The X Factor final this weekend promises a flurry of high-profile performances, hometown celebrations and surprise collaborations as the show’s remaining acts prepare for the live shows. Mentors are set to join their contestants on stage, established pop acts make farewell appearances, and several contestants have been visiting their hometowns to drum up support ahead of the vote. Below is a concise, polished summary of the main developments ahead of the final.
Confirmed guest performers and final appearances
Westlife have confirmed they will perform on the X Factor final this weekend, marking a notable TV appearance as the band prepares to split up next year. Other headline guests expected to appear include Coldplay, Leona Lewis, Michael Bublé, JLS and One Direction. These acts add star power to what is already shaping up to be a high-stakes evening for the contestants.
Mentors to duet with their acts
After efforts to secure additional big-name duet partners, mentors Gary Barlow, Kelly Rowland and Tulisa are each planning to share the stage and perform with their protégés during the final. Producers initially approached several outside stars, but when those options were not confirmed, mentors stepped in to deliver the collaborative moments viewers expect. This decision has generated renewed interest in the contest and has influenced some betting markets, particularly around Marcus Collins, whose odds tightened after Gary Barlow’s announced involvement.
Key notes and voting details
Organizers have also adjusted the voting procedure for the live final, temporarily suspending text voting due to a shortened cut-off timeframe. Contestants and their teams are working intensively to maximize last-minute support, and viewers should check the show’s official guidance for the final voting method on the night.
Amelia Lily returns to Middlesbrough amid speculation
Amelia Lily, 17, has been at the center of speculation after her presumed winner’s single briefly appeared for pre-order on a major retailer’s site. The singer publicly distanced herself from the controversy this week by returning to her hometown of Middlesbrough to reconnect with friends and former classmates. She visited Teesside High School, greeted supporters and performed informally for students, presenting a composed front as the final approaches.
Marcus Collins homecoming in Liverpool
Marcus Collins returned to Liverpool in the run-up to the live final, receiving warm local support. The 23-year-old contestant made a striking arrival at his former school by helicopter and later hosted his mentor Gary Barlow, who visited the family and shared a quiet moment over tea. The homecoming underscores the strong hometown backing many contestants receive during the final week.
Little Mix make the rounds of hometowns
As with other finalists, girl group Little Mix have been visiting the individual hometowns of each member to rally local supporters. After a visit to Jesy Nelson’s hometown of Romford, Essex, the group and mentor Tulisa traveled to South Shields to meet friends, family and fans. With several members, Little Mix’s promotional schedule involves multiple stops and extra travel to reconnect with communities that have supported them through the series.
One Direction and JLS collaborate for the final
In a special moment for the final, One Direction and JLS—both acts who first rose to prominence on The X Factor—have been rehearsing a combined performance. The two groups reportedly worked together on a mash-up of two of their biggest hits, creating a unique supergroup moment for the live show. The collaboration serves as a celebratory nod to the show’s history of launching successful pop careers.
Kelly Rowland, pop culture and other show buzz
Kelly Rowland will be participating on the night and was widely discussed during press coverage this week. Separately, various light-hearted stories and human-interest items have flourished around the finalists and celebrity mentors, from fashion commentary to personal anecdotes about friendships and relationships among public figures involved with the show.
Notable personal stories: Caroline Flack and Harry Styles
The relationship between presenter Caroline Flack and One Direction’s Harry Styles attracted tabloid attention after the singer was seen leaving her home following an overnight stay. Both parties reacted publicly in a way that downplayed controversy, with Flack describing their connection as a fun, harmless companionship.
Former contestants and return-to-street performances
Former contestant Gamu Nhengu, who faced immigration-related challenges last year, was reported to have been busking in Glasgow for a charitable cause. Despite past controversy related to her X Factor appearance, she emphasized that returning to the programme would feel like a backward step and that her current efforts are focused on performing and supporting local initiatives.
Fashion and public reaction
Cheryl Cole addressed criticism of an outfit she wore on X Factor USA, defending her choices and noting that trends and personal taste are subjective. The ongoing public discourse around fashion and image remains a frequent sidebar to the main competition, reflecting broader media interest in both performances and presentation.
The live final promises to combine competitive tension with memorable performances, mentorship collaborations and appearances from major pop acts. Viewers tuning in should expect celebrity duets, hometown showcases and several standout moments as the winning act is determined.