‘Bilched.’ (Photo credit: Jay Dykes)
After making his screen debut as the star, writer and co-producer of an Australian teenage romantic comedy, Hal Cumpston could not have imagined what would happen next.
Three weeks after production of Bilched wrapped in Sydney, the 19-year-old was contacted by Us talent agency Industry Entertainment, suggesting he audition for one of the lead roles in AMC Studios’ The Walking Dead spin-off.
Cumpston did a selfie and was then asked to go to Los Angeles, where he nailed the role of Silas in the 10-part series which is now shooting in Richmond, Virginia.
Silas is described as a gentle giant, a shy loner who hates the fact that he scares people in the show created by Scott M. Gimple, which focuses on the first generation to grow up during the zombie apocalypse, co-starring Alexa Mansour, Nicolas Cantu, Aliyah Royale and Annet Mahendru.
The feature directing...
After making his screen debut as the star, writer and co-producer of an Australian teenage romantic comedy, Hal Cumpston could not have imagined what would happen next.
Three weeks after production of Bilched wrapped in Sydney, the 19-year-old was contacted by Us talent agency Industry Entertainment, suggesting he audition for one of the lead roles in AMC Studios’ The Walking Dead spin-off.
Cumpston did a selfie and was then asked to go to Los Angeles, where he nailed the role of Silas in the 10-part series which is now shooting in Richmond, Virginia.
Silas is described as a gentle giant, a shy loner who hates the fact that he scares people in the show created by Scott M. Gimple, which focuses on the first generation to grow up during the zombie apocalypse, co-starring Alexa Mansour, Nicolas Cantu, Aliyah Royale and Annet Mahendru.
The feature directing...
- 11/4/2019
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
Over the last decade, BBC One and ITV have fought it out on Saturday nights over the autumn and winter period with the two biggest shows on UK television.
BBC One's Strictly Come Dancing and ITV's X Factor were in their 12th and 11th series respectively this year, and the rivalry continues to be fierce. But how did they fare in the ratings each week?
Digital Spy has collected the shows' ratings for each episode as a guide to how they performed in 2014.
Note: The ratings provided are the overnight scores as originally reported by Digital Spy, rather than the consolidated figures. The shows were also not always up against each other in the same timeslot.
Saturday, August 30
The X Factor (Auditions 1): 9.03 million (40.9%) and 465,000 (2.2%) on +1
Sunday, August 31
The X Factor (Auditions 2): 7.55m (32.2%) and 643k (2.9%)
Saturday, September 6
The X Factor (Auditions 3): 8.43m (39.4%) and 481k (2.4%)
Sunday, September 7
Strictly Come Dancing...
BBC One's Strictly Come Dancing and ITV's X Factor were in their 12th and 11th series respectively this year, and the rivalry continues to be fierce. But how did they fare in the ratings each week?
Digital Spy has collected the shows' ratings for each episode as a guide to how they performed in 2014.
Note: The ratings provided are the overnight scores as originally reported by Digital Spy, rather than the consolidated figures. The shows were also not always up against each other in the same timeslot.
Saturday, August 30
The X Factor (Auditions 1): 9.03 million (40.9%) and 465,000 (2.2%) on +1
Sunday, August 31
The X Factor (Auditions 2): 7.55m (32.2%) and 643k (2.9%)
Saturday, September 6
The X Factor (Auditions 3): 8.43m (39.4%) and 481k (2.4%)
Sunday, September 7
Strictly Come Dancing...
- 12/22/2014
- Digital Spy
The voting percentages for The X Factor 2014 have been revealed.
With 57.2% of the vote, Ben Haenow beat Fleur East and Andrea Faustini in the final, who received 34.3% and 8.5% of the total vote respectively.
Although Andrea received the most votes in the early weeks, Ben was the nation's favourite act for the last seven weeks of the competition.
The X Factor: See the full Digital Spy reader vote statistics for 2014
The full breakdown of voting percentages for The X Factor 2014 follows below:
Week 1 (Double elimination)
Andrea Faustini - 19.2%
Lauren Platt - 10.4%
Paul Akister - 10.0%
Ben Haenow - 8.7%
Fleur East - 6.0%
Lola Saunders - 5.7%
Jay James - 5.5%
Jake Quickenden - 5.1%
Jack Walton - 5.0%
Stevi Ritchie - 4.9%
Stereo Kicks - 4.6%
Chloe Jasmine - 4.3%
Only the Young - 4.0%
Stephanie Nala - 2.9%
Overload Generation - 2.7%
Blonde Electra - 1.0%
Week 2 (Double elimination)
Andrea Faustini - 14.5%
Lauren Platt - 12.7%
Paul Akister - 9.9%
Ben Haenow - 9.1%
Jay James...
With 57.2% of the vote, Ben Haenow beat Fleur East and Andrea Faustini in the final, who received 34.3% and 8.5% of the total vote respectively.
Although Andrea received the most votes in the early weeks, Ben was the nation's favourite act for the last seven weeks of the competition.
The X Factor: See the full Digital Spy reader vote statistics for 2014
The full breakdown of voting percentages for The X Factor 2014 follows below:
Week 1 (Double elimination)
Andrea Faustini - 19.2%
Lauren Platt - 10.4%
Paul Akister - 10.0%
Ben Haenow - 8.7%
Fleur East - 6.0%
Lola Saunders - 5.7%
Jay James - 5.5%
Jake Quickenden - 5.1%
Jack Walton - 5.0%
Stevi Ritchie - 4.9%
Stereo Kicks - 4.6%
Chloe Jasmine - 4.3%
Only the Young - 4.0%
Stephanie Nala - 2.9%
Overload Generation - 2.7%
Blonde Electra - 1.0%
Week 2 (Double elimination)
Andrea Faustini - 14.5%
Lauren Platt - 12.7%
Paul Akister - 9.9%
Ben Haenow - 9.1%
Jay James...
- 12/14/2014
- Digital Spy
Two Overs in The X Factor Grand Finale. Who'd-a-thunk it?
Fleur East and Ben Haenow have beaten off Jack Walton, Stereo Kicks and Stevi Ritchie (oh, behave!) to make it to Wembley tonight.
And although we won't be seeing Andi Peters at the CD printing press (more for shame), we can expect more Louis Walsh, celebratory sausages and One Direction.
Crack out the eggnog and join Digital Spy as we await the news of whether Fleur or Ben will follow the illustrious steps of Shayne Ward, Steve Brookstein and Leon Jackson to take The X Factor crown.
Even more exciting than that, we're also hoping for an update on whether Labrinth ever had his wisdom teeth out...
22:01Anyway, that's it everyone! With one last plug for the tour, we're over and out. Goodnight all!
21:59There are too many X Factor finalists there with shaved sides of their heads.
Fleur East and Ben Haenow have beaten off Jack Walton, Stereo Kicks and Stevi Ritchie (oh, behave!) to make it to Wembley tonight.
And although we won't be seeing Andi Peters at the CD printing press (more for shame), we can expect more Louis Walsh, celebratory sausages and One Direction.
Crack out the eggnog and join Digital Spy as we await the news of whether Fleur or Ben will follow the illustrious steps of Shayne Ward, Steve Brookstein and Leon Jackson to take The X Factor crown.
Even more exciting than that, we're also hoping for an update on whether Labrinth ever had his wisdom teeth out...
22:01Anyway, that's it everyone! With one last plug for the tour, we're over and out. Goodnight all!
21:59There are too many X Factor finalists there with shaved sides of their heads.
- 12/14/2014
- Digital Spy
Two Overs in The X Factor Grand Finale. Who'd-a-thunk it?
Fleur East and Ben Haenow have beaten off Jack Walton, Stereo Kicks and Stevi Ritchie (oh, behave!) to make it to Wembley tonight.
And although we won't be seeing Andi Peters at the CD printing press (more for shame), we can expect more Louis Walsh, celebratory sausages and One Direction.
Crack out the eggnog and join Digital Spy as we await the news of whether Fleur or Ben will follow the illustrious steps of Shayne Ward, Steve Brookstein and Leon Jackson to take The X Factor crown.
Even more exciting than that, we're also hoping for an update on whether Labrinth ever had his wisdom teeth out...
22:01Anyway, that's it everyone! With one last plug for the tour, we're over and out. Goodnight all!
21:59There are too many X Factor finalists there with shaved sides of their heads.
Fleur East and Ben Haenow have beaten off Jack Walton, Stereo Kicks and Stevi Ritchie (oh, behave!) to make it to Wembley tonight.
And although we won't be seeing Andi Peters at the CD printing press (more for shame), we can expect more Louis Walsh, celebratory sausages and One Direction.
Crack out the eggnog and join Digital Spy as we await the news of whether Fleur or Ben will follow the illustrious steps of Shayne Ward, Steve Brookstein and Leon Jackson to take The X Factor crown.
Even more exciting than that, we're also hoping for an update on whether Labrinth ever had his wisdom teeth out...
22:01Anyway, that's it everyone! With one last plug for the tour, we're over and out. Goodnight all!
21:59There are too many X Factor finalists there with shaved sides of their heads.
