The X Factor
The X Factor current logo (2006 – present)
Format	Talent show
Created by	Simon Cowell
Presented by	ITV Network: Dermot O'Leary (Series 4 –) ITV2 Network: Holly Willoughby (Series 5 –)
Judges	Simon Cowell (Series 1 –) Dannii Minogue (Series 4 –) Louis Walsh (Series 1 –) Cheryl Cole (Series 5 –)
Voices of	Peter Dickson, Enn Reitel
Country of origin	United Kingdom
Language(s)	English
No. A talent show is a live performance spectacle (sometimes on television where contestants perform Acting, Singing, Dancing, Acrobatics, } Simon Phillip Cowell (born October 7 1959 is an English artist-and-repertoire ("A&R" executive and Television personality / producer Seán Dermot Fintan O'Leary Jr (born 24 May, 1973 in Colchester, England) better known as Dermot O'Leary, is an British Holly Marie Willoughby (born 10 February 1981 in Brighton) is an English Television presenter, best known for the ITV1 } Simon Phillip Cowell (born October 7 1959 is an English artist-and-repertoire ("A&R" executive and Television personality / producer Danielle Jane Minogue (born 20 October 1971 known as Dannii, is an Australian singer songwriter Television personality and occasional actress, Michael Louis Vincent (born 5 August 1952 in Kiltimagh, County Mayo) better known as Louis Walsh, is an Irish Music manager, and Cheryl Ann Cole (née Tweedy; born 30 June 1983 is an English Singer, and member of the band Girls Aloud. Peter Dickson is a British radio presenter television announcer and voice over artist who rose to prominence in the 1990s Enn Reitel (born 21 June 1950) is a Scottish Actor and Impressionist who specialises in voice work. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom, the UK or Britain,is a Sovereign state located English is a West Germanic language originating in England and is the First language for most people in the United Kingdom, the United States of series	4 (plus 1 celebrity series)
No.  of episodes	15 (Series 1) 18 (Series 2) 18 (Series 3) 17 (Series 4) TBA (Series 5)
Production
Producer(s)	FremantleMedia (as talkbackTHAMES), SYCOtv, Channel Television
Running time	60 – 120 minutes
Broadcast
Original channel	ITV1 (The X Factor) ITV2 (The Xtra Factor)
Original run	4 September 2004 – (renewed until December 2010)[1]
External links
Official website

For versions in other countries, see The X Factor (TV series). Series 1 of UK TV talent show The X Factor was broadcast from 4 September to 11 December 2004. The second UK series of The X Factor ran from 20 August to 17 December 2005. The third UK series of The X Factor was broadcast on the ITV network in the United Kingdom and TV3 in the Republic of Ireland The fourth UK series of The X Factor was broadcast on ITV in autumn 2007 The fifth UK series of The X Factor is currently being broadcast on ITV. FremantleMedia (previously known as All American Television, LBS Communications, and Pearson Television) is the content Talkback Thames is a British television production company a division of FremantleMedia (part of the RTL Group) Syco is a company founded by record executive and music producer Simon Cowell in 2002 Channel Television is a British television station which has served as an Independent Television (ITV contractor to the Channel Islands since 1962 This article deals with the ITV1 brand name as it is broadcast at present ITV2 is a 24 hour a day Free-to-air entertainment Television channel in the United Kingdom owned by ITV Digital Channels Ltd, a division of Events 476 - Romulus Augustus, last emperor of the Western Roman Empire, is deposed when Odoacer proclaims himself "MMIV" redirects here For the Modest Mouse album see " Baron von Bullshit Rides Again " For the original UK version see The X Factor (UK

The X Factor is a British television music talent show contested by aspiring pop singers drawn from public auditions. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom, the UK or Britain,is a Sovereign state located Television ( TV) is a widely used Telecommunication medium for sending ( Broadcasting) and receiving moving Images, either monochromatic Music is an Art form in which the medium is Sound organized in Time. A talent show is a live performance spectacle (sometimes on television where contestants perform Acting, Singing, Dancing, Acrobatics, It is broadcast on Saturdays on the ITV Network in the UK and on TV3 in the Republic of Ireland, with spin-off "behind-the-scenes" shows The Xtra Factor and The X Factor 24/7 screened on ITV2 and TV3. Independent Television (generally known as ITV) is a public service network of British commercial television broadcasters set up under the Independent TV3 Ireland was the first independent Television channel in Ireland, entirely funded by revenue from advertising ITV2 is a 24 hour a day Free-to-air entertainment Television channel in the United Kingdom owned by ITV Digital Channels Ltd, a division of It is produced by FremantleMedia's talkbackTHAMES and Simon Cowell's production company SYCOtv. FremantleMedia (previously known as All American Television, LBS Communications, and Pearson Television) is the content Talkback Thames is a British television production company a division of FremantleMedia (part of the RTL Group) } Simon Phillip Cowell (born October 7 1959 is an English artist-and-repertoire ("A&R" executive and Television personality / producer Syco is a company founded by record executive and music producer Simon Cowell in 2002 The "X Factor" of the title refers to the undefinable "something" that makes for star quality.

The X Factor is the biggest television talent competition in Europe, with 200,000 auditioning^[2] for series 4. The prize is a £1,000,000 (sterling) recording contract (in addition to the publicity that appearance in the later stages of the show itself generates, not only for the winner but also for other highly ranked contestants). The Pound Sterling ( symbol £; ISO code: GBP) subdivided into 100 pence (singular penny) is the Currency The show has proved hugely popular with audiences, with the series 4 final attracting 12. 7 million viewers (approximately a 55% share). There have been four winners to date: Steve Brookstein, Shayne Ward, Leona Lewis and Leon Jackson respectively. Stephen "Steve" Desmond Brookstein (born 10 November 1968) is a British jazz and soul singer who rose to fame in the United Kingdom after becoming Shayne Thomas Ward (born October 16, 1984) is an English pop singer who rose to prominence in the United Kingdom and Ireland Leona Louise Lewis (b 3 April 1985 is an English pop and R&B singer-songwriter and the winner of the third series of the United Kingdom television Leon Jackson (born 29 December 1988 is a Scottish Singer who won the fourth series of the British Television Talent show The winner's first single is usually released around the Christmas season, in an effort to become the UK's Christmas number one single. Each year record companies compete for the Christmas number one single spot on the British charts. As of series 4, each winner's single has entered the UK Singles Chart at number one, three of them being number one at Christmas (see music releases by X Factor contestants). The UK Singles Chart is compiled by The Official UK Charts Company (OCC on behalf of the British record industry

The X Factor was devised as a replacement for the massively successful Pop Idol, which was put on indefinite hiatus after its second series, largely because Simon Cowell wished to launch a show that he owned the television rights to. Pop Idol was a British Television series which debuted on ITV on October 5 2001; the show was a talent contest to decide (The perceived similarity between the shows later became the subject of a legal dispute. For the original UK version see The X Factor (UK

Versions of The X Factor have also appeared in a number of other countries. For the original UK version see The X Factor (UK The show has become a major success throughout the world, most notably in Denmark, Spain and Colombia. The Kingdom of Denmark ( ˈd̥ænmɑɡ̊ (archaic ˈd̥anmɑːɡ̊ commonly known as Denmark, is a country in the Scandinavian region of northern Europe Spain () or the Kingdom of Spain (Reino de España is a country located mostly in southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula. Colombia (kəˈlʌmbɪə officially the Republic of Colombia () is a country in northwestern South America. Creator Simon Cowell stated on the first episode of Series 4 that "this is the biggest singing competition in Europe. The fourth UK series of The X Factor was broadcast on ITV in autumn 2007 "

Auditions for Series 5 began in May 2008. The fifth UK series of The X Factor is currently being broadcast on ITV.

