X Factor UK news roundup
It was a busy week for One Direction. The band announced the title of their next single and saw pre-orders surge overnight. They also filmed a new music video that features the group at a pool party, performing in soaked shirts. Zayn Malik briefly left Twitter and returned within two days, while the group were confirmed as headliners for the BBC Radio 1 Teen Awards on October 7. In other moments caught by the press, Liam and Louis were photographed riding bikes around London.
Leona Lewis premiered her new single “Trouble” and filmed the accompanying music video in Los Angeles, which features Teen Wolf actor Colton Haynes in a prominent role.
JLS revealed the name of their fourth album, Evolution, and have already shot the music video for their forthcoming single as they prepare to promote the new record.
Little Mix finally released their debut single “Wings” on iTunes UK last night; it has debuted at number one. The group celebrated their first anniversary together and made an appearance on the morning show This Morning as they continue to build their profile after The X Factor.
Joe McElderry premiered a brand-new original song, marking a release that is not a cover and demonstrating fresh material from the former X Factor winner.
Rebecca Ferguson is re-releasing her debut album Heaven as a deluxe edition. Her next single will be “Backtrack,” and the re-release will include the track “I’ll Count the Days,” which is tied to the forthcoming series of Downton Abbey.
Alexandra Burke celebrated her 24th birthday this week, marking another personal milestone for the singer.
Olly Murs hinted that he would consider stepping into a judge’s role on The X Factor if long-serving judge Louis Walsh ever chose to leave, a comment that attracted attention for its ambition.
More X Factor developments: Simon Cowell has reportedly removed Sinitta from the X Factor lineup, and choreographer Brian Friedman appears to be returning to the UK edition of the show after working on the US version. Several audition standouts from this season have been granted early press interviews, including Ella Henderson, who has spoken about staying grounded as the show progresses. Another contestant, Lucy Spraggen, made headlines after tattooing Olly Murs’s name on her foot.
Executives have expressed confidence in the long-term future of The X Factor. ITV boss Peter Fincham suggested the show still has years ahead, while producers have also begun exploring new formats should Simon Cowell decide to step away. At the same time, executive producer Richard Holloway has voiced criticism of rival singing competition The Voice.
If you’re following this season’s spoilers and upcoming segments, details about judges’ houses locations and guest appearances have been reported by the press.
Irish charts this week
Singles
1 Of Monsters And Men – Little Talks
7 Owl City & Carly Rae Jepsen – Good Time
24 Cheryl Cole – Under The Sun
26 Carly Rae Jepsen – Call Me Maybe
31 Loreen – Euphoria
41 Cheryl Cole – Call My Name
50 One Direction – What Makes You Beautiful
88 Olly Murs – Dance With Me Tonight
Albums
1 Ryan O’Shaughnessy – Ryan O’Shaughnessy
5 One Direction – Up All Night
16 Jedward – Young Love
45 Aiden Grimshaw – Misty Eye
47 Olly Murs – In Case You Didn’t Know
51 Cheryl Cole – A Million Lights
62 Jedward – Victory
71 Kelly Clarkson – Stronger
The Official Charts this week
Singles
1 Sam & The Womp – Bom Bom
17 Owl City & Carly Rae Jepsen – Good Time
23 Cheryl Cole – Under The Sun
27 Carly Rae Jepsen – Call Me Maybe
55 One Direction – What Makes You Beautiful
62 Cheryl Cole – Call My Name
70 Lucy Spraggan – Last Night
79 Loreen – Euphoria
84 Misha B – Home Run
Albums
1 Emeli Sande – Our Version Of Events
12 One Direction – Up All Night
19 Aiden Grimshaw – Misty Eye
32 Olly Murs – In Case You Didn’t Know
46 Kelly Clarkson – Stronger
49 Cheryl Cole – A Million Lights