- 12/14/2014
- Digital Spy
Strictly Come Dancing: The Results: BBC One, 7.45pm
Tess Daly teams with fill-in host Zoë Ball to reveal who'll be the sixth couple to be swept off the dance-floor.
The musical guest is Katherine Jenkins, performing a 1940s classic to mark Remembrance Sunday.
The X Factor Results: ITV, 8pm
Following last night's Michael Jackson vs Queen performances, we'll find out who'll be following Jack Walton and Lola Saunders out the door.
Plus, there are performances from trendy singer-songwriter Sam Smith and international superstars (and X Factor graduates) One Direction.
Downton Abbey: ITV, 9pm
ITV's phenomenally popular period drama brings its fifth series to a close tonight, though a sixth is on the way.
In the finale, Rose (Lily James) is finally set to marry Atticus (Matt Barber) but family tensions threaten to derail her big day.
Homeland: Channel 4, 9pm
In the fifth of 12 episodes, Carrie (Claire Danes...
Tess Daly teams with fill-in host Zoë Ball to reveal who'll be the sixth couple to be swept off the dance-floor.
The musical guest is Katherine Jenkins, performing a 1940s classic to mark Remembrance Sunday.
The X Factor Results: ITV, 8pm
Following last night's Michael Jackson vs Queen performances, we'll find out who'll be following Jack Walton and Lola Saunders out the door.
Plus, there are performances from trendy singer-songwriter Sam Smith and international superstars (and X Factor graduates) One Direction.
Downton Abbey: ITV, 9pm
ITV's phenomenally popular period drama brings its fifth series to a close tonight, though a sixth is on the way.
In the finale, Rose (Lily James) is finally set to marry Atticus (Matt Barber) but family tensions threaten to derail her big day.
Homeland: Channel 4, 9pm
In the fifth of 12 episodes, Carrie (Claire Danes...
- 11/9/2014
- Digital Spy
Mel C has praised her fellow Spice Girl Mel B as an X Factor judge.
The singer told Digital Spy and others that she believes Mel B's "honesty" is helping to stand her out on the panel.
X Factor Halloween review: The Fright Night twist we all saw coming
"She's doing a great job on X Factor. We're dead proud. I think she's the best thing on it," Mel C said at the launch of West End musical Made in Dagenham on Wednesday night (November 5).
"I just think she's a great woman for the job. She's straight-talking, she's not playing a role. She's just being herself, and I think you have to appreciate her honesty.
"I wouldn't want to be a contestant... but she's doing a wonderful job."
Meanwhile, Mel B made a Twitter gaffe at the weekend when she asked fans to save the already-eliminated Jake Quickenden.
The X Factor...
The singer told Digital Spy and others that she believes Mel B's "honesty" is helping to stand her out on the panel.
X Factor Halloween review: The Fright Night twist we all saw coming
"She's doing a great job on X Factor. We're dead proud. I think she's the best thing on it," Mel C said at the launch of West End musical Made in Dagenham on Wednesday night (November 5).
"I just think she's a great woman for the job. She's straight-talking, she's not playing a role. She's just being herself, and I think you have to appreciate her honesty.
"I wouldn't want to be a contestant... but she's doing a wonderful job."
Meanwhile, Mel B made a Twitter gaffe at the weekend when she asked fans to save the already-eliminated Jake Quickenden.
The X Factor...
- 11/6/2014
- Digital Spy
There were fireworks at The X Factor house this week - no, we actually mean actual fireworks. For Bonfire Night.
The remaining contestants were treated to a party at their North London home to mark the occasion - complete with a special fireworks display and piles of tasty treats.
Jack Walton and Lola Saunders - both of whom were eliminated at the weekend - were able to enjoy the bash, although we're not sure how much Jack liked Stereo Kicks' James Graham dressing up as a mummy.
Continuing the spooky theme, Andrea Faustini posed with a skull - though we're not quite sure why - and got into the party spirit by having a drink and a dance with Only The Young's Betsy-Blue English (we don't know why she's wielding a coat hanger).
Also getting into the party spirit were Stereo Kicks, who appeared to be sipping on blue...
The remaining contestants were treated to a party at their North London home to mark the occasion - complete with a special fireworks display and piles of tasty treats.
Jack Walton and Lola Saunders - both of whom were eliminated at the weekend - were able to enjoy the bash, although we're not sure how much Jack liked Stereo Kicks' James Graham dressing up as a mummy.
Continuing the spooky theme, Andrea Faustini posed with a skull - though we're not quite sure why - and got into the party spirit by having a drink and a dance with Only The Young's Betsy-Blue English (we don't know why she's wielding a coat hanger).
Also getting into the party spirit were Stereo Kicks, who appeared to be sipping on blue...
- 11/4/2014
- Digital Spy
Jack Walton believes the Fright Night theme was the reason he was eliminated from 'The X Factor'. The 18-year-old pop hopeful was kicked off the show after receiving the least amount of votes from the public following his cover of Leona Lewis' single 'Bleeding Love' on Saturday night (01.11.14). Jack - who was mentored by Mel B - claims he was given mixed messages about what to do with his performance which affected him on the night. During an interview on 'This Morning', he said: ''I did feel confident but I was mixed because obviously it's a themed night so everyone wants you...
- 11/3/2014
- Virgin Media - TV
Louis Walsh had some bolts on his neck. Mel B and Cheryl growled at the camera, and Simon Cowell attempted to move his latest round of Botox by raising his eyebrows. Yes, it was a truly horrifying Halloween edition of The X Factor - although perhaps not for the right reasons.
A large amount of the 'Fright Night' special was spent building up the tension about a spooky, scary twist. It was hard to get too excited about the "shocking" twist for two reasons.
1. We were all told about it on Friday. It was on the front page of The Sun, for heaven's sake.
2. The twist was a person being eliminated. This Happens Every Week. It's not even remotely exciting.
After a decade on air, every possible twist and alteration to the mechanism of voting off singers week by week has been and gone. So it's probably about...
A large amount of the 'Fright Night' special was spent building up the tension about a spooky, scary twist. It was hard to get too excited about the "shocking" twist for two reasons.
1. We were all told about it on Friday. It was on the front page of The Sun, for heaven's sake.
2. The twist was a person being eliminated. This Happens Every Week. It's not even remotely exciting.
After a decade on air, every possible twist and alteration to the mechanism of voting off singers week by week has been and gone. So it's probably about...
- 11/3/2014
- Digital Spy
Jack Walton has said that he should have stayed "true to [himself]" after he was eliminated on The X Factor.
The singer, who received the fewest votes on Saturday night (November 1), added on This Morning that he struggled to "get in the right vibe" during his performance of 'Bleeding Love'.
"I've really enjoyed [The X Factor]," he said. "The whole thing's been really good, but the song for me was not something I would usually do.
"It was a weird mix between getting dressed up and having the girl come over and bite my neck to giving a serious performance. It was hard for me to get in the right vibe."
Walton added: "When you come into a show like this and you're surrounded by so many successful people - and people that know what they're talking about - you think as soon as you meet them, 'I'd best listen to whatever you say,...
The singer, who received the fewest votes on Saturday night (November 1), added on This Morning that he struggled to "get in the right vibe" during his performance of 'Bleeding Love'.
"I've really enjoyed [The X Factor]," he said. "The whole thing's been really good, but the song for me was not something I would usually do.
"It was a weird mix between getting dressed up and having the girl come over and bite my neck to giving a serious performance. It was hard for me to get in the right vibe."
Walton added: "When you come into a show like this and you're surrounded by so many successful people - and people that know what they're talking about - you think as soon as you meet them, 'I'd best listen to whatever you say,...
- 11/3/2014
- Digital Spy
One Direction and Sam Smith will both perform on The X Factor next weekend.
The acts will take to the stage during Sunday's (November 9) results show, before another act leaves the competition.
Next week's theme has been changed for the second time, after producers dropped the planned Disco Week even after announcing it on air. The theme for Saturday's (November 8) episode will now be Queen Versus Michael Jackson.
Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh had revealed the disco theme in a conversation on The Xtra Factor tonight (November 2).
Producer Mark Sidaway later tweeted: "Disco just died. We've a new theme coming......"
A message soon appeared on the main X Factor Twitter account to confirm the change: "The #newtheme is...Queen versus Michael Jackson. Tune in 8pm Saturday night @itv #xfactor."
It was previously thought that the week would revolve around a girlband vs boyband theme.
Sidaway also confirmed that Big Band Week will follow on Saturday,...
The acts will take to the stage during Sunday's (November 9) results show, before another act leaves the competition.
Next week's theme has been changed for the second time, after producers dropped the planned Disco Week even after announcing it on air. The theme for Saturday's (November 8) episode will now be Queen Versus Michael Jackson.
Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh had revealed the disco theme in a conversation on The Xtra Factor tonight (November 2).
Producer Mark Sidaway later tweeted: "Disco just died. We've a new theme coming......"
A message soon appeared on the main X Factor Twitter account to confirm the change: "The #newtheme is...Queen versus Michael Jackson. Tune in 8pm Saturday night @itv #xfactor."
It was previously thought that the week would revolve around a girlband vs boyband theme.
Sidaway also confirmed that Big Band Week will follow on Saturday,...
- 11/2/2014
- Digital Spy
Lola Saunders has been eliminated from The X Factor.
