X Factor heads to arena without finalist Anthony
THIRD-PLACED CONTESTANT OFF TOUR DUE TO ‘PERSONAL REASONS’
Dalton Harris What’s On Reporter AS IT does every year, The X Factor Live tour will arrive in Newcastle, but one of the last series’ most popular acts won’t be there.
The tour will take over the newly named Utilita Arena tomorrow, but while current X Factor champion Dalton Harris and runnerup Scarlett Lee will be there, it has been confirmed that third place contestant Anthony Russell won’t take to the stage and has withdrawn from the rest of the tour.
According to The Sun this is because drugs were discovered in his hotel room, with a source alleging that “suspicious plastic bags” had been found by a cleaner in his Sheffield hotel room on Sunday.
The insider claimed: “He’s off the tour completely and he won’t be coming back.
“All the other performers are gutted because Anthony is a lovely bloke. But he’s got these demons he can’t control at the moment.”
Anthony has addressed the situation on his Facebook page in a lengthy statement reading: “I just want to address this issue personally with you all so the people who have supported me and loved me on my journey know where I am.
“Due to personal circumstances I’ve had to withdraw from the tour. I’m Scarlett Lee
heartbroken to miss the final shows, it has been an honour to sing to you all and a dream come true. It was not a decision made lightly but unfortunately private circumstances out of my control have meant it’s not currently possible for me to continue with further dates.
“I’m so, so sorry to anyone who was looking forward to seeing me, I love and appreciate you all so much and it’s killing me to think anyone is going to be let down.”
A Tour spokesperson told The Chronicle: “Anthony has had to leave the tour for personal reasons.
“We would appreciate people respecting his privacy and wish him well for the future.”
■ If you want to see The X Factor Live in Newcastle, tickets are still available from the Utilita Arena box office and online from Ticketmaster.