Fake Factor
Cowell’s hopefuls are already rising stars on YouTube
AHEAD of The X Factor’s latest series, Simon Cowell boasted how this year’s contestants were of a particularly high standard.
And it seems there may be a reason they’re so skilled.
For the show has become embroiled in controversy after it emerged that many of those auditioning are already experienced performers, or rising stars with millions of fans on YouTube.
Despite the obvious ability of those on stage, the programme has failed to stem the decline in viewers. In its worst ratings performance since 2006, two million fewer tuned in to Saturday night’s opening episode compared to last year.
Those who did sit down to watch the launch of the 12th series were treated to Filipino girl band Fourth Power, who sailed through to the next round with judge Cowell gushing about ‘the biggest four yeses we’ve ever given’.
However the four sisters are already reality TV stars in their native country, after appearing on two X Factor-style shows there and one in South Korea. They have also reportedly released records on Amazon, and are incredibly popular online with more than two million views on YouTube.
Cowell had reportedly said that producers did ‘a great job’ in finding the band. But a show spokesman has since denied that they were scouted, insisting they auditioned of their own accord.
Meanwhile 19-year- old student Tom Bleasby – who earned a standing ovation – was a YouTube superstar long before auditioning for the show and had dueted
‘Anyone can apply’
with pop star Jessie J in an online video.
Soul singer Louisa Johnson, 17, has also starred in her own professional music videos while Lauren Murray – who was presented as a receptionist with dreams of stardom – has at least four years’ experience in the music industry. The 25-yearold also appears in a professionally-shot music video online and appeared to be releasing an album.
Twenty-one-year-old Mason Noise is a rising star in British urban music, and has boasted how his song Take A Seat was played on MTV in America.
There was also speculation over auditionee Jon Goodey’s personal connections to the show, as the 27-year-old is presenter Olly Murs’ former bandmate.
The X Factor has had a major makeover this year, after viewing figures for the 2014 finale slumped to a ten-year low. New judges Rita Ora and Nick Grimshaw have joined Cheryl Fernandez-Versini and Cowell, with Murs and Caroline Flack taking over as hosts.
However just 7.1million watched Saturday’s episode, compared with around nine million last year. Cowell, 55, had previously said of this year’s series: ‘This show does feel better, the talent’s great, they’re interesting.’
A spokesman for the ITV show said last night: ‘Anyone can apply for The X Factor, regardless of experience. Fourth Power’s previous performing experience was acknowledged on the show.’
Christopher Stevens – Page 53