It always starts the same way. The opening few piano notes of something slow by Coldplay or Labrinth. A contestant swallows hard, then starts talking about their sick mum/child/dog. And suddenly, before Cheryl can even grab a tissue, you're sat on your sofa blubbing like a toddler.
Yes: The X Factor has given us some of the most heartbreaking moments on TV over the years. And from hysterics at Judges' Houses to Simon Cowell's own rare, salty tears, here are 6 moments that shattered us, ruined us and gave us every feeling possible.
1. Gamu Gate
The so-called 'Gamu Gate' has become a central part of X Factor lore. 18-year-old Zimbabwe-born Gamu Nhengu had given flawless performances throughout the whole show, right through to her rendition of 'Cry Me Out' for Cheryl and will.i.am at Judges' Houses. Surely she was a dead cert for a spot in...
Yes: The X Factor has given us some of the most heartbreaking moments on TV over the years. And from hysterics at Judges' Houses to Simon Cowell's own rare, salty tears, here are 6 moments that shattered us, ruined us and gave us every feeling possible.
1. Gamu Gate
The so-called 'Gamu Gate' has become a central part of X Factor lore. 18-year-old Zimbabwe-born Gamu Nhengu had given flawless performances throughout the whole show, right through to her rendition of 'Cry Me Out' for Cheryl and will.i.am at Judges' Houses. Surely she was a dead cert for a spot in...
- 10/30/2015
- Digital Spy
The X Factor knows how to create drama. From the blast of 'O Fortuna' as Simon Cowell and his buddies enter the stage, to former voiceover man Peter Dickson hamming it up, they've got the atmosphere nailed.
One of the most exciting elements of the show will always be the big Sunday night eliminations, especially if the dreaded Deadlock comes into play. Most of the time, the judges get it right, but sometimes there are downright shocks. Here are the biggest to date, brought to you in association with TalkTalk's new Bopheads app:
1. Laura White (series 5)
Wigan lass Laura was tipped for X Factor success in 2008's early stages, but found herself in a tough girls group with the public's favourite indie fairy Diana Vickers and future victor Alexandra Burke. Even so, no-one expected her to leave as early as the fifth week, especially with Ricky Gervais lookalike Daniel Evans still knocking around.
One of the most exciting elements of the show will always be the big Sunday night eliminations, especially if the dreaded Deadlock comes into play. Most of the time, the judges get it right, but sometimes there are downright shocks. Here are the biggest to date, brought to you in association with TalkTalk's new Bopheads app:
1. Laura White (series 5)
Wigan lass Laura was tipped for X Factor success in 2008's early stages, but found herself in a tough girls group with the public's favourite indie fairy Diana Vickers and future victor Alexandra Burke. Even so, no-one expected her to leave as early as the fifth week, especially with Ricky Gervais lookalike Daniel Evans still knocking around.
- 10/2/2015
- Digital Spy
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
It's not just Doctor Who's birthday this weekend - The X Factor is celebrating its tenth anniversary on Saturday and Sunday. Now, here at Digital Spy, we're never one to miss a party, so we strapped on some hats, got stuck into some jelly and ice cream and then sat down for a nice little nostalgia-fest about our favourite X Factor moments from the past decade. Join us as we reminisce about times gone by...
Simon Reynolds (Movies Editor) - Gummogate
My favourite X Factor moment has to be 'Gummogate', a kerfuffle that saw Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh quarrelling over American independent cinema. Jamie Archer's rendition of 'Crying' during 2009's Movie Week (c'mon, Simon, have you *really* seen that film?) irked Louis so much he seemed to question the very existence of Harmony Korine's cult oddity. This all leads to the question... has Louis seen Spring Breakers?...
Simon Reynolds (Movies Editor) - Gummogate
My favourite X Factor moment has to be 'Gummogate', a kerfuffle that saw Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh quarrelling over American independent cinema. Jamie Archer's rendition of 'Crying' during 2009's Movie Week (c'mon, Simon, have you *really* seen that film?) irked Louis so much he seemed to question the very existence of Harmony Korine's cult oddity. This all leads to the question... has Louis seen Spring Breakers?...
- 11/22/2013
- Digital Spy
We all remember the X Factor winners. Leona. James. Little Mix. Alexandra. Erm. Lee-Lee...Leon? Erm. And, obviously, the other ones.
But what about the acts that aren't so lucky? What about the people who get set aside by the Great British public after only one week? Are you an X Factor Pub Quiz champion - can you name them all? Take a look back with our pictures below and see how many you even vaguely remember.
Series 1.
This young lady covered 'Superstar' by The Carpenters in her only Live Show performance. The title proved to be slightly misleading as she was quickly shown the door by the public and judges. She went on to release music in Ireland and is still working as a singer today.