Contents 1 Series 2 Format 2.1 Auditions 2.2 Bootcamp and visits to judges' houses 2.3 Live shows 2.4 Post X Factor 3 Judges and presenters 3.1 Judges' categories 4 Ratings and awards 5 The Republic of Ireland 6 The Xtra Factor 7 The X Factor Live 8 The X Factor: Battle of the Stars 9 Controversy and criticism 9.1 Judges 9.2 Contestants 9.3 Auditions 9.4 Accusations of staging 9.5 Legal row 9.6 Voting irregularities 9.7 Product placement 10 Music releases by X Factor contestants 10.1 Singles 10.2 Albums 11 Merchandise 12 References 13 External links

Series

For detailed information see the Series 1, Series 2, Series 3, Series 4 and Series 5 articles. Series 1 of UK TV talent show The X Factor was broadcast from 4 September to 11 December 2004. The second UK series of The X Factor ran from 20 August to 17 December 2005. The third UK series of The X Factor was broadcast on the ITV network in the United Kingdom and TV3 in the Republic of Ireland The fourth UK series of The X Factor was broadcast on ITV in autumn 2007 The fifth UK series of The X Factor is currently being broadcast on ITV.

The first series of The X Factor began in September 2004 and ran to December 2004. It was hugely popular and a second series ran from August to December 2005 . A celebrity special edition The X Factor: Battle of the Stars was shown from May to June 2006. For versions in other countries see The X Factor (TV series. The X Factor is a British Television The third series, sponsored by mobile phone manufacturer Nokia, aired from 19 August 2006 and concluded on 16 December 2006. Nokia Corporation (pronunciation /'nɔkiɑ/),,) is a Finnish multinational Communications Corporation, headquartered Events 43 BC - Octavian, later known as Augustus compels the Roman Senate to elect him Consul. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 755 - An Lushan revolts against Chancellor Yang Guozhong at Fanyang, initiating the An Shi Rebellion Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. The X Factor producers and creator/judge Simon Cowell subsequently cancelled the show's contract with Nokia, and on June 19, 2007 it was confirmed that mobile phone retailer and ex-Big Brother sponsor The Carphone Warehouse would sponsor Series 4. Events 1179 - The Norwegian Battle of Kalvskinnet outside Nidaros. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. The Carphone Warehouse Group PLC ( known as The Carphone Warehouse, claim to be Europe 's largest independent Mobile phone retailer with over 1700 Series 4 began broadcasting on 18 August 2007^[3] and the show has been given another three year contract with ITV, so should run at least until series 7 in 2010. Events 293 BC - The oldest known Roman temple to Venus is founded starting the institution of Vinalia Rustica. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century.

Format

The X Factor

Judges Simon Cowell (Series 1–) Dannii Minogue (Series 4–) Louis Walsh (Series 1–) Cheryl Cole (Series 5–) Presenters Dermot O'Leary (ITV1, series 4–) Holly Willoughby (ITV2, series 5–) Voice-overs Peter Dickson (2004–present) Enn Reitel (2004–present)

The show is primarily concerned with identifying singing talent, though appearance, personality, stage presence and dance routines are also an important element of many performances. } Simon Phillip Cowell (born October 7 1959 is an English artist-and-repertoire ("A&R" executive and Television personality / producer Danielle Jane Minogue (born 20 October 1971 known as Dannii, is an Australian singer songwriter Television personality and occasional actress, Michael Louis Vincent (born 5 August 1952 in Kiltimagh, County Mayo) better known as Louis Walsh, is an Irish Music manager, and Cheryl Ann Cole (née Tweedy; born 30 June 1983 is an English Singer, and member of the band Girls Aloud. Seán Dermot Fintan O'Leary Jr (born 24 May, 1973 in Colchester, England) better known as Dermot O'Leary, is an British Holly Marie Willoughby (born 10 February 1981 in Brighton) is an English Television presenter, best known for the ITV1 Peter Dickson is a British radio presenter television announcer and voice over artist who rose to prominence in the 1990s Enn Reitel (born 21 June 1950) is a Scottish Actor and Impressionist who specialises in voice work. Some acts also accompany themselves on guitar or piano, though almost always over a backing track. The single most important attribute that the judges are seeking, however, is the ability to appeal to a mass market of pop fans.

For series 1–3 the competition was split into three categories: solo singers aged 16–24, solo singers aged 25 and over, and vocal groups (including duos). In series 4, the age limit was lowered from 16 to 14, creating a 14–24 age group. This was split into separate male and female sections,^[4] making four categories in all: 14–24 males ("boys"), 14–24 females ("girls"), 25-and-overs, and groups.

There are four stages to The X Factor competition:

• Stage 1: Auditions
• Stage 2: Boot camp
• Stage 3: Visits to judges' houses
• Stage 4: Live shows (finals)

Auditions

A round of first auditions are held in front of producers months before the show is aired, either by application and appointment, or at "open" auditions that anyone can attend. These auditions, held at various venues around the UK, attract very large crowds. The auditions themselves are not televised, but shots of crowds waving and "judges' cars" arriving are filmed and later spliced in with the televised auditions shot later in the year. Contestants are told to remove winter clothing so that the crowd shots will be consistent with the summer scenes seen in the sequences filmed later. Selected candidates (approximately 140 per 9000) are then invited back to one or more further auditions in front of the producers, and, if successful, finally called back to audition in front of the judges.

A selection of the auditions in front of the judges – usually the best, the worst and the most bizarre (described by judge Louis Walsh as "the good, the bad and the ugly"^[5]) – are broadcast over the first few weeks of the show. Each act enters the audition room, often after waiting for hours, and delivers a stand-up unaccompanied performance of their chosen song to the judges. If a majority of the judges (two in series 1–3 or three in series 4) say "yes" then the act goes through to the next stage, otherwise the act is sent home. Much like Pop Idol, many acts face harsh criticism from the judges, especially from the controversial Simon Cowell. } Simon Phillip Cowell (born October 7 1959 is an English artist-and-repertoire ("A&R" executive and Television personality / producer

Over 50,000 people auditioned for series 1 of The X Factor, around 75,000 for series 2 and around 100,000 for series 3. The number of applicants for series 4 reached an all-time high with 200,000 people auditioning. ^[6][7][8][9] For series 5, so far over 182,000 people have auditioned.

