The X-Factor is the UK’s most popular television talent show. Despite its audience viewing figures plummeting to an all-time low of 9 million viewers last weekend, the show remains one of the most talked about events in the tabloids this week. Topping the rumour mill is that Simon Cowell, the venomous judge and executive producer of the show, will be re-joining the panel in 2014.
Ranking high on the gist list was Jedward’s appearance at the Wembley Arena gig. Despite the twin brothers’ being snubbed in the past, and omitted from the chart topping compilation CD, they were invited to join the other familiar faces on this occasion to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of the show. In the show’s semi-final, Kitty Brucknell kicked off a medley in true Miley Cyrus style, paving the way for a mash-up of Jedward’s rendition of Ice Ice Baby by Vanilla Ice, and Under Pressure by Queen. Flying down in silver sparkly jackets, the boys left the judges in a state of shock as they jumped up onto their table with pussycat doll Nicole Scherzinger and Sharon Osbourne looking visibly alarmed.
Their appearance on the show marked a welcome return to prominence for Jedward. Last year, John and Edward Grimes won Eurosong, winning both the jury and the public vote. In doing so, they became the first and only act to represent Ireland in Eurovision Song Contest for two consecutive years, advancing to the finals on both occasions. Last month, they flew to California to film and release a music video to “Can’t Forget You” ; an album track that’s been a fan favourite on their third album, Young Love.
It was good to see Jedward inject their playful flavour into a show that badly needs a makeover. Hopefully, we’ll see more of them in 2014.
Photo: Eurovision.tv (EBU)