Series 2.
This girl group from series 2 kicked off a dreaded curse for girlbands in week one of the competition. We found a Twitter page for the group.
But what about the acts that aren't so lucky? What about the people who get set aside by the Great British public after only one week? Are you an X Factor Pub Quiz champion - can you name them all? Take a look back with our pictures below and see how many you even vaguely remember.
Series 1.
This young lady covered 'Superstar' by The Carpenters in her only Live Show performance. The title proved to be slightly misleading as she was quickly shown the door by the public and judges. She went on to release music in Ireland and is still working as a singer today.
Series 2.
This girl group from series 2 kicked off a dreaded curse for girlbands in week one of the competition. We found a Twitter page for the group.
- 10/15/2013
- Digital Spy
Louis Walsh has revealed that he intends to quit The X Factor at the end of this year.
He has often been sent up by his fellow panelists - albeit endearingly - for either his choice of acts, songs, hairdos, outfits, or all of the above.
So, we take a look back at those loveable 'poor Louis Walsh' moments on the ITV show below - from surprise water dousing by Sharon Osbourne to Walsh's temporary replacement with choreographer Brian Friedman.
Louis Walsh gets drenched with water by an irate Sharon Osbourne, following his quip about her taking husband Ozzy's drugs on The X Factor back in 2005.
Louis attempts to criticise Dannii Minogue's song choice for her act Paije Richardson during the 2010 series of The X Factor, but gets a 'blah, blah, blah' hand gesture in his face in response.
Poor Louis Walsh gets 'gagged' by Simon Cowell's...
He has often been sent up by his fellow panelists - albeit endearingly - for either his choice of acts, songs, hairdos, outfits, or all of the above.
So, we take a look back at those loveable 'poor Louis Walsh' moments on the ITV show below - from surprise water dousing by Sharon Osbourne to Walsh's temporary replacement with choreographer Brian Friedman.
Louis Walsh gets drenched with water by an irate Sharon Osbourne, following his quip about her taking husband Ozzy's drugs on The X Factor back in 2005.
Louis attempts to criticise Dannii Minogue's song choice for her act Paije Richardson during the 2010 series of The X Factor, but gets a 'blah, blah, blah' hand gesture in his face in response.
Poor Louis Walsh gets 'gagged' by Simon Cowell's...
- 8/6/2013
- Digital Spy
Rylan Clark has revealed that the lowest moment of his life was after the first X Factor live show last year.
The TV presenter was saved from elimination in the first live show over Gary Barlow's act Carolynne Poole, and went on to finish fifth overall.
When asked what his worst moment was, he told Star magazine: "Week one of the live X Factor shows, when I was saved, because I was the most hated man in Britain."
He continued: "I wanted to f**king kill myself. I was like: 'This isn't worth it'. I tried to leave the show and at one point I did walk. Then I thought: 'I've worked so hard for this. I've got to prove why I should be here'.
"There are still people out there who are going to hate me - it's easier to hate someone than love someone."
Clark also spoke...
The TV presenter was saved from elimination in the first live show over Gary Barlow's act Carolynne Poole, and went on to finish fifth overall.
When asked what his worst moment was, he told Star magazine: "Week one of the live X Factor shows, when I was saved, because I was the most hated man in Britain."
He continued: "I wanted to f**king kill myself. I was like: 'This isn't worth it'. I tried to leave the show and at one point I did walk. Then I thought: 'I've worked so hard for this. I've got to prove why I should be here'.
"There are still people out there who are going to hate me - it's easier to hate someone than love someone."
Clark also spoke...
- 7/8/2013
- Digital Spy
X Factor star Lucy Spraggan has slammed fellow contestant Christopher Maloney after he tweeted his delight at Tulisa Contostavlos's arrest on suspicion of supplying drugs.
Maloney, who finished third on the ITV show last year despite reports of his difficult behaviour, tweeted the former X Factor judge a link to the dictionary definition of karma while she was being questioned for allegedly arranging an £800 cocaine deal with an undercover reporter yesterday (June 4).
In response, Spraggan - who was mentored by Contostavlos before being forced to pull out of the contest with illness - branded Maloney "a very embarrassing person" with "an ugly personality".
"Just heard about the tweet @ChrisMaloney77 sent yesterday," she wrote. "You're a very embarrassing person.
"It's a beautiful day today, far too beautiful to think about dreary people and their ugly personalities. Have a good one!"
Just heard about the tweet @chrismaloney77 sent yesterday. You're a very embarrassing person.
Maloney, who finished third on the ITV show last year despite reports of his difficult behaviour, tweeted the former X Factor judge a link to the dictionary definition of karma while she was being questioned for allegedly arranging an £800 cocaine deal with an undercover reporter yesterday (June 4).