Saunders faced the sing-off alongside Stereo Kicks, after they were both revealed to be the bottom two acts of the week.
Saunders performed Aretha Franklin's '(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman', while Stereo Kicks sang 'Perfect' by Pink.
Louis Walsh saved his boyband, while Cheryl Fernandez-Versini sided with her act Saunders.
Mel B wanted to send home Saunders, while Simon Cowell took the decision to deadlock.
It was then revealed that Saunders would be going home.
On hearing the news, Saunders said: "I tried the best that I could at the end of the day, but this experience has been life changing."
Saunders joins Jack Walton, who was sent home in an elimination during yesterday's (November 1) Fright Night-themed show.
A group performance of Katy Perry's 'Firework' kicked off the show, before John Legend and Fernandez-Versini...
Saunders faced the sing-off alongside Stereo Kicks, after they were both revealed to be the bottom two acts of the week.
Saunders performed Aretha Franklin's '(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman', while Stereo Kicks sang 'Perfect' by Pink.
Louis Walsh saved his boyband, while Cheryl Fernandez-Versini sided with her act Saunders.
Mel B wanted to send home Saunders, while Simon Cowell took the decision to deadlock.
It was then revealed that Saunders would be going home.
On hearing the news, Saunders said: "I tried the best that I could at the end of the day, but this experience has been life changing."
Saunders joins Jack Walton, who was sent home in an elimination during yesterday's (November 1) Fright Night-themed show.
A group performance of Katy Perry's 'Firework' kicked off the show, before John Legend and Fernandez-Versini...
- 11/2/2014
- Digital Spy
In a close vote, more than 8,400 Digital Spy readers have decided that Jack Walton was right to leave The X Factor.
58.64% of voters believed that the dismissal of the singer from the show in a surprise eviction on Saturday (November 1) was the correct decision.
Tonight's show (November 2) saw Lola Saunders leave the competition following a sing-off against Stereo Kicks.
Sunday's episode also featured performances from Cheryl Fernandez-Versini and John Legend.
The X Factor continues on Saturday (November 8) at 8pm.
58.64% of voters believed that the dismissal of the singer from the show in a surprise eviction on Saturday (November 1) was the correct decision.
Tonight's show (November 2) saw Lola Saunders leave the competition following a sing-off against Stereo Kicks.
Sunday's episode also featured performances from Cheryl Fernandez-Versini and John Legend.
The X Factor continues on Saturday (November 8) at 8pm.
- 11/2/2014
- Digital Spy
Last night's Halloween-themed X Factor saw Louis Walsh attach some screws to his neck, a spray-painted Andrea Faustini relighting the fire of the 90s and the shock elimination of Jack Walton.
But the horror is only just beginning for the rest of the acts, as they face tonight's countdown to the weekend's second elimination.
Join us from 8pm as we follow all the terrifying action and discover which act will become the second to be cast out of the contest this weekend.
20:59That's all for tonight - we hope you enjoyed watching along with us! Join us again next weekend for even more X Factor drama!
20:58And that's that for another week! Next week we'll be treated to guest performances from Sam Smith and the mighty X Factor graduates themselves, One Direction.
20:57Lola says that she tried the best she could in the sing off but that...
But the horror is only just beginning for the rest of the acts, as they face tonight's countdown to the weekend's second elimination.
Join us from 8pm as we follow all the terrifying action and discover which act will become the second to be cast out of the contest this weekend.
20:59That's all for tonight - we hope you enjoyed watching along with us! Join us again next weekend for even more X Factor drama!
20:58And that's that for another week! Next week we'll be treated to guest performances from Sam Smith and the mighty X Factor graduates themselves, One Direction.
20:57Lola says that she tried the best she could in the sing off but that...
- 11/2/2014
- Digital Spy
The X Factor celebrated Halloween one day late on Saturday (November 1) as part of its Fright Night episode.
The contestants performed the spookiest songs ever recorded, leading up to Jack Walton figuratively becoming a ghost due to a shock elimination.
Digital Spy rounds up the best Twitter reactions to The X Factor's Fright Night below:
1. Louis 'Frankenstein' Walsh was the only judge to dress up for Halloween – and his costume was… interesting.
@tvpausemoments @TheXFactor Just watching Xfactor, Louis Walsh pic.twitter.com/GyfolyBUpg
— Ross Marron (@MarronRoss) November 1, 2014
Oh dear. Have they pulled the "it's fancy dress tonight" prank on Louis Walsh? #XFactor
— Andy Goulding (@AndyGoulding) November 1, 2014
Louis Walsh on fright night = pic.twitter.com/qkWhf4zuA0
— stevefroggatt (@Froggy123Steve) November 1, 2014
Love the fact Louis Walsh just randomly has a couple of bolts attached to his neck, but nothing else, fancy dress wise?!? #Wtf #XFactor
— Scott Hughes (@ScottHughesUK) November 1, 2014
This...
The contestants performed the spookiest songs ever recorded, leading up to Jack Walton figuratively becoming a ghost due to a shock elimination.
Digital Spy rounds up the best Twitter reactions to The X Factor's Fright Night below:
1. Louis 'Frankenstein' Walsh was the only judge to dress up for Halloween – and his costume was… interesting.
@tvpausemoments @TheXFactor Just watching Xfactor, Louis Walsh pic.twitter.com/GyfolyBUpg
— Ross Marron (@MarronRoss) November 1, 2014
Oh dear. Have they pulled the "it's fancy dress tonight" prank on Louis Walsh? #XFactor
— Andy Goulding (@AndyGoulding) November 1, 2014
Louis Walsh on fright night = pic.twitter.com/qkWhf4zuA0
— stevefroggatt (@Froggy123Steve) November 1, 2014
Love the fact Louis Walsh just randomly has a couple of bolts attached to his neck, but nothing else, fancy dress wise?!? #Wtf #XFactor
— Scott Hughes (@ScottHughesUK) November 1, 2014
This...
- 11/2/2014
- Digital Spy
The X Factor eliminee Jack Walton has admitted that he started feeling like he didn't fit on the show.
Walton was voted out of the competition in tonight's twist elimination after failing to impress viewers with his cover of 'Bleeding Love'.
Speaking on The Xtra Factor immediately after his exit, he confessed that he was "gutted".
"I'm going to miss everyone so much," he said. "I've met some amazing people and made some really good friends, but I've got to look at the positives. I was playing in pubs and I made it to the live shows of The X Factor - it's amazing to get this far."
Meanwhile, his judge Mel B commented: "What can you do? What can you say? He's such a great guy, a Northern lad through and through. He tried his hardest, he just went for it, but the votes weren't there and it's sad.
Walton was voted out of the competition in tonight's twist elimination after failing to impress viewers with his cover of 'Bleeding Love'.
Speaking on The Xtra Factor immediately after his exit, he confessed that he was "gutted".
"I'm going to miss everyone so much," he said. "I've met some amazing people and made some really good friends, but I've got to look at the positives. I was playing in pubs and I made it to the live shows of The X Factor - it's amazing to get this far."
Meanwhile, his judge Mel B commented: "What can you do? What can you say? He's such a great guy, a Northern lad through and through. He tried his hardest, he just went for it, but the votes weren't there and it's sad.
- 11/1/2014
- Digital Spy
Week Four saw The X Factor contestants perform the most frightening songs ever recorded in honour of Halloween.
Digital Spy rounds up what Simon Cowell, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, Mel B and Louis Walsh had to say about Saturday night's (November 1) acts - and if you missed the show, you can catch up with all the performances below, too:
1. Ben Haenow: 'Highway to Hell' by AC/DC
Louis: "What an opening! You are the real deal, an authentic rock voice and it would absolutely get a recording deal."
Mel B: "Wow! What just happened?! By far, your best performance to date."
2. Lola Saunders: 'Crazy' by Gnarls Barkley
Mel B: "Cheryl, this week you have got it spot on. This is the Lola I want to see. Well done to you."
Simon: "By a mile your best performance so far [and] the first time I've seen you confident.
Digital Spy rounds up what Simon Cowell, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, Mel B and Louis Walsh had to say about Saturday night's (November 1) acts - and if you missed the show, you can catch up with all the performances below, too:
1. Ben Haenow: 'Highway to Hell' by AC/DC
Louis: "What an opening! You are the real deal, an authentic rock voice and it would absolutely get a recording deal."
Mel B: "Wow! What just happened?! By far, your best performance to date."
2. Lola Saunders: 'Crazy' by Gnarls Barkley
Mel B: "Cheryl, this week you have got it spot on. This is the Lola I want to see. Well done to you."
Simon: "By a mile your best performance so far [and] the first time I've seen you confident.
- 11/1/2014
- Digital Spy
Forget horror movies, Halloween Week on The X Factor is the true stuff of nightmares.
With songs by Meatloaf, Michael Jackson and Phantom of the Opera, the acts were not only fighting for a place in next week's show, but also a place in tomorrow's results show, as Simon Cowell shocked us with a surprise elimination.
The festivities concluded with Jack Walton being eliminated.
So, who impressed you this week?
Vote for your favourite X Factor performer below and let us know your thoughts in our comments section.