Bootcamp and visits to judges' houses

The contestants selected at audition are further refined through a series of performances at "bootcamp" (held at a venue such as a country hotel), and then at the "judges' houses", until a small number eventually progress to the live finals (nine in series 1 and twelve in series 2–4). Judge Louis Walsh revealed in November 2007 that the houses the contestants visit do not actually belong to the judges, but are rented for the purpose. ^[10]

During these stages, each of the judges is allocated a category to mentor. In early series this allocation took place after completion of the auditions and prior to bootcamp, but in series 4 all four judges worked together at the bootcamp. They collectively chose 24 acts (6 from each category) for the next round, and only then found out which category they are to mentor. The judges then disbanded for the "visits to the judges' houses" round, where their six acts were reduced to three for the live shows. ^[11][12]

Live shows

The finals consist of a series of two live shows each Saturday evening, usually with one act eliminated each week. In the first few weeks of the finals, each act performs once in the first show in front of an auditorium audience and the judges. Acts usually sing over a pre-recorded backing track, though sometimes live musicians, backing singers and/or dancers are featured.

In the first two series acts usually chose a cover of a pop standard or contemporary hit. In the third series an innovation was introduced whereby each live show had a different theme (for example, Motown), thus increasing the show's similarity to the Pop Idol format. "Motown" redirects here For the city see Detroit Michigan. Pop Idol was a British Television series which debuted on ITV on October 5 2001; the show was a talent contest to decide This format continued during the most recent fourth series. The contestants' songs are chosen according to the theme, and a celebrity guest connected to the theme is invited onto the show. Clips are shown of the guest conversing with the contestants at rehearsal, and the guest also performs in the later results show, immediately before the results are announced. (See the series 3 and series 4 articles for a full list of themes and guests. The third UK series of The X Factor was broadcast on the ITV network in the United Kingdom and TV3 in the Republic of Ireland The fourth UK series of The X Factor was broadcast on ITV in autumn 2007 ) In series 1, much was made of the idea that each performer/mentor combination was free to present the performance however they wanted, including the performer playing live instruments, or the addition of choirs, backing bands, and dancers. Future series placed much less emphasis on this element.

After each act has performed, the judges comment on their performance, usually focusing on vocal ability and stage presence. Once all the acts have appeared, the phone lines open and the viewing public vote on which act they want to keep.

In the results show, screened an hour or so later, the two acts polling the fewest votes are revealed. Both these acts perform their song again in a "final showdown", and the judges vote on which of the two to send home. Ties became possible with the introduction of a fourth judge in series 4. In the event of a tie the show goes to deadlock, and the act who came last in the public vote is sent home. The actual number of votes cast for each act is not revealed, nor even the order (this is presumably to maintain interest in the event that there might be a clear winner from an early stage). In series 3, a twist was introduced in one of the live shows where the act with the fewest votes was automatically eliminated, and the two with the next fewest votes performed in the "final showdown" as normal.

Once the number of contestants has been reduced to four (series 1) or five (series 2–4), the format changes. Each act performs twice in the first show, with the public vote opening after the first performance. The second show reveals which act polled the fewest votes, and they are automatically eliminated from the competition (the judges do not have a vote; their only role is to comment on the performances). In series 1 the acts also reprised one of their songs in the second show.

This continues until only two (series 1 and 3) or three (series 2 and 4) acts remain. These acts go on to appear in the grand final which decides the overall winner by public vote. In past series some of the failed auditionees from the early rounds have also returned for a special appearance in the final.

Post X Factor

From Series 1-3 the premise of The X Factor was that the winner would be managed in the industry by their mentor on the show. With Cowell, a music executive, and managers, Osbourne and Walsh, as judges, whichever of the three that won would be qualified to manage their act after winning the show. With the appointment of singer, Dannii Minogue, as a judge in Series 4 the same principle could not apply. Minogue winning Series 4 with Leon Jackson revealed that none of the judges is entitled to manage Minogue's act(s) and that a new, outside manager is appointed in the case of her act winning the show. Leon Jackson (born 29 December 1988 is a Scottish Singer who won the fourth series of the British Television Talent show It is still believed that if Cowell or Walsh wins a future series, they are entitled to manage their act in the industry.

From Series 1-2 the winner's debut album would be released a few months after winning the show. The album would contain some new material but would consist largely of cover versions of previously recorded songs. In Popular music, a cover version, or simply cover, is a new rendition ( Performance or Recording) of a previously recorded commercially released This format changed with Series 3 winner, Leona Lewis. Leona Louise Lewis (b 3 April 1985 is an English pop and R&B singer-songwriter and the winner of the third series of the United Kingdom television Mentor to her on the show (and newly-appointed manager), Simon Cowell, said: "We could have gone into the studio for a month, made the record quick, and thrown it out. It would have been the wrong thing to do. "^[13] which marked the end of the "cover version format" for future series winners. The success of Lewis' debut album "Spirit" ensured that the debut albums of future series winners (with Jackson as an example) would consist more of new material than of cover versions. Spirit is the debut album by Leona Lewis, released by Syco Music in November 2007 (see 2007 in music) in the British Isles and worldwide

Judges and presenters

From series 1 to 3, The X Factor judges were Simon Cowell, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh. } Simon Phillip Cowell (born October 7 1959 is an English artist-and-repertoire ("A&R" executive and Television personality / producer Sharon Rachel Osbourne (née Levy, previously Arden; born 9 October 1952) is an English Music manager and promoter Michael Louis Vincent (born 5 August 1952 in Kiltimagh, County Mayo) better known as Louis Walsh, is an Irish Music manager, and