In response, Spraggan - who was mentored by Contostavlos before being forced to pull out of the contest with illness - branded Maloney "a very embarrassing person" with "an ugly personality".
"Just heard about the tweet @ChrisMaloney77 sent yesterday," she wrote. "You're a very embarrassing person.
"It's a beautiful day today, far too beautiful to think about dreary people and their ugly personalities. Have a good one!"
Just heard about the tweet @chrismaloney77 sent yesterday. You're a very embarrassing person.
- 6/5/2013
- Digital Spy
Gary Barlow has reportedly threatened to quit The X Factor unless bosses improve this year's series.
The Take That star apparently wants Simon Cowell and his team to pull out all the stops to mark the show's tenth anniversary - including scrapping novelty acts.
Barlow will attend a presentation at the end of the week with ITV and production companies Syco and Talkback before committing to a third year on the panel, The People reports.
"Gary has made it clear that he will not be on the show unless the problems from last year are corrected and something fabulous is offered for the viewers," a source said.
"He knows the risks. The X Factor could easily struggle against the competition if things aren't done right this time around.
"He knows what he wants to see so he will fly back from Los Angeles at the end of the week for a presentation.
The Take That star apparently wants Simon Cowell and his team to pull out all the stops to mark the show's tenth anniversary - including scrapping novelty acts.
Barlow will attend a presentation at the end of the week with ITV and production companies Syco and Talkback before committing to a third year on the panel, The People reports.
"Gary has made it clear that he will not be on the show unless the problems from last year are corrected and something fabulous is offered for the viewers," a source said.
"He knows the risks. The X Factor could easily struggle against the competition if things aren't done right this time around.
"He knows what he wants to see so he will fly back from Los Angeles at the end of the week for a presentation.
- 4/7/2013
- Digital Spy
Rylan Clark felt like he was the subject of a ''witch hunt'' on 'The X Factor'. The former contestant recalled his lowest point on the series was during the first weekend of live shows when the public and judge Gary Barlow were outraged that he survived elimination after landing in the bottom two with Carolynne Poole. He said: ''It was probably the worst feeling I've ever had, when Gary walked off. You forget that you're on telly. It felt like you're at school, like at assembly, that's exactly what it's like. And it killed me. That first week was awful, it was...
- 12/17/2012
- Virgin Media - TV
Christopher Maloney could be isolated on the 'X Factor' tour because fellow finalists are ''unhappy'' about his inclusion. The former cruise ship crooner may receive ''star treatment'', such as an exclusive backstage area and private rehearsals, for the lucrative string of gigs to keep him away from his fellow contestants after he was allegedly abusive to wannabes including Carolynne Poole at 'X Factor' final rehearsals last weekend. A source told the Daily Mirror newspaper: ''There is unhappiness over this decision to let him back. He wasn't universally liked whatsoever.'' While a number of contestants were calling for Kye Sones to...
- 12/14/2012
- Virgin Media - TV
Christopher Maloney has now been confirmed for next year's X Factor live tour. It had been reported that despite finishing third on this year's show, Maloney would be kicked off the jaunt after missing the group performance on the final Sunday and his falling-out with fellow contestant Carolynne Poole. James Arthur, Union J, Rylan Clark and Ella Henderson later posted messages on Twitter suggesting that Kye Sones, who was voted off in week five, should join the tour. However, organisers have now told Digital Spy that they "can confirm that Christopher (more)...
- 12/13/2012
- by By Mayer Nissim
- Digital Spy
X Factor star Christopher Maloney has begged for the "online abuse" directed at him to stop, declaring: "All I done was follow my dream". The Liverpudlian singer, who finished third in this year's series, has been hit with persistent rumours about his attitude backstage, and was allegedly kicked out of the final after calling fellow contestant Carolynne Poole a "c***" during rehearsals. Maloney was also absent from the X Factor wrap party, which he put down to the same illness he claimed forced him out of this weekend's final, and his place on next year's tour is said to be in jeopardy. Taking to (more)...
- 12/13/2012
- by By Daniel Sperling
- Digital Spy
X Factor stars have called for Kye Sones to replace Christopher Maloney on the 2013 tour. James Arthur, Union J, Rylan Clark and Ella Henderson have all tweeted messages of support of Sones taking third-placed Maloney's spot on the arena tour next year. Bosses are due to meet today (December 12) to decide Maloney's future on the tour after his alleged behaviour on Sunday's final, The Sun claims. Maloney is said to have sworn at Carolynne Poole, before reacting angrily to only having one line in the group performance and deciding to travel back home to Liverpool. Insiders have claimed that they are "90% sure" that Maloney will not be joining the tour, though refunds may need to be supplied to fans (more)...