The X Factor results will air tomorrow (November 2) at 8pm on ITV.
With songs by Meatloaf, Michael Jackson and Phantom of the Opera, the acts were not only fighting for a place in next week's show, but also a place in tomorrow's results show, as Simon Cowell shocked us with a surprise elimination.
The festivities concluded with Jack Walton being eliminated.
So, who impressed you this week?
Vote for your favourite X Factor performer below and let us know your thoughts in our comments section.
The X Factor results will air tomorrow (November 2) at 8pm on ITV.
- 11/1/2014
- Digital Spy
Fright Night turned out to be more of a trick than a treat for Jack Walton, as The X Factor celebrated a belated Halloween.
Simon Cowell's heavily-hyped twist saw Jack Walton eliminated from the competition tonight (November 1), ahead of a second exit on Sunday (November 2).
Was it the right decision? Vote in our poll and leave your thoughts on the shock elimination in our comments section:...
Simon Cowell's heavily-hyped twist saw Jack Walton eliminated from the competition tonight (November 1), ahead of a second exit on Sunday (November 2).
Was it the right decision? Vote in our poll and leave your thoughts on the shock elimination in our comments section:...
- 11/1/2014
- Digital Spy
Jack Walton has been voted off The X Factor in an extra elimination this week.
The singer was sent home after 2 million votes were cast throughout the Halloween-themed Fright Night.
Walton received a mixed reaction from the judges for his version of Leona Lewis's 'Bleeding Love'.
The contestant was criticised by Simon Cowell for not taking full use of the stage, echoing concerns which had been raised before.
Cowell added that he was confused by Walton getting bitten by a vampire halfway through his Halloween-themed performance.
"From where you started – cool, playing guitar – you're now being eaten by a vampire in the middle of the song," Cowell complained.
Cheryl Fernandez-Versini added: "I felt your nerves. Something wasn't connecting with you. You didn't seem comfortable."
One Direction's Louis Tomlinson took to Twitter in the aftermath of the elimination to defend Walton.
"Gutted. Don't think he was given a fair chance with his songs.
The singer was sent home after 2 million votes were cast throughout the Halloween-themed Fright Night.
Walton received a mixed reaction from the judges for his version of Leona Lewis's 'Bleeding Love'.
The contestant was criticised by Simon Cowell for not taking full use of the stage, echoing concerns which had been raised before.
Cowell added that he was confused by Walton getting bitten by a vampire halfway through his Halloween-themed performance.
"From where you started – cool, playing guitar – you're now being eaten by a vampire in the middle of the song," Cowell complained.
Cheryl Fernandez-Versini added: "I felt your nerves. Something wasn't connecting with you. You didn't seem comfortable."
One Direction's Louis Tomlinson took to Twitter in the aftermath of the elimination to defend Walton.
"Gutted. Don't think he was given a fair chance with his songs.
- 11/1/2014
- Digital Spy
The X Factor judge Mel B made quite a gaffe on Twitter tonight (November 1), when she asked fans to save the already-eliminated Jake Quickenden.
Mel B attempted to rally support for Jack Walton ahead of tonight's shock elimination, but accidentally got him confused with Quickenden.
"Do not let @JakeQuickenden go Pls pls vote vote vote," she tweeted.
The judge was soon alerted to her mistake, writing: "Opppsss @jwaltonmusic."
Quickenden took the error in stride, replying: "oh no am I supposed to be singing lol #votejack"
Quickenden was eliminated from The X Factor last week, after losing a sing-off to Only The Young.
Mel B attempted to rally support for Jack Walton ahead of tonight's shock elimination, but accidentally got him confused with Quickenden.
"Do not let @JakeQuickenden go Pls pls vote vote vote," she tweeted.
The judge was soon alerted to her mistake, writing: "Opppsss @jwaltonmusic."
Quickenden took the error in stride, replying: "oh no am I supposed to be singing lol #votejack"
Quickenden was eliminated from The X Factor last week, after losing a sing-off to Only The Young.
- 11/1/2014
- Digital Spy
It's Fright Night on The X Factor this week and boy, wouldn't you know it! Not only are the acts all singing 'Fright Night'-themed songs (or, well, they're supposed to be) but one of them will be booted out before the night is out after Simon Cowell got fed up with them all for not trying hard enough. If that's not all scary enough, The Script will be popping along to perform.
So join us when the show starts at 8pm as we find out who gives us thrills and who gives us chills. And, of course, who's having a right nightmare and will have to leave the competition...
22:12It's not even over - the vote lines are open again, and someone's going to be sent home tomorrow. All your votes still count but we get another free five app ones - hooray! But that's it for...
So join us when the show starts at 8pm as we find out who gives us thrills and who gives us chills. And, of course, who's having a right nightmare and will have to leave the competition...
22:12It's not even over - the vote lines are open again, and someone's going to be sent home tomorrow. All your votes still count but we get another free five app ones - hooray! But that's it for...
- 11/1/2014
- Digital Spy
X Factor finalist Jack Walton has been getting into the spirit of Halloween by rehearsing for the show shirtless while covered in blood.
17 X Factor theme weeks that could help save the show
The young hopeful in Mel B's Boys category - and One Direction star Louis Tomlinson's favourite - was pictured dripping in the stuff as he stood in front of a green screen while practising ahead of Saturday's Fright Night special.
The star was wearing a pair of black jeans and that was it - we're guessing that was Mel's idea.
Walton will be performing Leona Lewis's 'Bleeding Love' on the Live Show this weekend, which will also feature a double elimination twist, with the act with the fewest votes at the end automatically going home on the night.
Meanwhile, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini was photographed demonstrating dance moves for her contestant Lauren Platt, who will be...
17 X Factor theme weeks that could help save the show
The young hopeful in Mel B's Boys category - and One Direction star Louis Tomlinson's favourite - was pictured dripping in the stuff as he stood in front of a green screen while practising ahead of Saturday's Fright Night special.
The star was wearing a pair of black jeans and that was it - we're guessing that was Mel's idea.
Walton will be performing Leona Lewis's 'Bleeding Love' on the Live Show this weekend, which will also feature a double elimination twist, with the act with the fewest votes at the end automatically going home on the night.
Meanwhile, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini was photographed demonstrating dance moves for her contestant Lauren Platt, who will be...
- 10/31/2014
- Digital Spy
The X Factor acts will have to work hard to impress this week - especially now that we know one of them will be booted off on Saturday night before a second elimination on Sunday. Things are getting scary this Halloween!
Of course, song choice is always hugely important - and we now know which Fright Night tracks the 11 remaining contestants will be belting out in an attempt to stay in the competition. Read on for all the details...
Boys
Andrea Faustini
'Relight My Fire' - Take That
Jack Walton
'Bleeding Love' - Leona Lewis
Paul Akister
'Bat Out of Hell' - Meat Loaf
Girls
Lauren Platt
'Dark Horse' - Katy Perry
Lola Saunders
'Crazy' - Gnarls Barkley
Groups
Only The Young
'The Monster Mash' - Bobby Pickett
Stereo Kicks
'Everybody (Backstreet's Back)' - Backstreet Boys
Overs
Ben Haenow
'Highway To Hell' - AC...
Of course, song choice is always hugely important - and we now know which Fright Night tracks the 11 remaining contestants will be belting out in an attempt to stay in the competition. Read on for all the details...
Boys
Andrea Faustini
'Relight My Fire' - Take That
Jack Walton
'Bleeding Love' - Leona Lewis
Paul Akister
'Bat Out of Hell' - Meat Loaf
Girls
Lauren Platt
'Dark Horse' - Katy Perry
Lola Saunders
'Crazy' - Gnarls Barkley
Groups
Only The Young
'The Monster Mash' - Bobby Pickett
Stereo Kicks
'Everybody (Backstreet's Back)' - Backstreet Boys
Overs
Ben Haenow
'Highway To Hell' - AC...
- 10/31/2014
- Digital Spy
Jake Quickenden has spoken about leaving The X Factor, saying that he never did himself justice on the Live Shows.
The singer, who was sent home by the judges tonight (October 26), said that he will now prove himself after leaving the competition.
Speaking on The Xtra Factor, Quickenden said: "I don't think i've done myself justice on any of the live shows, I can be a lot better than that, and I'll prove that, but I want to get my fingers in all kinds of pies now, work-wise."
He also spoke about his experience on the show, saying: "Honestly, it has to happen, everybody has to leave, and it doesn't mean I'm not going to do well.
"I've done an amazing thing and I've been on such a class journey and I've literally made friends for life."
Quickenden spoke about his mentor Mel B, saying: "We just saw each other and she was upset.
The singer, who was sent home by the judges tonight (October 26), said that he will now prove himself after leaving the competition.
Speaking on The Xtra Factor, Quickenden said: "I don't think i've done myself justice on any of the live shows, I can be a lot better than that, and I'll prove that, but I want to get my fingers in all kinds of pies now, work-wise."
He also spoke about his experience on the show, saying: "Honestly, it has to happen, everybody has to leave, and it doesn't mean I'm not going to do well.
"I've done an amazing thing and I've been on such a class journey and I've literally made friends for life."
Quickenden spoke about his mentor Mel B, saying: "We just saw each other and she was upset.