After some months of speculation and provisional lineup changes (see series 4 article), the series 4 judges were finally confirmed in June 2007 as Simon Cowell, Sharon Osbourne, Louis Walsh and Dannii Minogue, with Brian Friedman taking a role as performance coach and choreographer. The fourth UK series of The X Factor was broadcast on ITV in autumn 2007 } Simon Phillip Cowell (born October 7 1959 is an English artist-and-repertoire ("A&R" executive and Television personality / producer Sharon Rachel Osbourne (née Levy, previously Arden; born 9 October 1952) is an English Music manager and promoter Michael Louis Vincent (born 5 August 1952 in Kiltimagh, County Mayo) better known as Louis Walsh, is an Irish Music manager, and Danielle Jane Minogue (born 20 October 1971 known as Dannii, is an Australian singer songwriter Television personality and occasional actress, Brian Alexa Friedman (also known as "B Free" or "Be Free") born in Scottsdale Arizona on May 28, 1977 is a popular See also, Choreography (literally "dance-writing" from the Greek words "χορεία" (circular dance see chorea) and "γραφή" Judge Sharon Osbourne said that she would not return for series 5 if the series 4 winner did not come from her category (which turned out to be the case). ^[14] On February 22, 2008 it was reported that Osbourne "allegedly" will not return for series 5 because of an ongoing feud with Minogue. Events 1495 - King Charles VIII of France enters Naples to claim the city's throne 2008 ( MMVIII) is the current year in accordance with the Gregorian calendar, a Leap year that started on Tuesday of the Common ^[15] A further report on February 24, 2008 claimed, via an unnamed source, that Osbourne would only stay if Simon Cowell increased her salary. Events 303 - Galerius, Roman Emperor, publishes his edict that begins the persecution of Christians in his portion of the 2008 ( MMVIII) is the current year in accordance with the Gregorian calendar, a Leap year that started on Tuesday of the Common ^[16] On 6 June 2008 (six days before filming for series 5 was due to begin), ITV confirmed that Osbourne had left the show. Events 1508 - Maximilian I Holy Roman Emperor, is defeated in Friulia by Venetian forces; he is forced to sign a three-year 2008 ( MMVIII) is the current year in accordance with the Gregorian calendar, a Leap year that started on Tuesday of the Common The fifth UK series of The X Factor is currently being broadcast on ITV. ^[17] Four days later, on 10 June 2008, ITV confirmed that Girls Aloud singer Cheryl Cole was the new judge for series 5, and the replacement for Sharon Osbourne. Events 1190 - Third Crusade: Frederick I Barbarossa drowns in the Sally River while leading an army to Jerusalem 2008 ( MMVIII) is the current year in accordance with the Gregorian calendar, a Leap year that started on Tuesday of the Common Girls Aloud are a British Girl group created by ITV1 Talent show Popstars The Rivals in 2002 Cheryl Ann Cole (née Tweedy; born 30 June 1983 is an English Singer, and member of the band Girls Aloud. The fifth UK series of The X Factor is currently being broadcast on ITV. ^[18][19]

The show was hosted up to series 3 by Kate Thornton. Kate Louise Thornton (born 7 February 1973) is an English journalist and television presenter best known in the UK as the first presenter of Thornton was replaced for series 4 by Dermot O'Leary who signed a contract worth £1 million to present two series of the programme on ITV. Seán Dermot Fintan O'Leary Jr (born 24 May, 1973 in Colchester, England) better known as Dermot O'Leary, is an British Independent Television (generally known as ITV) is a public service network of British commercial television broadcasters set up under the Independent However, O'Leary was not forced to leave the Big Brother franchise and continued to present Big Brother sister shows during summer 2007. Big Brother is a Reality television series broadcast in the United Kingdom and However, Dermot has announced that Big Brother: Celebrity Hijack will be his last Big Brother hosting role so he can focus on presenting The X Factor. Big Brother

Voice-overs are provided by Peter Dickson and Enn Reitel. Peter Dickson is a British radio presenter television announcer and voice over artist who rose to prominence in the 1990s Enn Reitel (born 21 June 1950) is a Scottish Actor and Impressionist who specialises in voice work.

For information about The Xtra Factor presenters, see The Xtra Factor below.

Judges' categories

Judge	Series 1	Series 2	Series 3	Series 4	Series 5
Simon Cowell	25 and overs	Groups	16-24s	Groups	TBA
Sharon Osbourne	16-24s	25 and overs	25 and overs	Girls	–
Louis Walsh	Groups	16-24s	Groups	25 and overs	TBA
Dannii Minogue	–	–	–	Boys	TBA
Cheryl Cole	–	–	–	–	TBA

     The judge and category that won the competition

Ratings and awards

Viewing figures of around ten million were claimed for series 2 and 4. Over three million public votes were cast in the series 2 semi-final, and six million in the first part of the final. The series 3 final attracted eight million votes and 12. 6 million viewers. ^[20]

At the British Comedy Awards 2005, The X Factor beat Friday Night with Jonathan Ross and Ant & Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway to take the award for Best Comedy Entertainment Programme (rather bizarrely, since it is not intended as comedy). Date December 14, 2005 Location London Studios London Host Jonathan Ross Broadcaster ITV Friday Night with Jonathan Ross is a Chat show presented by Jonathan Ross. Saturday Night Takeaway was a Variety show shown in the UK on Saturday evenings on ITV, presented and executively produced by Ant & Dec The award was presented by Ricky Gervais. Ricky Dene Gervais (dʒɜːˈveɪz born 25 June 1961 is an English Actor, Comedian, Writer, director, Producer and former

The Republic of Ireland

The "UK" version of The X Factor effectively includes the Republic of Ireland on an equal footing, and viewers in the Republic have been able to vote in all series to date via SMS or telephone. Ireland ( Irish: Éire, ˈeːrʲə is a country in north-western Europe. Short Message Service ( SMS) is a Communications protocol allowing the interchange of short text messages between mobile telephone devices. The first series was available to Irish viewers only through the Northern Ireland channel UTV, but subsequent series have been shown on Irish terrestrial TV station TV3. Northern Ireland (Tuaisceart Éireann Ulster Scots: Norlin Airlann) is a Country within the United Kingdom, lying in the northeast of For other uses of the UTV acronym see UTV (disambiguation UTV (formerly Ulster Television) is a Television channel based TV3 Ireland was the first independent Television channel in Ireland, entirely funded by revenue from advertising The show has held auditions in Ballsbridge, Dublin and Belfast for all series, and also in other Irish cities over past seasons. Ballsbridge ( Droichead na Dothra in Irish) is a suburb of Dublin, Ireland, named for the bridge spanning the River Dodder on Dublin (ˈdʌblɨn/ /ˈdʊblɨn or /ˈdʊbəlɪn/, bˠalʲə aːha klʲiəh or cliə(ɸ is both the largest city and capital of Ireland. Belfast ( is the capital city of Northern Ireland and the seat of government in Northern Ireland. Irish acts reached the finals in both series 1 (Tabby and Roberta) and series 2 (The Conway Sisters).

The Xtra Factor

The Xtra Factor is a companion show that airs on digital channel ITV2 on Saturday nights. ITV2 is a 24 hour a day Free-to-air entertainment Television channel in the United Kingdom owned by ITV Digital Channels Ltd, a division of It features behind-the-scenes footage of The X Factor and shows the emotional responses of the contestants after the judges comment on their performances.

Cameras follow the finalists during their day, and some of the footage is aired in a spin-off show The Xtra Factor: The Aftermath, which is broadcast in the middle of the week on ITV2. The Xtra Factor: Xcess All Areas is a live show in which there are interviews, games and trips around the contestants' homes. The show also lets viewers know which songs the contestants will be singing in the next live show.

