-old said after being axed on Sunday's show, "I have a belief in myself because I know what I'm capable of when I do the right thing. I believe in my career."

Judge Gary Barlow had suggested that several of the already-axed X-Factor contestants had been stronger than Callahan, though the young singer merely took the negative comments as constructive criticism.

Continue reading: Is There A Market For Sam Callahan After X-Factor Elimination?

'The X Factor' Renewed For A Few More Years, But Will Simon Come Back?


The X Factor Simon Cowell

The X Factor is set to be around for at least another three years thanks to the new £150 million contract signed by Simon Cowell.

The music mogul has also firmly set talent show 'Britain's Got Talent' in place until 2016 and, although we know that he'll be coming back for that, there's still uncertainty as to whether or not he'll be making appearances back on the 'The X Factor' any time soon since he left to take it to the USA.

Over here, the ratings are through the roof for the singing show, but they've dropped by almost half across the pond which may see Cowell return home for future series'.

Continue reading: 'The X Factor' Renewed For A Few More Years, But Will Simon Come Back?

Nicole Scherzinger's X-Factor Future In Doubt, Though Girls Look Strong


Nicole Scherzinger The X Factor Sharon Osbourne One Direction Pussycat Dolls Katy Perry Robin Thicke

The future of Nicole Scherzinger as a judge and mentor on The X Factor looks in doubt after reports circulated that she is ready to begin focusing on her music career again. Scherzinger's agent was probably delighted to tie up a guest judging deal with the ITV singing show in 2010 though she's since outgrown the show and is now considered the most popular member of the panel.

Nicole ScherzingerNicole Scherzinger Is Said To Be Leaving The X-Factor After The Current Series

According to the Daily Star, Scherzinger made the decision months ago though kept it a secret until Sharon Osbourne revealed the news in her new autobiography published last Thursday. 

Continue reading: Nicole Scherzinger's X-Factor Future In Doubt, Though Girls Look Strong

Has Tamera Foster, 16, Already Won The X-Factor?


Nicole Scherzinger The X Factor

Tamera Foster, 16, who made it into Nicole Scherzinger’s final three during Sunday’s X-Factor judges houses episode, is the hot favorite to win the show.

Foster, from Gravesend, Kent, is the 5/2 frontrunner to win the show though has already risked angering show bosses after hiring the services of a budding public relations man, Joshante Amihyia, who is also her boyfriend.

According to the Daily Star, Amihyia has been accompanying Foster to various commercial engagements, including photo-shoots not connected with The X-Factor. His Instagram and Facebook profiles appear to show him stepping out of chauffeur-driven sports cars, bragging about big-money business deals and posing with giant champagne bottles.

Continue reading: Has Tamera Foster, 16, Already Won The X-Factor?

Dermot Confirms Gary Barlow Will Leave X-Factor, But Is Simon Coming Back?


The X Factor Gary Barlow Dermot O'Leary

Dermot O'Leary, the host of The X Factor, has confirmed that the forthcoming series of the singing show will be Gary Barlow's last.

Speaking at the premiere of One Direction: This Is Us, the popular host was quizzed on speculation that Simon Cowell may be considering a return to the UK panel. 

"If Simon [Cowell] comes back, the dynamic would be very different.Gary wouldn't be there - he'll be leaving at the end of this year," he told reporters. 

Continue reading: Dermot Confirms Gary Barlow Will Leave X-Factor, But Is Simon Coming Back?

The New X Factor Musical Is To Be Titled 'I Can't Sing'


Simon Cowell Harry Hill The X Factor

Say what you like about Simon Cowell, but the man clearly knows how to take a joke, as the upcoming West End musical based on his über-popular talent show series the x factor will be called I Can't Sing. The work-in-progress is being penned by Harry Hill, with music being handled by Steve Brown (Spend, Spend, Spend and I'm Alan Partridge).

The Evening Standard revealed today (May 22) that the musical, which will open at the London Palladium on March 26 2014, will be a “mickey-taking spectacular,” that will see judges Cowell, Louis Walsh and Cheryl Cole being lampooned throughout, with the format and contestants of the show also being routinely poked fun at throughout the course of the production.