- 10/26/2014
- Digital Spy
Digital Spy readers have chosen Andrea Faustini as their favourite performer from X Factor's Movies Week.
The 20-year-old Italian received 22.14% of the votes in the poll, which attracted votes from more than 14,000 readers.
Faustini impressed the judges with a version of 'Listen' from Dreamgirls on yesterday's (October 25) show.
Fleur East came second in the poll with 17.1% of the vote, followed by Stereo Kicks with 12.02%.
Lauren Platt took 11.87% to finish fourth, while Paul Akister completed the top five with 8.84% of votes.
Ben Haenow came sixth with 7.32%, followed by Only The Young with 6.11% and Jay James with 3.80%.
Lola Saunders finished ninth with 3.78%, while Jack Walton finished tenth with 3.12%.
Stevi Ritchie was next with 2.44% and Jake Quickenden finished bottom of the poll, receiving 1.47% of the vote.
The X Factor continues with a double elimination tonight (October 26) at 8pm.
The 20-year-old Italian received 22.14% of the votes in the poll, which attracted votes from more than 14,000 readers.
Faustini impressed the judges with a version of 'Listen' from Dreamgirls on yesterday's (October 25) show.
Fleur East came second in the poll with 17.1% of the vote, followed by Stereo Kicks with 12.02%.
Lauren Platt took 11.87% to finish fourth, while Paul Akister completed the top five with 8.84% of votes.
Ben Haenow came sixth with 7.32%, followed by Only The Young with 6.11% and Jay James with 3.80%.
Lola Saunders finished ninth with 3.78%, while Jack Walton finished tenth with 3.12%.
Stevi Ritchie was next with 2.44% and Jake Quickenden finished bottom of the poll, receiving 1.47% of the vote.
The X Factor continues with a double elimination tonight (October 26) at 8pm.
- 10/26/2014
- Digital Spy
Jack Walton has revealed what last-minute changes Mel B was referring to following his performance on The X Factor tonight (Saturday, October 25).
Speaking on The Xtra Factor, Walton explained that a larger spectacle had been planned - including dancing and him having his top ripped open - but he didn't feel comfortable with that.
"They wanted to have a bit more of a performance with me getting my top ripped open, dancing around a bit," he said.
"But I just felt that cheapened the act a little bit - I didn't want to rip my top open.
"It's not what I'd do at a gig, so I didn't see why I should do it tonight."
When asked by host Sarah-Jane Crawford whether he'd consider it next week, Walton added: "Nah... [I'll] just concentrate on my performance."
Watch Jack's performance of 'Eye of the Tiger' by Survivor from Rocky below:...
Speaking on The Xtra Factor, Walton explained that a larger spectacle had been planned - including dancing and him having his top ripped open - but he didn't feel comfortable with that.
"They wanted to have a bit more of a performance with me getting my top ripped open, dancing around a bit," he said.
"But I just felt that cheapened the act a little bit - I didn't want to rip my top open.
"It's not what I'd do at a gig, so I didn't see why I should do it tonight."
When asked by host Sarah-Jane Crawford whether he'd consider it next week, Walton added: "Nah... [I'll] just concentrate on my performance."
Watch Jack's performance of 'Eye of the Tiger' by Survivor from Rocky below:...
- 10/25/2014
- Digital Spy
Week Three saw The X Factor contestants perform famous songs from the long and glorious history of the movies.
Digital Spy rounds up what Simon Cowell, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, Mel B and Louis Walsh had to say about Saturday night's (October 25) acts - and if you missed the show, you can catch up with all the performances below, too:
1. Jake Quickenden: 'She's Like The Wind' by Patrick Swayze (from Dirty Dancing)
Louis: "You probably should have spent more time in the studio than the gym."
Simon: "If you do last another week, and I think that's unlikely after that, you need to get better at singing. I'm disappointed for you."
2. Only The Young: 'Boom Clap' by Charli Xcx (from The Fault In Our Stars)
Mel B: "I really really like that song. I thought you did a great job. I would have liked to have heard a few more harmonies,...
Digital Spy rounds up what Simon Cowell, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, Mel B and Louis Walsh had to say about Saturday night's (October 25) acts - and if you missed the show, you can catch up with all the performances below, too:
1. Jake Quickenden: 'She's Like The Wind' by Patrick Swayze (from Dirty Dancing)
Louis: "You probably should have spent more time in the studio than the gym."
Simon: "If you do last another week, and I think that's unlikely after that, you need to get better at singing. I'm disappointed for you."
2. Only The Young: 'Boom Clap' by Charli Xcx (from The Fault In Our Stars)
Mel B: "I really really like that song. I thought you did a great job. I would have liked to have heard a few more harmonies,...
- 10/25/2014
- Digital Spy
Tonight (October 25) saw Movie Week return to The X Factor stage with ballads, musicals and poppy songs galore.
Digital Spy rounds up the best tweets from Week 3:
Jake Quickenden kicked off the show with what some took to be a bad version of Patrick Swayze's 'She's Like The Wind':
I'm sorry but "she's like the wind" is one of my fave songs...not for me hon, not for me!very basic vocal #XFactor
— Zoe Birkett (@iamzoebirkett) October 25, 2014
They're so tight on @JakeQuickenden he sounded beautiful #Xfactor
— Jeta (@XxJeta) October 25, 2014
Only The Young didn't get the best reception:
Only The Young are an eight-legged freshers' week #xfactor
— Chris Bennion (@PigLimbedViking) October 25, 2014
Make It Stop. What Is this? #xfactor
— Rosemary Mac Cabe (@RosemaryMacCabe) October 25, 2014
Lots of love for Andrea Faustini:
@rudemrlang I'm all about wee Italian teddy bear on X Factor.
— Lisa O'Donnell (@LisaODonnell72) October 25, 2014
There was a mixed...
Digital Spy rounds up the best tweets from Week 3:
Jake Quickenden kicked off the show with what some took to be a bad version of Patrick Swayze's 'She's Like The Wind':
I'm sorry but "she's like the wind" is one of my fave songs...not for me hon, not for me!very basic vocal #XFactor
— Zoe Birkett (@iamzoebirkett) October 25, 2014
They're so tight on @JakeQuickenden he sounded beautiful #Xfactor
— Jeta (@XxJeta) October 25, 2014
Only The Young didn't get the best reception:
Only The Young are an eight-legged freshers' week #xfactor
— Chris Bennion (@PigLimbedViking) October 25, 2014
Make It Stop. What Is this? #xfactor
— Rosemary Mac Cabe (@RosemaryMacCabe) October 25, 2014
Lots of love for Andrea Faustini:
@rudemrlang I'm all about wee Italian teddy bear on X Factor.
— Lisa O'Donnell (@LisaODonnell72) October 25, 2014
There was a mixed...
- 10/25/2014
- Digital Spy
Two weeks ago, we said farewell to Blonde Electra and Overload Generation. Last weekend, Stephanie Nala and Chloe Jasmine bit the dust.
We're nearing November now, and remarkably we still have 12 acts left standing. Let's fix that, shall we?
Join Digital Spy tonight, as the remaining contestants belt out movie classics in a bid to impress the judges and, more importantly, the Great British public.
22:07Well, that's me done for tonight. Thanks for reading and commenting - hope you weren't sick of my moaning. See you around!
22:04Dermot confirms that OneRepublic and Ed Sheeran are performing live on the results show tomorrow.
22:03Not many standouts tonight sadly, but who's in danger? Things don't look good for Jake, and I think Paul isn't completely safe. Are people bored of Stevi yet?
22:02As the show recaps all of the performances and the numbers you can call, I'm giving...
We're nearing November now, and remarkably we still have 12 acts left standing. Let's fix that, shall we?
Join Digital Spy tonight, as the remaining contestants belt out movie classics in a bid to impress the judges and, more importantly, the Great British public.
22:07Well, that's me done for tonight. Thanks for reading and commenting - hope you weren't sick of my moaning. See you around!
22:04Dermot confirms that OneRepublic and Ed Sheeran are performing live on the results show tomorrow.
22:03Not many standouts tonight sadly, but who's in danger? Things don't look good for Jake, and I think Paul isn't completely safe. Are people bored of Stevi yet?
22:02As the show recaps all of the performances and the numbers you can call, I'm giving...
- 10/25/2014
- Digital Spy
And The X Factor title goes to...
Nope, we've not got that far yet. Still another couple of months to go - but Saturday night is Movie Night on ITV's primetime reality TV juggernaut.
So dust off your gladrags, order in the popcorn and stop trying to work out which member of Stereo Kicks is which for a moment - because tomorrow night's song choices are in. There's power ballads aplenty, so expect more key changes than a Westlife album.
Which young hopeful will be hoping to meet the challenge of his rivals, who wants you to 'Listen' to them and which soloist has the unenviable task of singing a track originally performed by four artists? Find out below...
X Factor 2014 Movies Week: Original versions playlist
Boys
Jack Walton
'Eye Of The Tiger' by Survivor (from Rocky)
Andrea Faustini
'Listen' by Beyoncé (from Dreamgirls)
Jake Quickenden
'She's Like...