The Xtra Factor was hosted up to series 3 by Ben Shephard. Ben Shephard (born 11 December 1974 in Epping is an English Television presenter. The voiceover on series 1 to 3 was Peter Dickson. Peter Dickson is a British radio presenter television announcer and voice over artist who rose to prominence in the 1990s Shephard did not return for series 4 after being upset at not getting the main ITV presenting job,^[21][22] and Fearne Cotton took over as host, for the fourth series only, leaving the show to concentrate on her career in the US. Fearne Cotton (born 3 September 1981 is an English Presenter known for presenting a number of popular TV programmes such as Top of the Pops ^[23][24] Allegations of a falling-out with Simon Cowell were also reported. ^[25] For Series 5, Cotton was replaced by presenter and close friend, Holly Willoughby. Holly Marie Willoughby (born 10 February 1981 in Brighton) is an English Television presenter, best known for the ITV1 ^[26][27][28]

The X Factor Live

The X Factor Live is a live show that tours the UK in the new year, following the conclusion of the TV series. It features an array of finalists and other memorable contestants from the most recent X Factor season.

The X Factor: Battle of the Stars

Main article and detailed results: The X Factor: Battle of the Stars

The X Factor: Battle of the Stars was a celebrity special edition of The X Factor, which screened on ITV, starting on 29 May 2006 and lasting for eight consecutive nights. The X Factor Battle of the Stars was a UK celebrity special edition of The X Factor, which screened on ITV starting on 29 May 2006 Events 363 - Roman Emperor Julian defeats the Sassanid army in the Battle of Ctesiphon, under the walls of the Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Pop Idol was meant to air in its place as Celebrity Pop Idol but was stopped shortly before transmission, when ITV picked The X Factor over it. Pop Idol was a British Television series which debuted on ITV on October 5 2001; the show was a talent contest to decide

Nine celebrity acts participated, singing live in front of the nation and facing the judges of the previous The X Factor series, Simon Cowell, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh. Voting revenues were donated to the celebrities' chosen charities.

The contestants were Michelle Marsh, Nikki Sanderson, Matt Stevens, Lucy Benjamin, Gillian McKeith, Chris Moyles, Paul Daniels and Debbie McGee, James Hewitt and Rebecca Loos, and "The Chefs", a quartet of celebrity chefs comprising Jean-Christophe Novelli, Aldo Zilli, Paul Rankin and Ross Burden. Michelle Marsh (born 30 September 1982 is an English Glamour model noted for her large natural Breasts. Nikki Ann Sanderson (born 28 March 1984 in Blackpool, Lancashire) is an English actress and Glamour model who is best known for playing Matthew Stevens (born 1 October 1982 in Durban, South Africa) is a Rugby union player who plays at for Bath and Lucy Benjamin (born 25 June 1970) is an English Actress. Career Born Lucy Jane Baker in Reading, Gillian McKeith (born 1959 is a Nutritionist, television presenter and writer from Scotland Christopher Moyles (born 22 February 1974 is an English broadcaster from Leeds. Paul Daniels (born Newton Edward Daniels on 6 April 1938 is a British magician and television performer Debbie McGee (born 31 October 1958 is a British television radio and stage performer who is best known as the wife and assistant of magician Paul Daniels For other people of this name see James Hewitt (disambiguation. Rebecca Loos (born on 19 June 1977 in Madrid, Spain) is a Dutch Glamour model and aspiring Singer who was Jean-Christophe Novelli (born 22 February 1961) is a French Celebrity chef. Aldo Zilli (born 26 January 1956 is an Italian -born celebrity chef who specialises in Italian cuisine. Paul Rankin (born 1 October 1959) is a celebrity chef from Ballywalter, County Down, Northern Ireland. Ross Burden (born 13 December 1966) is a Celebrity chef from New Zealand.

It was reported on 26 August 2006 that Simon Cowell had axed the show, describing it as "pointless" and adding "we are never going to do it again". Events 1071 - Battle of Manzikert: The Seljuk Turks defeat the Byzantine Army at Manzikert. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ^[29]

Controversy and criticism

Judges

In Series 1, tabloid reports claimed that the show was fixed, after Louis Walsh allegedly cheated and tried to help a band that he had previously managed to get through to the final stages. Series 1 of UK TV talent show The X Factor was broadcast from 4 September to 11 December 2004. A tabloid is a Newspaper industry term which refers to a smaller newspaper format per spread to a weekly or semi-weekly alternative newspaper that focuses on local-interest Footage of Simon Cowell and Sharon Osbourne coaching contestants to argue back to the judges was also being sold over the Internet to the highest bidder. The Internet is a global system of interconnected Computer networks ^[30]

Shortly before the first ever live show, Sharon Osbourne claimed that Simon Cowell had "rigged" the show by editing footage to make his contestants more appealing to viewers. ^[31]

The show received a record number of complaints in December 2004, after Sharon Osbourne made a verbal attack on Steve Brookstein in the Series 1 finale. ^[32] As a result, her future on the show was uncertain, but she later made an apology^[33] and was allowed to return. ^[34]

Sharon and Louis were criticised in Series 2 for tactical voting, due to an alleged pact against Simon Cowell carried forward from the first series. The second UK series of The X Factor ran from 20 August to 17 December 2005. Series 1 of UK TV talent show The X Factor was broadcast from 4 September to 11 December 2004. ^[35] Louis was alleged to have told Chenai Zinyuku in the second live show of the second series that she was safe, because "Sharon owed him one" from the previous show. The second UK series of The X Factor ran from 20 August to 17 December 2005. The second UK series of The X Factor ran from 20 August to 17 December 2005. Later in the same series Louis was heavily criticised for casting the deciding vote to keep Irish group The Conway Sisters in the show at the expense of the popular Maria Lawson, especially after it was revealed that he had worked with the Conways personally prior to the show. The Conway Sisters were a semi-professional singing group from County Sligo, Ireland who have achieved a measure of fame through their appearances on The Maria Lawson, (born 24 May 1975) is an English singer who appeared on The X Factor. ^[36] The Conway Sisters had supported Westlife, a band managed by Louis, on one of their tours. Westlife is an Irish pop band that was formed on 3 July 1998 They were signed on by Simon Cowell and are currently managed by Louis Walsh. On one occasion, judge Louis Walsh announced after the live Saturday show that he would quit the series, claiming that the other two judges had been 'bullying' him. Michael Louis Vincent (born 5 August 1952 in Kiltimagh, County Mayo) better known as Louis Walsh, is an Irish Music manager, and ^[37] This included various verbal assaults on Louis, and Sharon Osbourne even throwing water over him, live on air. Sharon Rachel Osbourne (née Levy, previously Arden; born 9 October 1952) is an English Music manager and promoter Louis' announcement was claimed by many to be a publicity stunt, especially when he decided to return to the show the following Saturday night. ^[38]