Harry Hill
Harry Hill is currently filming The Harry Hill Movie

Continue reading: The New X Factor Musical Is To Be Titled 'I Can't Sing'

Sharon Osbourne Replaces Tulisa Contostavlos For A Cool £1.8 Million


Sharon Osbourne The X Factor Simon Cowell Gary Barlow Nicole Scherzinger

Sharon Osbourne has agreed to return to the X-Factor to replace Tulisa Contostavlos in a £1.8 million deal. The reality star agreed terms in London this week and will jet in before the first audition in Glasgow on June 4, 2013. An official announcement is to be made imminently, though it is has been widely reported that Sharon has been in talks with ITV bosses for several months.

A source told The Sun, "Sharon's been through hell lately, so x factor was not front of mind. But she loves the show and missed it. Things with Ozzy have calmed down but they're a long way off being sorted." Simon Cowell has decided that Sharon is the right woman to revamp the show after it lost over three million viewers last time out. The music guru had also approached Oasis founder Noel Gallagher to join the judging panel - a request that he rejected. 

Osbourne will earn £1.5 million in cash and £300,000 in first class flights between the UK and Los Angeles, with hotels, wardrobe and make-up costs also thrown in. She initially quit the panel in 2008 following a reported bust-up with Dannii Minogue. She will be joined by Gary Barlow (who is still thrashing out a new deal also worth £1.5 million) and Louis Walsh (who is presumably happy to accept anything). Nicole Scherzinger could return, though Mel B is reportedly on stand-by should the former Pussycat Doll decide to look for work elsewhere. 

Continue reading: Sharon Osbourne Replaces Tulisa Contostavlos For A Cool £1.8 Million

X-Factor Loser Ella Henderson’s Parents ARRESTED For Money Laundering


Ella Henderson The X Factor

Ella Henderson – who managed sixth in last year’s X-Factor – is living in London while she works on her debut album. Her parents, however, are in police custody after their arrest for money laundering. Police arrested the X-Factor star’s parents yesterday, which puts the young hopeful’s career at risk, especially considering her father is also her manager.

A neighbour, who decided to remain anonymous, said: ‘There were police everywhere with cars and flashing blue lights. It was obviously a big raid. Sniffer dogs were out around the house as well. I feel sorry for Ella because this is going to affect her career. She has worked so hard.” Another neighbour said: “This is a quiet, sleepy village. It is hard to understand what is going on.” Officers left after searching the properties for up to seven hours, it has been reported. Humberside Police said: “Officers executed warrants at two addresses in Tetney with the assistance of Lincolnshire Police. “A 49-year-old woman was arrested in Tetney and taken to Grimsby police station to be questioned in connection with money-laundering offences. The singer has previously spoken about the influence of her family, saying: “Having my father around me, that will keep me grounded."

Ella HendersonWill Ella Henderson be doing this for money?

Continue reading: X-Factor Loser Ella Henderson’s Parents ARRESTED For Money Laundering

It’s The End Of The X-Factor Road For Khloe Kardashian


Khloe Kardashian The X Factor

Khloe Kardashian’s X-Factor hosting days are over. The reality TV star has been told not to return for the next season – the show’s third – but her former co-host, Mario Lopez, will be.

According to TMZ, the network didn't give a reason for Kardashian's departure, but said, "We really enjoyed working with her and wish her all the best in her future endeavors." A source told old E! News that there is no bad feeling surrounding her exit, adding, "Everyone on the show had a great relationship with her and thought she was fun to work with." Lopez said in a statement: “I'm looking forward to returning to The 'x factor' team," "We're coming back stronger and better than ever and I'm excited to check out all the new talent." And on the subject of Lopez's return, Simon Cowell said, "I'm thrilled Mario is back for Season Three of the 'X Factor.'" Hosting a live show and keeping the judges -- especially Demi -- in line, is not an easy job, but Mario is a pro and we are glad he's coming back."

Lopez will join the returning judges Simon Cowell and Demi Lovato as the show’s core team. At least one more judge (presumably two) is yet to be announced. Producers previously confirmed former judges Britney Spears and L.A. Reid would not come back for another season.

Continue reading: It’s The End Of The X-Factor Road For Khloe Kardashian

Sharon And Ozzy Osbourne Living Apart, But Still Together


Sharon Osbourne Ozzy Osbourne The X Factor

Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne have moved out of their Los Angeles home and are living apart, according to The Sun. The couple, who have been married for 31 years, haven't seen each other for three weeks since they moved out the property but are thought to still be in a relationship.