Nope, we've not got that far yet. Still another couple of months to go - but Saturday night is Movie Night on ITV's primetime reality TV juggernaut.
So dust off your gladrags, order in the popcorn and stop trying to work out which member of Stereo Kicks is which for a moment - because tomorrow night's song choices are in. There's power ballads aplenty, so expect more key changes than a Westlife album.
Which young hopeful will be hoping to meet the challenge of his rivals, who wants you to 'Listen' to them and which soloist has the unenviable task of singing a track originally performed by four artists? Find out below...
X Factor 2014 Movies Week: Original versions playlist
Boys
Jack Walton
'Eye Of The Tiger' by Survivor (from Rocky)
Andrea Faustini
'Listen' by Beyoncé (from Dreamgirls)
Jake Quickenden
'She's Like...
- 10/24/2014
- Digital Spy
Ed Sheeran has revealed that he is backing "fantastic" X Factor singer Andrea Faustini on the ITV show this year.
The 23-year-old songwriter admitted that he was even compelled to text Simon Cowell about his admiration for the finalist.
"I texted Cowell about the Italian dude because I think he is fantastic," Sheeran told The Sun.
"I like his love of pugs as well that he gives no f**k and wears whatever he wants."
Faustini is in Mel B's Boys category along with Jake Quickenden, Paul Akister and Jack Walton.
Cowell recently revealed that he had received a text message from One Direction's Liam Payne about how much he loved Walton, who was brought back to the show by Cowell with a wildcard.
Kate Moss also spoke of her love for Faustini as she, Noel Gallagher and Naomi Campbell watched his performance on The X Factor during...
The 23-year-old songwriter admitted that he was even compelled to text Simon Cowell about his admiration for the finalist.
"I texted Cowell about the Italian dude because I think he is fantastic," Sheeran told The Sun.
"I like his love of pugs as well that he gives no f**k and wears whatever he wants."
Faustini is in Mel B's Boys category along with Jake Quickenden, Paul Akister and Jack Walton.
Cowell recently revealed that he had received a text message from One Direction's Liam Payne about how much he loved Walton, who was brought back to the show by Cowell with a wildcard.
Kate Moss also spoke of her love for Faustini as she, Noel Gallagher and Naomi Campbell watched his performance on The X Factor during...
- 10/22/2014
- Digital Spy
"It's time to put on make-up, it's time to dress up right. It's time to raise the curtains on The Muppet Show tonight...
"Why do we always come here? I guess we'll never know. It's like a kind of torture, to have to watch the show."
Kermit Cheryl, Fozzie Bear Simon, Mel B played by grumpy Sam the Eagle and Louis 'Sweetums' Walsh rolled back the years for X Factor '80s Week.
However, no amount of muppeting around and name-calling from the panto-lite foursome could distract from the biggest jokes of the night. The contestants.
Kicking off the show was Jack Walton. You know Jack. He's in the Boys category. No, he's not the Italian one. No, he's not the one that can sing. No, he's not the one with the arms. Yeah, that's right - the other one.
Jack went through the rich history of '80s popular...
"Why do we always come here? I guess we'll never know. It's like a kind of torture, to have to watch the show."
Kermit Cheryl, Fozzie Bear Simon, Mel B played by grumpy Sam the Eagle and Louis 'Sweetums' Walsh rolled back the years for X Factor '80s Week.
However, no amount of muppeting around and name-calling from the panto-lite foursome could distract from the biggest jokes of the night. The contestants.
Kicking off the show was Jack Walton. You know Jack. He's in the Boys category. No, he's not the Italian one. No, he's not the one that can sing. No, he's not the one with the arms. Yeah, that's right - the other one.
Jack went through the rich history of '80s popular...
- 10/20/2014
- Digital Spy
Digital Spy readers have selected Lauren Platt as their favourite performer on X Factor 80s week.
The 17-year-old Essex girl received 18.23% of the poll, which attracted votes from more than 15,000 readers.
Platt impressed the judges with a version of Irene Cara's 'What A Feeling' on yesterday's (October 18) show.
Andrea Faustini came second in the poll with 16.39% of the vote, followed by Fleur East with 9.93%.
Ben Haenow took 8.49% to finish fourth, while Only The Young completed the top five with 7.92%.
Paul Akister came sixth with 7.76%, followed by Jay James with 7.53% and Lola Saunders with 6.52%.
Chloe Jasmine finished ninth with 3.33%, while Jack Walton finished tenth with 3.19%.
Stereo Kicks were next with 2.96%, Stevi Ritchie earned 2.59% of the vote and Stephanie Nala followed with 2.45%.
Jake Quickened finished bottom of the poll, receiving 2.41% of the vote.
The X Factor continues with a double elimination tonight (October 19) at 8pm.
The 17-year-old Essex girl received 18.23% of the poll, which attracted votes from more than 15,000 readers.
Platt impressed the judges with a version of Irene Cara's 'What A Feeling' on yesterday's (October 18) show.
Andrea Faustini came second in the poll with 16.39% of the vote, followed by Fleur East with 9.93%.
Ben Haenow took 8.49% to finish fourth, while Only The Young completed the top five with 7.92%.
Paul Akister came sixth with 7.76%, followed by Jay James with 7.53% and Lola Saunders with 6.52%.
Chloe Jasmine finished ninth with 3.33%, while Jack Walton finished tenth with 3.19%.
Stereo Kicks were next with 2.96%, Stevi Ritchie earned 2.59% of the vote and Stephanie Nala followed with 2.45%.
Jake Quickened finished bottom of the poll, receiving 2.41% of the vote.
The X Factor continues with a double elimination tonight (October 19) at 8pm.
- 10/19/2014
- Digital Spy
The X Factor kicked off '80s Week tonight (October 18) as all 14 acts took to the stage.
Digital Spy rounds up the best comments from judges Louis Walsh, Simon Cowell, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini and Mel B.
1. Jack Walton: 'Straight Up' by Paula Abdul
Louis: "You're the real deal, a real artist, you're all about the music."
Cheryl: "Each week you do a really good twist on a song, and I thoroughly enjoyed that."
2. Stephanie Nala: 'Call Me' by Blondie
Mel B: "I do think it really shows you've worked extremely hard this week, but I got a little bit bored in the middle. Loved the vibe, but wanted it to take me somewhere else halfway through."
Simon: "A million times better than last week. The tone of your voice was better. The only problem is it is like you're half-asleep, when you talk and when you perform.
Digital Spy rounds up the best comments from judges Louis Walsh, Simon Cowell, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini and Mel B.
1. Jack Walton: 'Straight Up' by Paula Abdul
Louis: "You're the real deal, a real artist, you're all about the music."
Cheryl: "Each week you do a really good twist on a song, and I thoroughly enjoyed that."
2. Stephanie Nala: 'Call Me' by Blondie
Mel B: "I do think it really shows you've worked extremely hard this week, but I got a little bit bored in the middle. Loved the vibe, but wanted it to take me somewhere else halfway through."
Simon: "A million times better than last week. The tone of your voice was better. The only problem is it is like you're half-asleep, when you talk and when you perform.
- 10/18/2014
- Digital Spy
It doesn't feel like a week has passed since One Direction Overload Generation and Blonde Electra said their goodbyes, but it's time for two more solid hours of Saturday night-in entertainment with The X Factor.
The remaining 14 acts will sing their hearts out to earn the praise of the judges Simon Cowell, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, Mel B and Louis Walsh, as well as the millions watching at home, complete with five free votes each should they wish.
Join Digital Spy from 8pm as we settle down for the night for the inevitable judge fisticuffs, impressive high notes and dodgy boyband hand movements.
22:20That's your lot, guys and girls! Thanks for joining along in the fun - hope you enjoyed it - see you back tomorrow night to find out who must leave the competiton.
22:19So tomorrow we have Jessie J and Maroon 5. Yay?
22:16Fleur also gave a great performance.
The remaining 14 acts will sing their hearts out to earn the praise of the judges Simon Cowell, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, Mel B and Louis Walsh, as well as the millions watching at home, complete with five free votes each should they wish.
Join Digital Spy from 8pm as we settle down for the night for the inevitable judge fisticuffs, impressive high notes and dodgy boyband hand movements.
22:20That's your lot, guys and girls! Thanks for joining along in the fun - hope you enjoyed it - see you back tomorrow night to find out who must leave the competiton.
22:19So tomorrow we have Jessie J and Maroon 5. Yay?
22:16Fleur also gave a great performance.
- 10/18/2014
- Digital Spy
With little more than a day until the next X Factor live show, it's time to find out which songs the remaining 14 acts will be tackling!
On Saturday night (October 18), the finalists will be travelling back to the 1980s, so expect some big power ballads, lots of cheesy song choices, and some that will definitely have you scratching your head...
X Factor: DS readers choose Andrea Faustini as their early favourite
Boys
Jack Walton
'If You Don't Know Me By Now' by Simply Red
Andrea Faustini
'One Moment In Time' by Whitney Houston
Jake Quickenden
'Total Eclipse of the Heart' by Bonnie Tyler
Paul Akister
'Straight Up' by Paula Abdul
Girls
Chloe Jasmine
'Fame' by Irene Cara
Stephanie Nala
'Call Me' by Blondie
Lauren Platt
'What A Feeling' by Irene Cara
Lola Saunders
'Imagine' by John Lennon
Overs
Ben Haenow
'Jealous Guy' by John Lennon
Jay James...