Contestants

In Series 3, one boyband, called Avenue, were accused of cheating. The third UK series of The X Factor was broadcast on the ITV network in the United Kingdom and TV3 in the Republic of Ireland It emerged that they already had a management deal with music mogul Ashley Tabor, who reportedly hoped to use the show in order to publicise the boys. ^[39] It was also revealed that one of the members, Jamie Tinker, once had a recording contract with Simon Cowell's recording company SonyBMG, though this was judged not to be against the rules of the show. ^[40] The boys later lost their places in the final 12,^[41] though they insisted that they were not cheats. ^[42]

Also in Series 3, a video emerged of contestant Ray Quinn performing with disqualified boyband Avenue, during auditions to form the group. The third UK series of The X Factor was broadcast on the ITV network in the United Kingdom and TV3 in the Republic of Ireland Raymond Arthur Quinn (born 25 August 1988 in Liverpool, Merseyside) is an English Actor,singer and dancer third of three It was not suggested that there was any controversy about Quinn's inclusion in the contest following this story.

During Series 4 the producers discovered that Sisi Jghalef, a member of six-piece girl group Hope, had a criminal conviction in contravention of the show's rules. The fourth UK series of The X Factor was broadcast on ITV in autumn 2007 Sisi was asked to leave, and Hope, who had already been selected as finalists, continued as a five-piece.

Later in Series 4, 15-year-old Emily Nakanda pulled out of the show after being discovered in a "happy slapping" video, in which she apparently attacks another girl. The fourth UK series of The X Factor was broadcast on ITV in autumn 2007 Happy slapping is a fad in which someone attacks an unsuspecting victim while an accomplice records the assault (commonly with a Camera phone or a Smartphone Both her mentor, Sharon Osbourne and her family were said to be upset with her behaviour. She was given the option of leaving of her own accord or being forced out, and she chose to withdraw. ^[43][44]

The lowering of the minimum contestant age from 16 to 14 in series 4 attracted criticism from some quarters. Groups such as the Family and Parenting Institute expressed concern that children of this age might be not be sufficiently emotionally robust to cope with the experience. ^[45]

Auditions

There is anecdotal evidence from blogs and discussion forums that some of the first-round X-Factor audition sessions held in front of the producers have been poorly organised, with auditionees forced to wait for many hours outside in the cold with few facilities and little information about when they will be seen. Attendees have also complained about queue-jumping, exorbitantly priced refreshments, the very short period of audition time that they are given, and the fact that selection decisions are left in the hands of unqualified production staff. It has been alleged that some of the "open" audition events are simply an opportunity for producers to get shots of large crowds, rather than a serious attempt to find talented contestants. ^[46]

It is claimed that some talentless contestants — described by one journalist as "sad no-hopers picked so the judges can mock them" — are deliberately sent forward to the televised audition rounds simply to provide entertainment value. ^[47]

Accusations of staging

There have been suggestions that much of the controversy surrounding the show, such as the bickering between the judges, is deliberately orchestrated to attract publicity, and that some supposedly "spontaneous" scenes are rehearsed or refilmed. ^[48][49][50]

Legal row

Simon Fuller, the creator of Pop Idol, claimed that the format of The X Factor was copied from his own show, and, through his company 19 TV, filed a lawsuit against The X Factor producers FremantleMedia, Simon Cowell and Cowell's companies Simco and Syco. Simon Fuller (born 17 May 1960 in Hastings, England) is one of the most successful artist managers of all time and is globally recognised for Pop Idol was a British Television series which debuted on ITV on October 5 2001; the show was a talent contest to decide ^[51] A High Court hearing began in London, England in November 2005, and the outcome was awaited with interest by media lawyers for its potential effect on the legal situation regarding the copyrighting of formats. However, in the event the hearing was quickly adjourned and an out-of-court settlement was reached at the end of the month. ^[52]

Voting irregularities

After Series 3, it was discovered that ITV had overcharged viewers who voted via interactive television by a total of approximately £200,000. The third UK series of The X Factor was broadcast on the ITV network in the United Kingdom and TV3 in the Republic of Ireland ITV said a data inputting error was to blame and that they would refund anybody affected on production of a telephone bill. They also indicated that they would make a £200,000 donation to Childline. ChildLine is a Charity and free 24 hour counselling service for young people provided by The NSPCC. ^[53] This error, and those by other broadcasters, eventually led to a temporary suspension of all ITV's phone-in services on 5 March pending an audit and meeting with ICSTIS. Events 363 - Roman Emperor Julian moves from Antioch with an army of 90000 to attack the Sassanid Empire, in a PhonepayPlus (formerly known as ICSTIS) is the Regulatory body for all premium rate phone-paid services in the United Kingdom. The suspension of phone-in programming also saw ITV Play "temporarily" taken off air. ITV Play was the brand name used for phone-in shows on British television network ITV until December 2007 ITV Play never came back, and was replaced on Freeview by ITV2+1.

In October 2007, it emerged that "serious technical issues" had resulted in viewer votes being ignored in the series two final, though it was found that the problems did not "alter the actual outcome" of the vote. October events and holidays Children's Book Week ( England) - First Week of October National Day ( China People's Republic Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ^[54] ITV put in place a scheme which allowed affected consumers to be offered refunds. ^[55]

Following the result of the series 4 final, won by Leon Jackson, media watchdog Ofcom received a number of complaints from viewers who said that they were unable to register their vote for Rhydian Roberts, despite trying up to ten times. Leon Jackson (born 29 December 1988 is a Scottish Singer who won the fourth series of the British Television Talent show The Office of Communications (Y Swyddfa Gyfathrebiadau or as it is more often known Ofcom is the independent regulator and competition authority for the Communication Rhydian Roberts (born 14 February 1983) is a Welsh Singer best known for his appearance on the fourth series of the British ^[56] After complaints topped 1,100, ITV issued a statement which assured viewers that "Leon won The X Factor fair and square" and did so with a winning margin of 10%. ^[57] A subsequent Ofcom investigation found that Roberts had not been unfairly disadvantaged. ^[58]

Product placement

In 2007, media watchdog Ofcom upheld a complaint that The Xtra Factor had inappropriately featured close-up shots of the products of then sponsor Nokia. The Office of Communications (Y Swyddfa Gyfathrebiadau or as it is more often known Ofcom is the independent regulator and competition authority for the Communication ^[59]