Sharon and Ozzy are known for their rows and fiery relationship, though it appeared to work for them - or did it on-screen, in their hit MTV show. However, the fights appear to have taken their toll and Sharon is staying in a hotel until her new house in Beverly Hills is renovated, while Ozzy is renting a property two miles away. "They are living at different addresses and are not spending any time together. They row a lot," a source said, "They aren't acting like husband and wife. It is unusual to not even have dinner together when both of them are five minutes apart."

A friend of the couple also told the paper "Sharon and Ozzy have had plenty of opportunities to meet up but haven't spent any time together at all." The couple have been spotted without their wedding rings at numerous events this year, and Sharon recently alluded to the personal problems by tweeting about having a "really tough year."

Continue reading: Sharon And Ozzy Osbourne Living Apart, But Still Together

Nicole Scherzinger Reluctant For More X-Factor, As Simon Looks To Noel


Nicole Scherzinger Simon Cowell The X Factor Noel Gallagher

Nicole Scherzinger is giving X-Factor bosses a major headache ahead of the new series, which starts on ITV later this year. The American singer emerged as a hit member of the judging panel and mentored both finalists on the most recent series, though the ex-Pussycat Doll is releasing a new album in November on both sides of the Atlantic and will be required to be available for heavy promotion.

Overseen by Simon Cowell, X-Factor bosses have tabled a bid of around £1 million for Nicole to return to the show - according to The Sun - though she insists money is not a sticking point, which isn't hard to believe. She's already one of the most recognisable stars on the planet and, err, dates Lewis Hamilton. She told a pal: "I'm so torn right now. My heart wants me to come back and do the show as I had such a great time last year. But my album is coming out and I also need to focus on that. I don't think I can make it work. By trying to juggle the two, one or both will suffer," she told a pal.

Nicole pointed towards the intense criticism that Kelly Rowland received after missing some of the live shows during her tenure on the show, saying she didn't want to experience anything similar. It leaves Simon Cowell with work to do to reform his judging panel, with Gary Barlow the only member of the team thought to have signed on for another stint. ITV bosses are still unsure about the relevance of Louis Walsh, while a deal for Sharon Osbourne is yet to be done. 

Continue reading: Nicole Scherzinger Reluctant For More X-Factor, As Simon Looks To Noel

X-Factor Bosses Tell Noel Gallagher To "Name His Price" For Judging Spot


Noel Gallagher Simon Cowell The X Factor Gary Barlow Nicole Scherzinger Sharon Osbourne

X-Factor producers have officially approached Noel Gallagher for the second time with an offer to become a judge on the ITV talent show. The former Oasis guitarist, 45, has been at the top of Simon Cowell's wish list for a number of years, though Noel's management company Ignition have received the biggest offer yet from the Syco Music mogul, thought to be, essentially, a blank cheque.

A source told The Sun last night, "Simon is determined to get Noel on board. He sees him as his natural replacement as the real alpha male on the panel. He thinks Noel would be ideal, with his music knowledge, straight-talking and rapier wit." Cowell made a seven-figure offer to the rocker last year, though was knocked back as Gallagher prepared to release his No.1 album. Though Noel has made no secret of his openness to offers should the money be right, it may be his young daughter who emerges as the key to discussions. The source added, "Noel's daughter Anais is a huge fan of One Direction and X Factor, so she'll be nagging him to say yes." 

The guitarist appears to have the talents required to judge and mentor singing hopefuls. During an interview with Real Radio Yorkshire in 2011, Gallagher said, "I don't mind The X Factor.I've got an 11-year-old daughter; she's obsessed with it as all 11-year-old girls are. I was watching it on Saturday actually, and I managed to pick everybody they put through to the live finals." He also spoke of being approached by Cowell, "I know him and he was going 'we want you to be on it'" Noel said, "I was going 'you don't really want me on it - I won't put anyone through, and I can't have people round my house crying in the kitchen when I don't put them through because they'll frighten the cat."

Continue reading: X-Factor Bosses Tell Noel Gallagher To "Name His Price" For Judging Spot

Noel Gallagher Set For An X-Factor Judging Spot? Surely Not


Noel Gallagher The X Factor Simon Cowell

Will we be seeing Noel Gallagher preside over a judging chair on The X-Factor? Well if reports are to be believed, and if Simon Cowell gets his way, then we might well do.

The former Oasis guitarist has reportedly been offered a deal to judge on the talent show whereby he can name his salary. “Simon is determined to get Noel on board. He sees him as his natural replacement as the real alpha male on the panel,” a source told The Sun. “He thinks Noel would be ideal, with his music knowledge, straight-talking and rapier wit.” Given Gallagher’s public disdain for bands like One Direction, who were given their break on the talent show, it seems very unlikely that the mercurial rock star will take up the offer, but will his hand be forced? “Noel’s daughter Anais is a huge fan of One Direction and x factor, so she’ll be nagging him to say yes,” the source added.