On Saturday night (October 18), the finalists will be travelling back to the 1980s, so expect some big power ballads, lots of cheesy song choices, and some that will definitely have you scratching your head...
X Factor: DS readers choose Andrea Faustini as their early favourite
Boys
Jack Walton
'If You Don't Know Me By Now' by Simply Red
Andrea Faustini
'One Moment In Time' by Whitney Houston
Jake Quickenden
'Total Eclipse of the Heart' by Bonnie Tyler
Paul Akister
'Straight Up' by Paula Abdul
Girls
Chloe Jasmine
'Fame' by Irene Cara
Stephanie Nala
'Call Me' by Blondie
Lauren Platt
'What A Feeling' by Irene Cara
Lola Saunders
'Imagine' by John Lennon
Overs
Ben Haenow
'Jealous Guy' by John Lennon
Jay James...
- 10/17/2014
- Digital Spy
The X Factor 2014 started its Live Shows with a No.1s Week theme. It's almost as if they wanted us to make the obvious joke about there being a large steaming pile of No.2s on the Fountain Studios stage. But we wouldn't be that crass.
It feels too early to be overly harsh about the Class of Series 11 - we've got a couple more months of this to endure yet - and this wasn't the worst crop of X Factor contestants we've ever been gifted. The real problem with this weekend's shows was that it felt like we'd seen it all before. About 10 times before, to be precise.
Simon Cowell couldn't even be bothered to tuck his shirt in on Saturday night's show, which pretty much embodied the shoulder shrug attitude from the producers and judges this year. Will this do? I guess it will have to, because it's this or the bloody Voice.
It feels too early to be overly harsh about the Class of Series 11 - we've got a couple more months of this to endure yet - and this wasn't the worst crop of X Factor contestants we've ever been gifted. The real problem with this weekend's shows was that it felt like we'd seen it all before. About 10 times before, to be precise.
Simon Cowell couldn't even be bothered to tuck his shirt in on Saturday night's show, which pretty much embodied the shoulder shrug attitude from the producers and judges this year. Will this do? I guess it will have to, because it's this or the bloody Voice.
- 10/13/2014
- Digital Spy
Digital Spy readers have selected Andrea Faustini as their early favourite for X Factor 2014 in a poll.
The 20-year-old Italian received 34.15% of the poll, which attracted votes from more than 14,000 DS readers.
Faustini impressed the judges with a version of Michael Jackson's 'Earth Song' on yesterday's (October 11) show.
Lauren Platt came second in the poll with 11.86% of the vote, followed by Ben Haenow with 8.85%.
Fleur East took 7.9% to finish fourth, while Paul Akister completed the top five with 6.8%.
Chloe Jasmine came sixth with 4.27%, followed by Only The Young with 3.82% and Lola Saunders with 3.73%.
Jack Walton finished ninth with 3.53%, while Stereo Kicks finished tenth with 2.88%.
Jake Quickenden came in eleventh place with 2.77%.
Stephanie Nala was in twelfth place with 2.71% and Jay James followed with 2.33%.
Stevi Ritchie achieved 1.87% of the vote, while Blonde Electra received 1.51%.
Overload Generation finished bottom of the poll, receiving only 1% of the vote.
The X Factor continues tonight (Sunday,...
The 20-year-old Italian received 34.15% of the poll, which attracted votes from more than 14,000 DS readers.
Faustini impressed the judges with a version of Michael Jackson's 'Earth Song' on yesterday's (October 11) show.
Lauren Platt came second in the poll with 11.86% of the vote, followed by Ben Haenow with 8.85%.
Fleur East took 7.9% to finish fourth, while Paul Akister completed the top five with 6.8%.
Chloe Jasmine came sixth with 4.27%, followed by Only The Young with 3.82% and Lola Saunders with 3.73%.
Jack Walton finished ninth with 3.53%, while Stereo Kicks finished tenth with 2.88%.
Jake Quickenden came in eleventh place with 2.77%.
Stephanie Nala was in twelfth place with 2.71% and Jay James followed with 2.33%.
Stevi Ritchie achieved 1.87% of the vote, while Blonde Electra received 1.51%.
Overload Generation finished bottom of the poll, receiving only 1% of the vote.
The X Factor continues tonight (Sunday,...
- 10/12/2014
- Digital Spy
The X Factor kicked off the Live Shows tonight (October 11) – setting social media abuzz with commentary about the acts, the judges and Dermot!
Digital Spy rounds up the funniest reactions to the live shows below:
Simon Cowell narrowly avoided the wrath of Mrs Fernandez-Versini when he shushed her as he criticised her wildcard act Lola Saunders's outfit, but Twitter seemed to be on his side:
Haha love Simon shushing Cheryl. #xfactor
— Wayne Power (@PowerWayne) October 11, 2014
@TheXFactor #XFactor that dress is bloody awful!
— paula simpson (@pauliepie33) October 11, 2014
X factor stylish needs sacking asap
— Laura Watson (@laurawatson28) October 11, 2014
It was also revealed that wildcard Jack Walton already has one famous fan, as Simon Cowell said that One Direction's Louis Tomlinson had texted him to ask why the singer hadn't made it through to the Live Shows.
Louis was quick to reply to 'boss' Cowell.
Getting a shout from the boss...
Digital Spy rounds up the funniest reactions to the live shows below:
Simon Cowell narrowly avoided the wrath of Mrs Fernandez-Versini when he shushed her as he criticised her wildcard act Lola Saunders's outfit, but Twitter seemed to be on his side:
Haha love Simon shushing Cheryl. #xfactor
— Wayne Power (@PowerWayne) October 11, 2014
@TheXFactor #XFactor that dress is bloody awful!
— paula simpson (@pauliepie33) October 11, 2014
X factor stylish needs sacking asap
— Laura Watson (@laurawatson28) October 11, 2014
It was also revealed that wildcard Jack Walton already has one famous fan, as Simon Cowell said that One Direction's Louis Tomlinson had texted him to ask why the singer hadn't made it through to the Live Shows.
Louis was quick to reply to 'boss' Cowell.
Getting a shout from the boss...
- 10/11/2014
- Digital Spy
Stevi Ritchie, Lola Saunders, Jack Walton and Overload have reportedly been chosen as 'The X Factor' wild cards. Last weekend's shows saw the four judges - Louis Walsh, Simon Cowell, Mel B and Cheryl Fernandez-Versini - each pick three contestants from their categories to go through to the live shows. And it's now been revealed that they've each chosen one contestant from each others categories to come back as ''wild cards''. Louis Walsh, who chose to put through Blonde Elektra, Only The Young and the yet to be named new boy band from his groups category, is reported by the Daily...
- 10/8/2014
- Virgin Media - TV
Is everyone happy? Mel B chose her Top 3 Boys on tonight's episode of The X Factor, so now we know which men will be taking to the stage in the Live Shows. But who made it? Read on for all the details you need...
1. Andrea Faustini
What Mel said: On the plus side, Mel said Andrea makes everybody "happy" when he gets up and performs. She did express concern that people might not be able to identify with him because he's Italian. Um. Anyway, then she told him: "You are going through to the next round!" And laughed a lot.
The reaction: Andrea basically seemed speechless and then demanded a hug, promising not to disappoint her. After blowing her a kiss he got another hug from Dermot and said he was "completely out of his mind". "I can't wait for London! I'll have perfect English," he added.
2. Paul Akister
What...
1. Andrea Faustini
What Mel said: On the plus side, Mel said Andrea makes everybody "happy" when he gets up and performs. She did express concern that people might not be able to identify with him because he's Italian. Um. Anyway, then she told him: "You are going through to the next round!" And laughed a lot.
The reaction: Andrea basically seemed speechless and then demanded a hug, promising not to disappoint her. After blowing her a kiss he got another hug from Dermot and said he was "completely out of his mind". "I can't wait for London! I'll have perfect English," he added.
2. Paul Akister
What...
- 10/4/2014
- Digital Spy
Andrea Faustini wows Mel B in Mexico on tonight's (October 3) episode of The X Factor.
The Italian singer makes a big impression on his mentor and guest judge Emma Bunton with a performance of Jennifer Hudson's 'And I Am Telling You'.
Speaking to Faustini before his performance, Mel B asks: "Are you focused and ready? You look it."
"Yes, I'm ready. I can't wait," he replies.
Bunton ends up having to comfort her fellow Spice Girl after Faustini leaves the stage, as she is left in tears by his performance.
Faustini is competing against Jake Quickenden, Paul Akister, Jack Walton, Jordan Morris and Danny Dearden for a place in the Top 12.
The X Factor continues tonight at 9pm on ITV.
The Italian singer makes a big impression on his mentor and guest judge Emma Bunton with a performance of Jennifer Hudson's 'And I Am Telling You'.
Speaking to Faustini before his performance, Mel B asks: "Are you focused and ready? You look it."
"Yes, I'm ready. I can't wait," he replies.
Bunton ends up having to comfort her fellow Spice Girl after Faustini leaves the stage, as she is left in tears by his performance.