Music releases by X Factor contestants

Singles

Several singles released by contestants in The X Factor have reached the top twenty in the UK Singles Chart, six of them reaching number one. The UK Singles Chart is compiled by The Official UK Charts Company (OCC on behalf of the British record industry Following the release of Leona Lewis' single "Bleeding Love" in October 2007 (UK)/March 2008 (US), the series 3 winner became the most successful contestant from the show, with the song reaching the number one spot in 28 countries around the world, including on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US. Leona Louise Lewis (b 3 April 1985 is an English pop and R&B singer-songwriter and the winner of the third series of the United Kingdom television " Bleeding Love " is a pop ballad written by Ryan Tedder of OneRepublic and Jesse McCartney and produced by Tedder for British The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom, the UK or Britain,is a Sovereign state located The United States of America —commonly referred to as the Nevertheless, other contestants/winners have also had chart success, but only winners Shayne Ward and Leona Lewis have achieved success (arguably) on an international scale. Shayne Thomas Ward (born October 16, 1984) is an English pop singer who rose to prominence in the United Kingdom and Ireland

Artist	Title	Year	Peak position	UK sales	Certification
Steve Brookstein	"Against All Odds"	2005	1	100,000	-
G4	"Bohemian Rhapsody"	2005	9	70,000	-
Shayne Ward	"That's My Goal"	2005	1	1,300,000	Platinum[60]
Chico Slimani	"It's Chico Time"	2006	1		-
Shayne Ward	"No Promises"	2006	2	200,000	-
Shayne Ward	"Stand by Me"	2006	14	25,000	-
Andy Abraham	"December Brings Me Back to You"	2006	18	30,000	-
Maria Lawson	"Sleepwalking"	2006	20	20,000	-
Leona Lewis	"A Moment Like This"	2006	1	825,000	Platinum[61]
Shayne Ward	"No U Hang Up" / "If That's OK with You"	2007	2	150,000
Leona Lewis	"Bleeding Love"	2007	1	880,000	Platinum[62]
Shayne Ward	"Breathless"	2007	6	102,000
Leon Jackson	"When You Believe"	2007	1	460,000
Leona Lewis	"Better in Time" / "Footprints In The Sand"	2008	2	190,000
Andy Abraham	"Even If"	2008	67
Shayne Ward	"U Got Me So"	2008	TBA	TBA
Same Difference	"Breaking Free"	2008	TBA	TBA
Niki Evans	"Love Me No More"	2008	TBA	TBA
Leona Lewis	"Forgive Me"	2008	TBA	TBA

Three winners in row have achieved the Christmas number one spot. Stephen "Steve" Desmond Brookstein (born 10 November 1968) is a British jazz and soul singer who rose to fame in the United Kingdom after becoming " Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now " is a song originally written and recorded by British singer Phil Collins. G4 were a successful vocal troupe made famous by ITV 's The X Factor television programme in 2004 in which they came second is a Song written by Freddie Mercury and originally recorded by the band Queen for their 1975 album ''A Night at the Opera''. Shayne Thomas Ward (born October 16, 1984) is an English pop singer who rose to prominence in the United Kingdom and Ireland " That's My Goal " is a popular song released as the first single by the second United Kingdom X Factor winner Shayne Ward. Yousseph Slimani (born April 2, 1971) known as Chico, is a British pop singer of Moroccan descent who rose to prominence in the " It's Chico Time " is the first single by X Factor contestant Chico. Shayne Thomas Ward (born October 16, 1984) is an English pop singer who rose to prominence in the United Kingdom and Ireland Shayne Thomas Ward (born October 16, 1984) is an English pop singer who rose to prominence in the United Kingdom and Ireland " Stand by Me " is the third single from the second United Kingdom X Factor winner Shayne Ward. Andrew Abraham (born 17 July 1964, London) is an English Vocalist. Maria Lawson, (born 24 May 1975) is an English singer who appeared on The X Factor. " Sleepwalking " is the debut single from The X Factor series 2 contestant Maria Lawson. Leona Louise Lewis (b 3 April 1985 is an English pop and R&B singer-songwriter and the winner of the third series of the United Kingdom television " A Moment Like This " is a song by American singer Kelly Clarkson, released from her multi-platinum debut album Thankful. Shayne Thomas Ward (born October 16, 1984) is an English pop singer who rose to prominence in the United Kingdom and Ireland " No U Hang Up " is a song written by Arnthor Birgisson, Rami Yacoub and Savan Kotecha and performed by The X Factor " If That's OK with You " is a song written by Savan Kotecha, Arnthor Birgisson and Max Martin for The X Factor winner Leona Louise Lewis (b 3 April 1985 is an English pop and R&B singer-songwriter and the winner of the third series of the United Kingdom television " Bleeding Love " is a pop ballad written by Ryan Tedder of OneRepublic and Jesse McCartney and produced by Tedder for British Shayne Thomas Ward (born October 16, 1984) is an English pop singer who rose to prominence in the United Kingdom and Ireland " Breathless " is a song by the second United Kingdom X Factor winner Shayne Ward. Leon Jackson (born 29 December 1988 is a Scottish Singer who won the fourth series of the British Television Talent show " When You Believe " is an Academy Award -winning song composed by Stephen Schwartz for the DreamWorks animated feature The Prince Leona Louise Lewis (b 3 April 1985 is an English pop and R&B singer-songwriter and the winner of the third series of the United Kingdom television " Better In Time " is a song written by J R Rotem and Andrea Martin and produced by Rotem for Leona Lewis 's debut album Spirit " Footprints in the Sand " is a song written by Richard Page, Per Magnusson, David Kreuger and Simon Cowell and produced by Andrew Abraham (born 17 July 1964, London) is an English Vocalist. " Even If " sung by Andy Abraham, was the United Kingdom 's entry for the Eurovision Song Contest 2008, Belgrade, Serbia. Shayne Thomas Ward (born October 16, 1984) is an English pop singer who rose to prominence in the United Kingdom and Ireland This article is for the British pop duo For other uses see Same Difference (disambiguation Same Difference are " Breaking Free " is a song from the Disney Channel Original Movie High School Musical. Niki Evans (born 13 December 1972) is an English Singer. She is most famous for coming fourth in the fourth series of the popular Leona Louise Lewis (b 3 April 1985 is an English pop and R&B singer-songwriter and the winner of the third series of the United Kingdom television These being "That's My Goal", "A Moment Like This" and "When You Believe".

Albums

This first list only includes contestants with at least one certified album, and the totals do not include pre-X-Factor recordings.