- 12/12/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
Carolynne Poole has spoken about the alleged incident involving Christopher Maloney at the X Factor final. Third-placed contestant Maloney is said to have called Poole a "c***" backstage before dropping out of the final altogether. Speaking at the after-party on Sunday (December 9), Poole told The Sun: "After ten weeks the mask came off, it was like he couldn't keep it up any more. "He came in and basically, because I didn't say hi and kiss his arse, he called me a c***. Everyone heard it, even Jahmene, who was upset. "I said to him, 'Did you just call me a c***?'. He denied it but I heard him." Christopher Maloney is said to have been angry with only getting one line in the group performance, before he decided to return home to Liverpool. Poole continued: "We were rehearsing the group song and he wouldn't (more)...
- 12/11/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
Christopher Maloney called Carolynne Poole a **** when she didn't say hello to him, the brunette star has revealed. The country singer claims the former cruise ship crooner was abusive to her at rehearsals for 'The X Factor' final on Sunday (09.12.12) - where he reportedly turned up ''clearly drunk'' - because she ''didn't kiss his a**e''. Carolynne - who was voted off the show in the first week - said: ''After 10 weeks the mask came off, it was like he couldn't keep it up any more. ''He came in and basically, because I didn't say hi and kiss his a***,...
- 12/11/2012
- Virgin Media - TV
Christopher Maloney could be dropped from The X Factor tour, according to the latest reports. The controversial contestant, who finished third in the competition over the weekend, was apparently kicked out of the final group performance last night after turning up late for rehearsals. He allegedly appeared to have been drinking alcohol and went on to verbally abuse production staff because he only had one line in the performance. Several reports claim that he called fellow contestant Carolynne Poole a "c**t" and stormed out of the studio. Producers confirmed he had chosen to go back to Liverpool, but he later turned up at the studio and pleaded to be included in the performance. (more)...
- 12/10/2012
- by By Colin Daniels
- Digital Spy
X Factor judge Gary Barlow has launched a fresh attack on Rylan Clark, claiming that the Essex singer is ruining the chances of better singers in the competition. Barlow and Clark have had numerous run-ins on the ITV1 talent show and the Take That star singled out Clark for criticism after he survived ahead of Carolynne Poole in week one. Following yesterday's shock elimination of Ella Henderson, Barlow told the judges that they shouldn't be surprised anymore if good acts leave, when they have previously voted to keep Clark on the show. "I'm more annoyed Rylan's still here. I (more)...
- 11/19/2012
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Rylan Clark has admitted that he is a long-shot to take the X Factor title this year. The controversial contestant has survived four weeks of the contest after the first elimination show ended in deadlock, with viewers saving him over Gary Barlow's act Carolynne Poole. Speaking in a Sun webchat, Clark revealed that he does not expect to win. "I wouldn't put money on it, because you'll probably lose and gambling isn't good for you," the singer said. "But no, I don't think I will win." Clark also made light of his relationship with judge (more)...
- 11/3/2012
- by By Beth Curtis
- Digital Spy
Robbie Williams has pledged his support to X Factor contestant Rylan Clark. Yesterday afternoon (October 20), the 'Candy' singer - who is currently in Europe promoting his forthcoming album Take The Crown - tweeted "Team Rylan All The Way". "Vote Rylan," he added in a short blog on his official website. Williams's support for Clark will likely annoy his bandmate and X Factor judge Gary Barlow, who has frequently voiced his dislike of the Essex-born contestant. Over the last two shows, Barlow has watched as Melanie Masson and Carolynne Poole from his over 28s category were sent home, while Clark remained in the competition. He has described Clark's performances as "embarrassing" and told the other (more)...
- 10/21/2012
- by By Alison Rowley
- Digital Spy
X Factor contestant Christopher Maloney has hit back at claims that he is faking his nerves. An unnamed finalist was recently quoted as saying he "could not be any more different off camera" and "is actually quite big-headed", while eliminated singer Carolynne Poole said she was "surprised" to see a "confident, bold" Maloney suddenly become nervous on stage. "It's extremely tough this week," Maloney told journalists including Digital Spy. "There's stuff being written about us in the papers, like things I've done in my past. I've never lied about it. I've [worked] on a cruise ship that lasted six weeks. "It's just a bit negative. It's hurtful and they're saying hurtful things about my family. It's part and parcel I guess, but I've still got feelings. It's (more)...
- 10/19/2012
- by By Colin Daniels
- Digital Spy
X Factor star Rylan Clark has admitted that he has "no expectations" of winning the show. The failed Big Brother applicant has been slammed by viewers and judge Gary Barlow for his vocal ability, with his survival over Carolynne Poole in the first week of the live shows sparking controversy. Clark has now said that while he hopes to become a legitimate dance artist after The X Factor, he has come to terms with being this year's "joke act". "I've got no expectations to win the show," he told Essex paper the Maldon and Burnham Standard. "I'm serious about doing dance music, but if going on stage and having fun makes you a joke act then fine, but I'm loving it and I'm so grateful (more)...
