The iconic ITV talent show, The X Factor, which captivated audiences with its dramatic auditions and chart-topping contestants, is reportedly set to return to screens seven years after its initial run concluded. The show, famous for launching global music sensations, has a storied past of both meteoric rises and less successful ventures for its participants. From global superstars to those who pursued different paths, here’s a look at what happened to some of The X Factor‘s most memorable stars.
The X Factor’s Enduring Legacy
For years, The X Factor was a Saturday night television staple, drawing in millions of viewers with its blend of raw talent, emotional backstories, and Simon Cowell’s sharp critiques. Hosted by Dermot O’Leary, the show provided a platform for aspiring singers, launching careers that defined a generation. While some contestants achieved worldwide fame and chart dominance, others found their post-show journeys took unexpected turns.
Chico Slimane: From Goat Herder to Wellness Guru
Chico Slimane, a contestant from the 2005 series, became an instant fan favorite with his energetic performances and infectious hit single, “It’s Chico Time.” Despite reaching the quarter-finals and seeing his debut single top the charts, his singing career did not achieve sustained mainstream success. Slimane, who once worked as a goat herder in Morocco, has since transitioned into the health and fitness industry. He runs a wellness retreat in Portugal and developed his own fitness program called Block Fit. In 2018, he bravely shared his experience of suffering a stroke due to a blood clot, from which he made a full recovery, describing himself as a “walking, talking miracle.” He also revealed in 2026 that he had overcome significant financial ruin after falling victim to an investment scam, emphasizing his resilience and focus on well-being.
One Direction: The Boyband Phenomenon
Arguably the most significant success story to emerge from The X Factor, One Direction was formed in 2010 from five solo contestants: Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, and the late Liam Payne. The group achieved unprecedented global fame, selling over 70 million records and earning nearly 200 awards. Their debut single, “What Makes You Beautiful,” propelled them to stardom, followed by five successful albums and sold-out world tours. After an indefinite hiatus in 2016, the members have pursued successful solo careers. Harry Styles has become a global superstar with multiple Grammy Awards and sold-out stadium tours. Louis Tomlinson and Niall Horan have also enjoyed successful solo careers, with Tomlinson selling out Madison Square Garden and Horan embarking on UK tours. Tragically, Liam Payne passed away in October 2024 at the age of 31. The band reunited for his funeral, marking a poignant moment for fans.
Little Mix: Chart-Topping Girl Group
In 2011, Little Mix made history as the first girl group to win The X Factor. Mentored by Tulisa Contostavlos, Perrie Edwards, Jade Thirlwall, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, and Jesy Nelson went on to achieve significant success, becoming the first British female group to win the BRIT Award for Best Group in 2021. With six studio albums and 50 million records sold, they produced numerous hit songs. In 2020, Jesy Nelson departed the group, citing fame pressures and mental health struggles. The remaining trio continued, announcing their hiatus and embarking on a final tour in 2022. All four members have since pursued solo endeavors. Jade Thirlwall has garnered critical acclaim, winning Best Pop Act at the 2025 Brit Awards. Jesy Nelson released a documentary about her experiences and has been a prominent advocate for increased screening for SMA Type 1, a rare muscle-wasting condition affecting her twin daughters, successfully campaigning for wider UK rollout of the screening test.
Rylan Clark: From Reality TV to Presenting Star
Rylan Clark gained national attention during his time on the ninth series of The X Factor, famously breaking down in tears when Nicole Scherzinger announced he was through to the live shows. Despite being eliminated ninth and facing some criticism, Clark has built an exceptionally successful career as a television presenter. He has hosted numerous popular shows, including *Big Brother’s Bit On The Side*, *This Morning*, and *Ready Steady Cook*. His popularity also led to a winning stint on *Celebrity Big Brother* in 2013. Clark has also presented *Strictly: It Takes Two* and is part of the UK’s Eurovision commentary team, alongside hosting a popular Saturday afternoon show on Radio 2. His travel series with Rob Rinder earned them a BAFTA award in 2025.
Stacey Solomon: DIY Queen and Media Personality
Stacey Solomon, who finished third in the 2009 series at the age of 19, has transformed into a beloved media personality and DIY expert. After winning *I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!* in 2010, she became a regular on television panels, notably joining *Loose Women* in 2016. Solomon has cultivated a massive social media following, sharing her popular cleaning and DIY tips. Her book, *Tap to Tidy*, became a bestseller, and she hosts the BBC show *Sort Your Life Out*, for which she won National Television Awards in 2024 and 2025. She has also ventured into business, becoming a part-owner of a hair care brand and reportedly amassing a business empire worth over £10 million. In her personal life, she is married to actor Joe Swash, and they share three children, alongside Solomon’s two sons from previous relationships. Their family life is documented in their reality series.
Olly Murs: Chart-Topping Singer and Coach
Olly Murs finished as runner-up in the 2009 series and has since enjoyed a highly successful music career. He has achieved over £30 million in record sales, with 18 Top 40 hits, including four number ones, and four number one albums. Murs also served as a coach on *The Voice UK* from 2017 to 2023. He co-hosts a Saturday breakfast show on Heart Radio and has toured extensively, including supporting Take That. In recent years, Murs has prioritized family life, taking a step back from extensive touring to focus on being a present father to his son, Albert, and daughter, Madison, with his wife Amelia Tank.
Alexandra Burke: West End Star and Musical Performer
Alexandra Burke won The X Factor in 2008, with her debut single “Hallelujah” selling over a million copies in the UK. Her debut album *Overcome* spawned further hits like “Bad Boys.” Burke transitioned to musical theatre, starring in productions such as *The Bodyguard* and becoming the first Black Narrator in *Joseph And The Technicolour Dreamcoat*. She also competed in *Strictly Come Dancing*, finishing as runner-up in 2017. Currently, Burke is starring as Chaka Khan in *The Chaka Khan Musical* on the West End.
Jedward: Eurovision Stars and TV Personalities
Irish twins John and Edward Grimes, known as Jedward, participated in the 2009 series, finishing in sixth place. Despite dividing opinions with their flamboyant performances, they released three albums, with two going double platinum in Ireland. They represented Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest twice, in 2011 and 2012. Jedward has also had a successful television career, hosting children’s shows and appearing on various reality programs like *Celebrity Big Brother*. However, they have publicly voiced criticisms regarding their experiences on The X Factor and the music industry.
Wagner Fiuza-Carrilho: A Memorable Wildcard
Wagner Fiuza-Carrilho, a former Brazilian P.E. teacher, became one of The X Factor‘s most distinctive contestants in 2010. Initially not making the live shows, he was brought back as a wildcard by mentor Louis Walsh. Despite reaching the quarter-finals and generating headlines, including news of a baby with his then-girlfriend, Wagner later returned to Brazil to attempt to launch a hair transplant business. This venture did not succeed, and he has since returned to the UK.
Honey G: The Unique Rapper
Honey G, real name Anna Gilford, stood out in the 2016 series with her distinctive style and rapping performances. Mentored by Sharon Osbourne, she finished in fifth place. While her music career did not reach major commercial heights, she has undergone a significant personal transformation, losing weight and adopting a more low-key style. She previously spoke about being dismissed from a job as an estate agent after 40 days, as her ambition remained focused on her music career.
The X Factor’s Lasting Impact
The potential return of The X Factor highlights the show’s significant cultural impact. It not only launched the careers of global superstars like One Direction but also provided a platform for many other artists to find success, whether in music, television, or other entrepreneurial ventures. The journeys of these contestants, marked by both extraordinary highs and challenging periods, continue to fascinate audiences, underscoring the enduring appeal of the talent show format.