Noel GallagherNoel Gallagher leaving the Groucho club, London

Continue reading: Noel Gallagher Set For An X-Factor Judging Spot? Surely Not

X-Factor 2013 – No One Has Been Confirmed To Judge, Says Host Dermot O’Leary


Dermot O'Leary The X Factor

While everyone’s awaiting the return of The X-Factor, there’s the small matter of who will judge the talent left to sort out. Although, according to the show’s host Dermot O’Leary, no one is a dead cert.

"No one has been confirmed," he said in an interview with ITV, and that’s all he had to say on the matter. It’s sort of enough, isn’t it? He had more words for his and Gary Barlow’s relationship, which seems to be blossoming into a fully blown bromance. "I get a few texts from Gary from time to time [and] we see each other quite a lot and he's the one I go out for dinner with and have fun with." Another hosting sport to be sorted is the Xtra Factor slot. And with Olly Murs on tour with Robbie Williams, it’ll have to be a big character. "Well I will miss Olly,” says Dermot, “because he's like a little brother to me, but I'm so glad for him, because he loves doing this and the only reason he wouldn't do this is because he's so busy."

One name mooted for Olly’s old spot is last year’s contestant Rylan Clark. He certainly fulfils the cocky quota, but will Flack be alright with that? “I think Rylan would be good,” explains Rylan, “but the most important thing is that Caroline (Flack) is happy."

Continue reading: X-Factor 2013 – No One Has Been Confirmed To Judge, Says Host Dermot O’Leary

Simon Cowell To Ring The X-Factor Changes In Ratings Battle


Simon Cowell The X Factor

What was once the jewell in the talent show crown has since slipped in popularity. Simon Cowell’s X-Factor went from being the most watched thing on TV, into something quite farcical. But the music man is hoping to change that with a few tweaks.

It’s official: smaller audition rooms will be making a comeback in an attempt to improve ratings. Sorry, what? You were expecting a wholesale change that we would actually notice? No no no; you’re mistaken. They’ve decided to fix a problem that never existed in order to fix one that actually does. That’s how life works. A spokesman said: "We can confirm the audition rooms will be returning to The X Factor as one of a number of exciting changes.” And a source told the Sun: "Fans wanted changes this year — and we’re giving them what they want. The a-cappella auditions were classic X Factor and really gave the judges an insight into whether acts were any good. It also better showcased some of the weird and wacky people we get, whose performances got lost in the arena auditions. The plan is to have the best of both worlds."

Simon CowellCowell enjoying a cheeky cig in a car

Continue reading: Simon Cowell To Ring The X-Factor Changes In Ratings Battle

It's Time To Face The Musical: Simon Cowell's SyCo Behind Harry Hill's X Factor Spoof


Harry Hill The X Factor Simon Cowell

Simon Cowell needn’t worry too much about Harry Hill’s X Factor spoof musical, due to open in spring next year in London’s West End. After all, his company, SyCo are co-producing the sideways look at Britain’s best-known TV singing contest. We’re hardly expecting a slice of biting satire, when the biggest potential target for comedy and social commentary (we’re looking at you, Cowell) is holding the purse-strings for the show.

Harry Hill
Harry Hill is co-writing The X Factor spoof musical

The musical is entitled X Factor – It’s Time To Face the Musical and according to Sky News, the story involves a central character by the name of Chenice, who has never heard of X Factor, because she lives in a caravan, where the signal gets interrupted by her grandfather’s iron lung. All sounds very Harry Hill so far… Then, apparently, Chenice stumbles upon the X Factor audition queue “along with her talking dog,” where she ends up “trying out for the show alongside fellow contestants such as Max, a hunky ukulele-playing plumber.” SyCo – the company owned by Simon Cowell, will be co-producing the musical, which will be written by Harry Hill and Steve Brown (TV Burp / Spitting Image) and directed by Sean Foley (The Ladykillers).

Continue reading: It's Time To Face The Musical: Simon Cowell's SyCo Behind Harry Hill's X Factor Spoof

One In, One Out: Khloe Kardashian Fired From X Factor, Mario Lopez Stays


Khloe Kardashian Mario Lopez Simon Cowell The X Factor Cheryl Cole

Khloe Kardashian fired from The X Factor? Yep, according to NY Post sources, Khloe's getting the axe.