Gold, Platinum, and/or Multi-Platinum (UK Sales Only)

	Former Contestant Total Sales	Debut Album	Second Album	Third Album
1.	Leona Lewis (Season 3, Winner) 2,000,000	Spirit (November 9, 2007) Sony BMG 2,000,000 6x Platinum[63] Peak: #1
2. Leona Louise Lewis (b 3 April 1985 is an English pop and R&B singer-songwriter and the winner of the third series of the United Kingdom television Spirit is the debut album by Leona Lewis, released by Syco Music in November 2007 (see 2007 in music) in the British Isles and worldwide Events 694 - Egica, a king of the Visigoths of Hispania, accuses Jews of aiding Muslims sentencing all Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century.	G4 (Season 1, Runner-Up) 1,500,000	G4 (February 28, 2005) Sony BMG 800,000 2x Platinum[64] Peak: #1	G4 & Friends (November 28, 2005) Sony BMG 400,000 Platinum[65] Peak: #6	Act Three (November 27, 2006) Sony BMG 300,000 Platinum[66] Peak: #21
3. G4 were a successful vocal troupe made famous by ITV 's The X Factor television programme in 2004 in which they came second G4 is the self-titled debut album from the vocal group G4, released in 2005. Events 202 BC - coronation ceremony of Liu Bang as Emperor Gaozu of Han takes place initiating four centuries of the Han Dynasty 's rule Year 2005 ( MMV) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar of the Gregorian calendar. G4 and Friends is the second album released by X Factor group G4. For the town in Argentina, see 28 de Noviembre. Events Year 2005 ( MMV) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar of the Gregorian calendar. Act Three is the third and final album to be released by X Factor stars G4. Events 1095 - Pope Urban II declares the First Crusade at the Council of Clermont Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar.	Shayne Ward (Season 2, Winner) 945,000	Shayne Ward (April 17, 2006) Sony BMG 510,000 Platinum[67] Peak: #1	Breathless (November 26, 2007) Sony BMG 435,000 Platinum Peak: #2
4. Shayne Thomas Ward (born October 16, 1984) is an English pop singer who rose to prominence in the United Kingdom and Ireland Shayne Ward is the self-titled debut album from the second UK X Factor winner Shayne Ward. Events 69 - After the First Battle of Bedriacum, Vitellius becomes Roman Emperor. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Breathless is the second album by winner of The X Factor, Shayne Ward, released on November 26, 2007. Events 43 BC - The Second Triumvirate alliance of Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus ("Octavian" later "Caesar Augustus" Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century.	Journey South (Season 2, 3rd Place) 435,000	Journey South (March 20, 2005) Sony BMG 405,000 Platinum[68] Peak: #1	Home (October 22, 2007) Anca 30,000 N/A Peak: #43
5. Journey South are a musical duo originating from Middlesbrough, England, consisting of brothers Carl and Andy Pemberton Journey South is the eponymous debut album from ''The X Factor'' UK series 2 finalists Journey South. Events 1600 - The Linköping Bloodbath takes place on Maundy Thursday in Linköping, Sweden. Year 2005 ( MMV) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar of the Gregorian calendar. Home is the second album from ''The X Factor'' UK series 2 finalists Journey South. Events 202 BC - Hannibal Barca, leader of the Carthaginians, is defeated by the Roman legions under Scipio Africanus Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century.	Andy Abraham (Season 2, Runner-Up) 350,000	The Impossible Dream (March 20, 2006) Sony BMG 300,000 Platinum[69] Peak: #2	Soul Man (November 13, 2006) Sony BMG 50,000 N/A Peak: #19
6. Andrew Abraham (born 17 July 1964, London) is an English Vocalist. The Impossible Dream is the debut album from ''The X Factor'' UK series 2 runner-up Andy Abraham. Events 1600 - The Linköping Bloodbath takes place on Maundy Thursday in Linköping, Sweden. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Soul Man is the second Album from ''The X Factor'' UK series 2 runner-up Andy Abraham. Events 1002 - English king Ethelred orders the killing of all Danes in England, known today as the St Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar.	Steve Brookstein (Season 1, Winner) 257,000	Heart and Soul (May 9, 2005) Sony BMG 250,000 Gold[70] Peak: #1	40,000 Things (October 9, 2006) Numunu Records 7,000 N/A Peak: #165
7. Stephen "Steve" Desmond Brookstein (born 10 November 1968) is a British jazz and soul singer who rose to fame in the United Kingdom after becoming Heart And Soul is the name of a 1995 album by the British pop group Five Star. Events 1457 BC - Battle of Megiddo (15th century BC between Thutmose III and a large Canaanite coalition under the King of Year 2005 ( MMV) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar of the Gregorian calendar. Events 768 - Carloman I and Charlemagne are crowned Kings of The Franks. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar.	Ray Quinn (Season 3, Runner-Up) 215,000	Ray Quinn (March 12, 2007) Sony BMG 215,000 Gold Peak: #1
8. Raymond Arthur Quinn (born 25 August 1988 in Liverpool, Merseyside) is an English Actor,singer and dancer third of three Ray Quinn is the self-titled debut album from The X Factor series 3 runner up Ray Quinn, released on 12 March Events 538 - Witiges, king of the Ostrogoths ends his siege of Rome and retreats to Ravenna, leaving Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century.	Ben Mills (Season 3, 3rd Place) 133,000	Picture of You (March 12, 2007) Sony BMG 133,000 Gold Peak: #3

A comprehensive list of other X-Factor alumni album sales reflects that commercial success can be achieved through association with The X-Factor and with post-X-Factor promotion; although the degree of success varies considerably (this list only includes contestants who have no certified albums, and again does not include pre-X-Factor recordings):

	Former Contestant	Total Sales	Albums
9. Benjamin Collett Mills (born 1 March 1980 in Chatham, Kent, England) is a British singer who shot to fame on the third Picture of You is the debut album from The X Factor series 3 contestant Ben Mills, released on 12 March 2007 Events 538 - Witiges, king of the Ostrogoths ends his siege of Rome and retreats to Ravenna, leaving Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century.	The MacDonald Brothers (Season 3, 4th Place)	25,000	The MacDonald Bros (2 April 2007) #18 The World Outside (15 October 2007) #28 With Love (8 February 2008) Did Not Chart
10. The MacDonald Brothers are a singing duo from Ayrshire in Scotland, brothers Brian and Craig MacDonald	Maria Lawson (Season 2, 8th Place)	19,000	Maria Lawson (28 August 2006) #41 TBA (July 2008) #TBA
11. Maria Lawson, (born 24 May 1975) is an English singer who appeared on The X Factor.	Rowetta Satchell (Season 1, 4th Place)	10,000	Rowetta (3 October 2005) #89

Merchandise

• The X Factor Revealed The Greatest Auditions Ever (Series 1 DVD)
• The X Factor Greatest Auditions Ever (Series 2 DVD)
• The X Factor Revealed (Series 3 DVD)
• Access All Areas (Book)
• Interactive DVD Game
• The X Factor Chocolate Board Game
• The X Factor Sing (Karaoke Game)

References

External links

• The X Factor at itv.com
• X Factor Community The Number 1 X Factor Community!
• The X Factor Official MySpace page
• The X Factor at the Internet Movie Database
• The X Factor at talkbackthames. itvcom is the main website of ITV plc, the UK's biggest commercial Television broadcaster which operates 12 regions of the ITV network under the ITV1 Brand tv
• The X Factor - Show News & Gossip at thexfactor. com
• The X Factor at Unreality TV
• The X Factor Gifts Official Gift Shop

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