- 10/17/2012
- by By Daniel Sperling
- Digital Spy
X Factor star Rylan Clark has suggested that his energetic performances prove he has more talent than Gary Barlow. The ex-Signed by Katie Price contestant said that he was "enraged" by how personal Barlow got during the controversial elimination of Carolynne Poole, arguing that the judge has failed to recognise the entertainment value of his fun-filled numbers. "To be perfectly honest, Gary ain't really of concern to me in the slightest," he told Heat. "Some things I do think he goes a bit far with. "There's a difference between being critical and having a dig. Why would you kick me in the mouth as I'm about to leave?" He continued: "What Gary doesn't remember is when he first started out he was the one doing photo shoots with his arse out and stuff. Everyone's got to start (more)...
- 10/16/2012
- by By Daniel Sperling
- Digital Spy
Gary Barlow has announced his upcoming UK and Ireland solo tour dates via Twitter. The Take That frontman will play a series of winter dates, with ticket due to go on sale this Friday (October 19) at 10am. The singer will alternate touring with his X Factor commitments. He is currently mentoring the Overs group in the reality singing contest. Both of the two acts to be eliminated so far have come from Barlow's group. First, Carolynne Poole left in controversial circumstances, while this Saturday saw 44-year-old Melanie Masson leave the competition. Barlow's upcoming UK and Ireland tour dates are as follows:
November 13 - Bournemouth International Centre November 14 - Plymouth Pavilion November 21 - Edinburgh Playhouse November (more)...
November 13 - Bournemouth International Centre November 14 - Plymouth Pavilion November 21 - Edinburgh Playhouse November (more)...
- 10/15/2012
- by By Paul Martinovic
- Digital Spy
Eliminated X Factor contestant Melanie Masson has admitted that she thought mentor Gary Barlow was going to quit the show last week after Rylan Clark was controversially saved. The 44-year-old told Digital Spy that she was genuinely concerned Barlow would abandon the 'Overs' category following Carolynne Poole's elimination, but said that the Take That star is committed to fighting for remaining acts Kye Sones and Christopher Maloney.
"I don't think he would ever walk out on his acts," Masson said. "He's a real man of his word... he will fight for [Kye and Christopher] until the bitter end. "I was worried he would [quit] last week actually after what happened with Carolynne, but I'm so glad he stayed and I had another week with him. I think it would be a great loss to the show if he left because he's (more)...
"I don't think he would ever walk out on his acts," Masson said. "He's a real man of his word... he will fight for [Kye and Christopher] until the bitter end. "I was worried he would [quit] last week actually after what happened with Carolynne, but I'm so glad he stayed and I had another week with him. I think it would be a great loss to the show if he left because he's (more)...
- 10/15/2012
- by By Daniel Sperling
- Digital Spy
Today's celebrity pictures include X Factor's glamorous Nicole Scherzinger and Louis Walsh, getting accosted by an enthusiastic fan, as they dine at C Restaurant in Central London following last night's results show. Also in the capital, X Factor reject Carolynne Poole performs live at G-a-y at Heaven nightclub along with Leona Lewis, and Melanie Masson appears on Daybreak after being the latest finalist to leave the show. In Cardiff, Doctor Who's Matt Smith casts his hand prints in cement as he makes (more)...
- 10/15/2012
- by By Naomi Gordon
- Digital Spy
Simon Cowell could be forced to intervene in Gary Barlow and Louis Walsh's 'X Factor' row. The pair have been angry with each other since the first send off last week - where Carolynne Poole lost out on her spot to Rylan Clark - and backstage has become so tense that show boss Simon is considering ways to sort it out. A source said: ''Gary has made it clear he doesn't think Louis is as relevant as some of the other judges. ''There is a worry that things could get out of hand. The tension backstage is becoming too much. Cowell is close...
- 10/15/2012
- Virgin Media - TV
X Factor contestants have reportedly voiced concerns over Rylan Clark. The singer is said to have received a steady stream of death threats on Twitter since last weekend's results show, which saw him saved over Carolynne Poole in a Deadlock decision. However, his fellow finalists have got behind Clark by giving him a standing ovation in dress rehearsals yesterday, reports The Sun. A show insider said: "The others have been very worried about him. He has been really down and getting a stream of death threats (more)...