Khloe Kardashian is easily the most watchable member of the Kardashian family, and is one of the only facets of clan's reality shows that make them remotely worth watching. Naturally, therefore, she's entertaining, but when it comes to hosting a structured show such as the X Factor she falls flat. To be fair to her, the show as a whole didn't live up to expectations and Britney Spears, a judge on the last season, is also not going to be returning to its fourth US season. "They are asking Mario [Lopez] to come back, but not Khloe," an insider confirms to the website. 

So that's who's leaving and staying, but who'll be new to the show? Well, Cheryl Cole, a British singer who had a successful run in the UK version of the show was unceremoniously sacked by Simon Cowell two years ago (about which she has since filed a lawsuit for being underpaid) but apparently she's in talks to return! As Marki Costelli, a hosting expert, said of Khloe, she may have brought over some of her existing fans to the show, but clearly they didn't stay, and "at the end of the day, when she doesn't know what she is doing, are you helping your show or hurting it?" Although Cole doesn't have a strong US fan base, at least she knows what she's doing. 

Continue reading: One In, One Out: Khloe Kardashian Fired From X Factor, Mario Lopez Stays

Ofcom Rules X Factor Broke Programming Rules With Corinthia Hotel


James Arthur Rylan Clark The X Factor

x factor has come under fire from Ofcom regulators for the excessive appearance of the ultra-posh Corinthia Hotel overlooking the Thames, reports the Guardian. 

X Factor producers, by showing the hotel repeatedly, gave it 'undue prominence' which is in breach of programming in the UK. Although the show wasn't paid for its featuring in a couple of episodes, they did receive discounted rates for the contestants to stay there - which undoubtedly was taken gratefully as it's normally £3000 per night! 

One episode saw the contestants moving into the Hotel which saw winner James Arthur exclaiming about their rooms, and Rylan Clark (currently a contestant in Celebrity Big Brother) gush over the size and quality of the hotel, saying:  "It's absolutely amazing here ... I've never really seen anything like it to be honest. It's a million miles away from the place I live back home ... Oh my god James, it's massive! There's a phone in the toilet!"

Continue reading: Ofcom Rules X Factor Broke Programming Rules With Corinthia Hotel

British College Offers Pricey Course In Passing X-Factor Auditions


The X Factor James Arthur

Bishop Auckland College in County Durham are to offer a £95 crash-course in preparing for x factor auditions. The 17-week course teaches students how to sing, perform and prepare for the nervy auditions in front of Louis Walsh, Gary Barlow and company. "I've watched X Factor auditions and thought, 'you could have done well but you just weren't prepared for it,'" said the college's Mike Jinks.

The idea for the course came about after the college put on a successful music festival last summer, which featured X Factor winner James Arthur, then a little known musician. "We will be giving them some home truths," said Mr Jinks, the college's head of art, music and performing arts. "This is not just about saying, 'go on X Factor and you will be famous.' We expect them to work hard. We expect them to understand that most people who go on X Factor put a lot of hard work and preparation into it." The course will also give students the skills required to get through a job interview, which Mr Jinks describes as similar to those needed for the famous auditions. 

As of January 11, 2013, James Arthur's winning single Impossible - a cover of Shontelle's 2010 song - has sold over one million copies. His debut album is expected to hit shelves later this year.

Continue reading: British College Offers Pricey Course In Passing X-Factor Auditions

Finishing The Year At #1, James Arthur Regains The Top Spot


The X Factor James Arthur

James Arthur's single 'Impossible' has returned to number one after being beaten by The Justice Collective last week.

Christmas week proved to be a little less elated for James Arthur as his single 'Impossible' was relegated to the second spot in the charts, beaten by the charity single from The Justice Collective, 'He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother'. Plus, in Boxing Day sales his card was declined three times. Embarrassing! However, to bring in the new year he's right back on top with 'Impossible' storming back to #1, which will hopefully set the tone for his 2013. 

According to the Official Charts Company, the single has now sold almost 900,000 copies and is the fourth highest selling first single of x factor history, beating Leona Lewis' 'A Moment Like This', from 2006, but being curtailed from the top of that pile by Alexandra Burke, Matt Cardle, and Shayne Ward. Only 400,000 more copies to sell before reaching that coveted accolade. 