Faustini is competing against Jake Quickenden, Paul Akister, Jack Walton, Jordan Morris and Danny Dearden for a place in the Top 12.
The X Factor continues tonight at 9pm on ITV.
- 10/3/2014
- Digital Spy
The X Factor is back tonight with the first of Judges' Houses - and it's Louis Walsh's Groups who are first up to try to make it into the live shows.
Yep, the six groups will attempt to win over Louis and his guest mentor Tulisa - and the episode will also feature the first couple of Mel B's Boys attempting to impress not just one, but two Spice Girls as they perform for Emma Bunton in the hope of getting into the live shows.
Obviously, as everyone always bangs on, song choice is always very important. So what will everyone be singing? We have the details, so read on to find out...
The Groups
Only The Young
'Ghost' - Ella Henderson
Blonde Electric
'Gold Digger' - Kanye West
The Brooks
'Jar of Hearts' - Christina Perri
New Girl Group
'Say Something' - A Great Big World & Christina Aguilera...
Yep, the six groups will attempt to win over Louis and his guest mentor Tulisa - and the episode will also feature the first couple of Mel B's Boys attempting to impress not just one, but two Spice Girls as they perform for Emma Bunton in the hope of getting into the live shows.
Obviously, as everyone always bangs on, song choice is always very important. So what will everyone be singing? We have the details, so read on to find out...
The Groups
Only The Young
'Ghost' - Ella Henderson
Blonde Electric
'Gold Digger' - Kanye West
The Brooks
'Jar of Hearts' - Christina Perri
New Girl Group
'Say Something' - A Great Big World & Christina Aguilera...
- 10/2/2014
- Digital Spy
The X Factor hopeful Jack Walton falters during his Judges' House audition tonight - and Mel B halts him mid-song.
The 18-year-old flies to Mexico with the rest of the Boys to perform for Mel B and Emma Bunton in an attempt to make it through to the live shows.
Speaking before his audition, Walton admits that he has "always had a bit of a self-belief problem" and adds: "This is my life, I only get one. This is what I want to do - if I can't do it then [I feel like I'm] failing at life."
However, Mel B is unimpressed during his performance of Beyoncé's 'Halo' and tells him to stop.
In front of the rest of the Boys category, who are watching on, she gets up and goes over to Walton to tell him: "You can do so much better than that. You have to look at us and connect with it.
The 18-year-old flies to Mexico with the rest of the Boys to perform for Mel B and Emma Bunton in an attempt to make it through to the live shows.
Speaking before his audition, Walton admits that he has "always had a bit of a self-belief problem" and adds: "This is my life, I only get one. This is what I want to do - if I can't do it then [I feel like I'm] failing at life."
However, Mel B is unimpressed during his performance of Beyoncé's 'Halo' and tells him to stop.
In front of the rest of the Boys category, who are watching on, she gets up and goes over to Walton to tell him: "You can do so much better than that. You have to look at us and connect with it.
- 10/2/2014
- Digital Spy
Emma Bunton has said that she and Mel B had an "amazing" time filming Judges' Houses on The X Factor.
The woman formerly known as Baby Spice told ITV's Good Morning Britain that she and Mel B drank tequila together during filming in Mexico.
"It was incredible, it was a very quick turn around, I don't like to be away from my children for too long so I was there for 72 hours and it was amazing," Bunton said.
"It was amazing to be with Mel, she's great fun we had a little bit of tequila while we were there and it was really good.
"The boys that she has are just brilliant it was a very, very tough [decision] but she's got a great group!"
Asked if she would have any more children, the mother-of-two added: "I'm always broody, the thing is… I love babies so who knows, I'd love to...
The woman formerly known as Baby Spice told ITV's Good Morning Britain that she and Mel B drank tequila together during filming in Mexico.
"It was incredible, it was a very quick turn around, I don't like to be away from my children for too long so I was there for 72 hours and it was amazing," Bunton said.
"It was amazing to be with Mel, she's great fun we had a little bit of tequila while we were there and it was really good.
"The boys that she has are just brilliant it was a very, very tough [decision] but she's got a great group!"
Asked if she would have any more children, the mother-of-two added: "I'm always broody, the thing is… I love babies so who knows, I'd love to...
- 10/1/2014
- Digital Spy
The X Factor's Judges' Houses stage can be a terrifying experience - so imagine what it's like if you're performing for Scary Spice herself! Luckily, Mel B enlisted her fellow Spice GIrl Emma Bunton to help her choose the three boys who'll make it through to the live shows...
Here's a rundown of all the photos you need before Judges' Houses this weekend... although we'll be honest, we're not quite sure what on Earth is going on in this one below. Only on X Factor, eh?
Andrea Faustini
Not only does Andrea love pugs, but he wants a pair called "Simon" and "Cowell". Surely that's enough to send him through immediately?
Hmm, apparently he also has to sing a bit first. Oh well. At least he looks like he's going for it - and maybe his love for the Spice Girls will help him through. (On Mel B, he said: "I love her voice,...
Here's a rundown of all the photos you need before Judges' Houses this weekend... although we'll be honest, we're not quite sure what on Earth is going on in this one below. Only on X Factor, eh?
Andrea Faustini
Not only does Andrea love pugs, but he wants a pair called "Simon" and "Cowell". Surely that's enough to send him through immediately?
Hmm, apparently he also has to sing a bit first. Oh well. At least he looks like he's going for it - and maybe his love for the Spice Girls will help him through. (On Mel B, he said: "I love her voice,...
- 9/30/2014
- Digital Spy
24 X Factor hopefuls have made it through to the Judges' Houses stage.
Six acts will now compete for three spots in each of the Girls, Boys, Groups and Over 25 categories in exotic locations around the world.
X Factor's Top 6 Girls revealed: Who should make the Live Shows?
Flying out to Nice to compete for a place in Cheryl Fernandez-Versini's Girls category are Lola Saunders, Lauren Platt, Kerrianne Covell, Chloe Jasmine, Emily Middlemas and Stephanie Nala.
The acts fighting for a spot in Mel B's Boys group are Andrea Faustini, Jake Quickenden, Jordan Morris, Paul Akister, Danny Dearden and Jack Walton. They all head out to Cancun.
X Factor's Top 6 Boys revealed: Who should make the Live Shows?
Louis Walsh flies the Group hopefuls out to Bermuda, with Only The Young, Blonde Electric, New Boy Band, New Girl Group, Concept and The Brooks competing for their place in the live shows.
Six acts will now compete for three spots in each of the Girls, Boys, Groups and Over 25 categories in exotic locations around the world.
X Factor's Top 6 Girls revealed: Who should make the Live Shows?
Flying out to Nice to compete for a place in Cheryl Fernandez-Versini's Girls category are Lola Saunders, Lauren Platt, Kerrianne Covell, Chloe Jasmine, Emily Middlemas and Stephanie Nala.
The acts fighting for a spot in Mel B's Boys group are Andrea Faustini, Jake Quickenden, Jordan Morris, Paul Akister, Danny Dearden and Jack Walton. They all head out to Cancun.
X Factor's Top 6 Boys revealed: Who should make the Live Shows?
Louis Walsh flies the Group hopefuls out to Bermuda, with Only The Young, Blonde Electric, New Boy Band, New Girl Group, Concept and The Brooks competing for their place in the live shows.
- 9/28/2014
- Digital Spy
24 X Factor hopefuls have made it through to the Judges' Houses stage.
Six acts will now compete for three spots in each of the Girls, Boys, Groups and Over 25 categories in exotic locations around the world.
X Factor's Top 6 Girls revealed: Who should make the Live Shows?
Flying out to Nice to compete for a place in Cheryl Fernandez-Versini's Girls category are Lola Saunders, Lauren Platt, Kerrianne Covell, Chloe Jasmine, Emily Middlemas and Stephanie Nala.
The acts fighting for a spot in Mel B's Boys group are Andrea Faustini, Jake Quickenden, Jordan Morris, Paul Akister, Danny Dearden and Jack Walton. They all head out to Cancun.
X Factor's Top 6 Boys revealed: Who should make the Live Shows?
Louis Walsh flies the Group hopefuls out to Bermuda, with Only The Young, Blonde Electric, New Boy Band, New Girl Group, Concept and The Brooks competing for their place in the live shows.
Six acts will now compete for three spots in each of the Girls, Boys, Groups and Over 25 categories in exotic locations around the world.
X Factor's Top 6 Girls revealed: Who should make the Live Shows?
Flying out to Nice to compete for a place in Cheryl Fernandez-Versini's Girls category are Lola Saunders, Lauren Platt, Kerrianne Covell, Chloe Jasmine, Emily Middlemas and Stephanie Nala.
The acts fighting for a spot in Mel B's Boys group are Andrea Faustini, Jake Quickenden, Jordan Morris, Paul Akister, Danny Dearden and Jack Walton. They all head out to Cancun.
X Factor's Top 6 Boys revealed: Who should make the Live Shows?
Louis Walsh flies the Group hopefuls out to Bermuda, with Only The Young, Blonde Electric, New Boy Band, New Girl Group, Concept and The Brooks competing for their place in the live shows.
- 9/28/2014
- Digital Spy
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