- 10/14/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
Strictly Come Dancing claimed its most convincing victory over The X Factor in six years last night (Saturday). BBC One's flagship entertainment show managed a peak of 11.3m (46%), and averaged 9.91m (43.5%) between 6.30pm and 8.30pm. Despite airing later in a more lucrative slot, The X Factor could only score an average of 8.68m (36.2%) from 8.20pm, peaking with 9.9m (39%) midway through its second live show. Many believed that the fallout from Carolynne Poole's controversial exit last Sunday would either send The X Factor's ratings soaring or into decline, but the show pulled in exactly the same audience as last week. While The X Factor added 331k (1.7%) on ITV1 +1 and is repeated again today, initial overnight figures show that Strictly beat its rival by its biggest margin since (more)...
- 10/14/2012
- by By Paul Millar
- Digital Spy
Gary Barlow has admitted that he hates elements of The X Factor. The 41-year-old judge told the Daily Star Sunday that last week's controversial decision to send the elimination vote to deadlock left him close to quitting the show. "This show gets to me because it follows me round all week," he said. "And we are in it from now until Christmas. I hate it but I love it. "Straight away after what happened last week I thought I don't want to do this anymore. "I just thought 'this isn't the way I imagined it to be. After what I've just seen, the singer who did the worst has stayed." Viewers saw Barlow storm off stage after Rylan Clark moved forward in the competition at the expense of his own act Carolynne Poole. The judge revealed that he left the set as he didn't want the cameras to pick...
- 10/14/2012
- by By Alison Rowley
- Digital Spy
Gary Barlow and Louis Walsh have shaken hands live on The X Factor, and vowed to move on after falling out. The judges had reportedly not been speaking to each other this week following last Sunday's programme, where Walsh deliberated over voting to save Barlow's act Carolynne Poole or Rylan Clark. The decision went to Deadlock, and it was revealed that Clark, mentored by Nicole Scherzinger, had been saved by the public vote. Barlow then left the arena. At the beginning of tonight's show (October 13), Barlow (more)...
- 10/13/2012
- by By Frances Taylor
- Digital Spy
Sinitta has given her opinion on last weekend's controversial X Factor results show. The singer, who formerly helped mentor the show's contestants at Judges' Houses, confessed that she didn't think Carolynne Poole's performance was "memorable enough". X Factor judge Gary Barlow stormed off stage on Sunday after Louis Walsh sent the vote to Deadlock, meaning Barlow's act Poole was sent home ahead of Rylan Clark. "It's understandable why he was (more)...
- 10/13/2012
- by By Colin Daniels
- Digital Spy
Simon Cowell has reportedly stepped in to end the backstage drama on The X Factor. The show creator has apparently hired a healer after becoming concerned about the growing tension between Gary Barlow and Louis Walsh. Healer Hazel Taylor has visited the studio to try to put an end to the negative energy and give the contestants a boost, the Daily Star reports. "We need all the help we can get. You can cut the atmosphere with a knife so the healer was brought in to try and see off the bad energy and bring the fun back," a source said. "Hopefully, all of the last week's negativity will be over and we can have a laugh again." Barlow fell out with Walsh after he sent last week's result to Deadlock, meaning Barlow's act Carolynne Poole was sent home ahead (more)...
- 10/13/2012
- by By Colin Daniels
- Digital Spy
X Factor contestants MK1 have argued that the controversy over Rylan Clark's survival in the competition has been "blown out of proportion". The duo insisted that there were no negative feelings backstage when Carolynne Poole was eliminated from the show over Clark last weekend, predicting that compared to previous years the current series will be relatively tame. Speaking to journalists including Digital Spy, MK1 member Simeon Dixon argued: "You usually have more acts like Rylan that create that drama - [so far] it's all just Rylan, so I don't think it's that big [a controversy]. I think it's just been blown out of proportion really." Bandmate Charlie Rundle added: "It wasn't dark backstage, everyone was just there for Rylan and Carolynne. "We all get along so well, no-one was like 'Yes, Carolynne's (more)...
- 10/12/2012
- by By Daniel Sperling
- Digital Spy
Rylan Clark has revealed that he wants to be "mates" with The X Factor judge Gary Barlow. The controversial contestant was placed in the bottom two of the competition on Sunday night's results show with Barlow's act Carolynne Poole, but was saved after the judges went to Deadlock. Barlow had said he was "embarrassed" while watching Clark's performance of Spandau Ballet's hit 'Gold', and criticised mentor Nicole Scherzinger for picking him to go through to the live shows. Asked whether he hated Barlow following the comments, Clark told the official site: "I have absolute respect for Gary as a mentor and as a musician. I really want to win him over - I don't want there to be a war between us. "I reckon by the end of the series we'll be bessie mates â“ move over Robbie, I am taking (more)...