Continue reading: Finishing The Year At #1, James Arthur Regains The Top Spot

Everyone Relax, Britney Might Not Leave The X Factor After All


Britney Spears Simon Cowell The X Factor

Good news for all Britney Spears fans, because it seems she might not be leaving the X Factor after all.

Despite rumours that have been running rampant over the past week or so of the 'Toxic' singer getting the boot from the judging panel, nothing has been set in stone so far. Apparently, if she and The X Factor go their separate ways, it would be Brit’s choice. Earlier this week Us Weekly broke the story that Brit would not be returning for the show’s third season, because she wasn’t offering up the spectacle that Simon Cowell had hired her for. However, according to E! News, nothing has been decided as of yet as Simon Cowell hasn’t approached Spears about the next season of the show either way.

"I don't know yet, to be honest with you," Cowell tells E! News about Britney returning. "I haven't had the conversation with her whether she'd want to, what other commitments she's got." In the same interview, however, he goes on to explain that he would like to have the pop princess back on the show again: “Yeah, I think I do, yeah. But like I said, and it goes back to L.A., it all depends on how much time they can give us.” Looks like Britney’s fate (as well as that of the show, for that matter) is still up in the air, but we’re just happy to hear that Brit isn’t getting the boot.

After A Year Free From Drama, Britney Spears Has Been Axed From "The X Factor" For Being Too Tame


Britney Spears The X Factor La Reid Simon Cowell Rihanna Cheryl Cole

Britney Spears has had a pretty good run this past couple of months – she’s had her first season on the X Factor judging panel, managed to clear her immense tax debt from the Kevin Federline (aka He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Mentioned) era and she is generally going strong without any train wrecks this year.

It might not be all sunshine and roses in Britneyland however, as this newfound maturity is what has reportedly earned the pop princess an axing from the X Factor. It is no secret that the show is in desperate need of a revamping after all-time-low ratings for this season’s finale. According to Us Weekly, producer Simon Cowell was hoping that Britney would be the one to bring the “x factor” to the mix with her crazy antics. But with puns like that then maybe the ratings failure is justifiable.

However, when the new Brit proved to be tamer than expected, Cowell decided that his $15 million investment in hiring the pop star hadn’t been worth it after all and she will be departing from the show after this season. Cowell was reportedly after Rihanna as a judge on The X Factor, but with both Britney and L.A. Reid not returning for next season and Cheryl Cole axed from the UK version, the producer not only has some huge shoes to fill, but plenty of them.

Bitter Sweet Christmas Week For James Arthur- Card Declined But Impossible Set To Return To #1


The X Factor James Arthur

December has been a great month for James Arthur, in fact, the entire year has been pretty good for him, as he's gone from zero to hero with most of the year being occupied with his rise to fame and to his winning The X Factor.

This week saw a quick lull in sales of his single 'Impossible', which hit number one the week directly after the final, but was beaten Christmas week and overtaken by The Justice Collective ' charity single 'He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother'. However, now as the Official Charts Company says, at midweek it looks like Arthur's going to be back in the top-spot come Sunday's chart. 

To put a slight dampener on that good news, the Daily Mail reports that the young singer, while Christmas shopping, had his card declined three times. He was seen at the till, literally red faced, when he couldn't pay the bill - which came to over £700, for hats, tshirts and sneakers. The cheeky chappy managed to persuade the manager to let him take the goods and to return at a later date to pay for them- he's bound to be amassing something of a fortune in the near future so the man behind the till shouldn't have much to worry about. 

Continue reading: Bitter Sweet Christmas Week For James Arthur- Card Declined But Impossible Set To Return To #1

Frank Lampard, Christine Bleakley and The X Factor - Frank Lampard and Christine Bleakley London, England - celebrities outside the X Factor Studios Sunday 13th November 2011

Frank Lampard, Christine Bleakley and The X Factor

Devlin and The X Factor - Janet Devlin London, England - arrives at 'The X Factor' studios wearing bright orange eye shadow Friday 11th November 2011

Devlin and The X Factor

Gary Barlow and The X Factor Friday 4th November 2011 arriving at the X Factor rehearsal studios London, England

Gary Barlow and The X Factor

Devlin and x factor - Janet Devlin England - at X Factor rehearsals Wednesday 2nd November 2011

Devlin and X Factor

Gary Barlow, Devlin, The X Factor and x factor Sunday 30th October 2011 Gary Barlow and Janet Devlin seen outside of X Factor studios after a live show London, England

Gary Barlow, Devlin, The X Factor and X Factor
The X Factor

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