- 10/12/2012
- by By Frances Taylor
- Digital Spy
ITV has released a new dramatic trailer featuring behind-the-scenes footage of last week's controversial X Factor elimination. The teaser for this weekend's Live Show includes footage of shocked contestants and Gary Barlow fuming as he walks down the corridor to his dressing room after the show. Watch this weekend's X Factor trailer below: Louis Walsh caused a Twitter outcry last weekend when he opted to send home Carolynne Poole in the sing-off, offering Essex hopeful Rylan Clark a lifeline. Barlow stormed off the show (more)...
- 10/12/2012
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Simon Cowell could be forced to intervene in Gary Barlow and Louis Walsh's 'X Factor' row. The pair have been angry with each other since the first send off last week - where Carolynne Poole lost out on her spot to Rylan Clark - and backstage has become so tense that show boss Simon is considering ways to sort it out. A source said: ''Gary has made it clear he doesn't think Louis is as relevant as some of the other judges. ''There is a worry that things could get out of hand. The tension backstage is becoming too much. Cowell is close...
- 10/12/2012
- Virgin Media - TV
Louis Walsh has responded to allegations that last weekend's X Factor elimination of Carolynne Poole was a fix. Poole lost out to Rylan Clark after Walsh opted at the last minute to take the bottom two vote to deadlock. Fans complained about Walsh's actions and were annoyed that he was seen talking to exec-producer Richard Holloway during Poole's sing-off performance. Holloway and Walsh have insisted that they were talking about the running order for the judges' vote, but he only spoke with Walsh. Writing a diary piece for the Daily Mail about the incident, Walsh said: "I feel totally torn after Carolynne and Rylan's performances. I like them both. With Rylan I thought the production was so amazing that this is something we'll want to see again. "Carolynne is a great singer. My first instinct is to save her and (more)...
- 10/12/2012
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
X Factor stars Jahmene Douglas and Kye Sones have tipped controversial contestant Rylan Clark to go far in this year's series. Clark has faced a viewer backlash throughout the competition and sparked a scandal when he was saved over Carolynne Poole last week, but the pair told journalists including Digital Spy that they see the model as "a serious contender". "People [think] Rylan is really eccentric, but he's really down to earth," Douglas stressed. "He's actually quite a serious contender. "I think Rylan can switch it up. I've heard some of his stuff on YouTube and he's great. He's fooling all of you, he can sing. I think it's good to hold back in the first few weeks, then build up [support]." When Sones was asked who he saw as his biggest competition, the former chimney sweep replied: (more)...
- 10/11/2012
- by By Daniel Sperling
- Digital Spy
Melanie Masson is ''missing'' Carolynne Poole on 'X Factor'. The blonde singer - who is known for her strong vocals and 70s styling - admits she is sad the country singer, who joined her in Gary Barlow's Over 28s category, has left the competition and says she is a ''beautiful girl with a beautiful voice''. She wrote on twitter: ''Missing my girl Carolynne Poole today. Our hotel room seems very empty! Xxxx ''Carolynne Poole, a beautiful girl with a beautiful voice. Miss ya hun xxxx (sic)'' Speaking after Carolynne left the show on Sunday (07.10.12), Melanie, 44, admitted she was ''very sad'' to see...
- 10/11/2012
- Virgin Media - TV
Gary Barlow is reportedly planning to quit 'The X Factor' after the current series. The 'Take That' singer - who claimed he was 'embarrassed' to be a judge last weekend after his act Carolynne Poole was booted off the show in favour of controversial performer Rylan Clarke - is said to be preparing to reunite with his bandmates for a new album and tour so he won't have time to work on next year's series of the show. A source told The Sun newspaper: 'The events of the last week have really confirmed in Gary's mind that he needs to get back to what he loves best. 'Gary and host Dermot O'Leary laid the law down at Mayfair's Dover Street...
- 10/11/2012
- Monsters and Critics
Gary Barlow is reportedly planning to quit 'The X Factor' after the current series. The Take That singer - who claimed he was ''embarrassed'' to be a judge last weekend after his act Carolynne Poole was booted off the show in favour of controversial performer Rylan Clarke - is said to be preparing to reunite with his bandmates for a new album and tour so he won't have time to work on next year's series of the show. A source told The Sun newspaper: ''The events of the last week have really confirmed in Gary's mind that he needs to get back...
- 10/11/2012
- Virgin Media - TV
Swedish House Mafia are on course to claim their first UK number one single. The DJ group's latest track 'Don't You Worry Child' is currently leading the tally by 22,000 copies, while Adele's James Bond theme 'Skyfall' trails at two. Rihanna's 'Diamonds' slides to three, 'Gangnam Style' by Psy is at four and Leona Lewis is a new entry at five with 'Trouble'. Elsewhere, Maroon 5's 'One More Night' lands at 26, while Disclosure look set to make their Top 40 debut with 'Latch', which is currently at number 39. Eliminated X Factor contestant Carolynne Poole has had an effect on the chart with her sing-off performance of Faith Hill's (more)...
- 10/10/2012
- by By Lewis Corner
- Digital Spy
X Factor judges Gary Barlow and Louis Walsh still aren't speaking after Sunday's Deadlock drama, it has been reported. Barlow stormed off stage after Walsh changed his mind about saving Carolynne Poole, instead opting to keep Rylan Clark, who went on to stay in the competition. The X Factor judges and producers attended a crisis meeting last night, but the pair refused to speak all evening, The Sun reports. "Everyone was hoping for peace talks between Gary and Louis (more)...
- 10/10/2012
- by By Colin Daniels
- Digital Spy
X Factor star Rylan Clark has shown off his brand new Gary Barlow tattoo. Clark got the temporary inking on his back after clashing with Barlow during Sunday's (October 7) results show, which saw him controversially saved over the Take That star's act Carolynne Poole in a chaotic judges' vote. Barlow was seen storming out of the studio when Louis Walsh sent the vote to Deadlock and Poole was revealed to have received the least support from the public. Clark has now proudly displayed his cheeky tribute to the X Factor judge in Heat, adding: "[I call him] Gary Bore-low. (more)...
- 10/10/2012
- by By Daniel Sperling
- Digital Spy
X Factor judges Tulisa, Louis Walsh, Nicole Scherzinger and Gary Barlow met with the show's executive producer Richard Holloway for a reported 'crisis meeting' in London last night (October 9). Walsh caused controversy on the results show last weekend when he seemingly chose finalist Rylan Clark over Carolynne Poole to be sent home before changing his mind and sending it to Deadlock. It was then claimed that the result was fixed and Walsh, who is mentoring the bands this year, (more)...
- 10/10/2012
- by By Naomi Gordon
- Digital Spy
X Factor act Christopher Maloney has reportedly been branded a 'fake' by some of his fellow finalists. The singer - who was voted back into the competition by the public as the lucky wildcard act last weekend - has been described as "big headed" behind the scenes, and it has been alleged that his shy persona is put on for the cameras. "Christopher could not be any more different off camera," an unnamed finalist is quoted as saying in The Sun. "He isn't nervous at all and is actually quite big-headed."
Eliminated singer Carolynne Poole also revealed that (more)...
Eliminated singer Carolynne Poole also revealed that (more)...
- 10/10/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
Gary Barlow has agreed to return to The X Factor this weekend - but has made it clear that he will quit if Sunday's controversial deadlock drama is repeated. The first weekend of live shows ended with Barlow's act Carolynne Poole and Nicole Scherzinger's singer Rylan Clark in the bottom two. After initially saving Poole, Louis Walsh outraged the Take That star by changing his mind and going to deadlock, with Clark winning the public vote. Fans criticised the decision, with many suggesting Walsh was told to go to deadlock by producer Richard Holloway. Holloway has denied any involvement in Walsh's decision. Barlow reportedly called an emergency meeting with production staff after storming off stage on Sunday's results show. While he agreed to return to the programme, he has reportedly demanded that producers "put (more)...
- 10/10/2012
- by By Beth Curtis
- Digital Spy
Ne-Yo has predicted that Rylan Clark will eventually sell records. The R&B singer - who performed his latest single on Sunday's X Factor results show - has said that Clark will prove to be popular in time. Clark survived the threat of elimination on Sunday, after winning the public vote against Carolynne Poole when Louis Walsh elected to take the vote to deadlock. "Everybody knows - including Rylan - that he is not the strongest singer. Rylan is what you would call a character," Ne-Yo told London's Choice Radio. "Not all music is about how well somebody sings. You can't tell me that every song you've ever played on this station, you've played because the vocalist was just incredible. "I dug the fact he was genuine about who he was - he's not putting [it] on. That's really who he is. I'm a singer, (more)...
- 10/9/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
X Factor producer Richard Holloway has hit back at suggestions that he interfered in Carolynne Poole's exit on Sunday night's results show. The first live performances were mired in controversy after Poole and Rylan Clark were left in the bottom two this weekend. With Gary Barlow and Tulisa Contostavlos voting to save Poole and Nicole Scherzinger voting to save her act Clark, the final decision was left to Louis Walsh. However, after Walsh initially said that he wanted to keep Poole in the competition, he changed his mind and took the vote to deadlock - which resulted in Poole leaving the competition.
Since Sunday, viewers and audience members have questioned why producer Holloway was seen speaking to Walsh prior to the controversial decision. One attendee claimed he overheard Walsh telling Contostavlos he (more)...
Since Sunday, viewers and audience members have questioned why producer Holloway was seen speaking to Walsh prior to the controversial decision. One attendee claimed he overheard Walsh telling Contostavlos he (more)...
- 10/9/2012
- by By Beth Curtis
- Digital Spy
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