Malta: JESC 2016 host Ben Camille confirmed as host of The X Factor Malta

Last month Maltese broadcaster TVM confirmed that it would be ditching the Malta Eurovision Song Contest, and would instead use new series The X Factor Malta to select its act for Eurovision 2019. The broadcaster has now confirmed that the series will be hosted by Junior Eurovision 2016 co-host Ben Camille.

Model/actor Ben may be best known to Eurovision fans as the co-host of Junior Eurovision 2016. While his background suggested he was a good pick for the role, Ben Camille — along with co-host Valerie Vella — was criticised for wooden delivery and a series of blunders, including revealing the winning country too early.

However, Ben previously had the more successful gig as the host of Malta Eurovision Song Contest 2016, and proved himself capable of presenting the two live shows.

He’s also known for his modelling career, and has established himself as a television actor. He recently starred in the popular Maltese historic drama series Strada stretta.

Ben shared the news with his fans on Facebook. He said that working with an international brand like The X Factor had always been his dream. And he was optimistic for the local singers of Malta, adding that, “I truly believe that this is a huge step in the right direction as well as an amazing opportunity for all the local singing talent that we have here in Malta!”

The next big announcement expected to come from The X Factor Malta is the names of the judges. So far, no hints have been dropped, but fans of Ira Losco have suggested she would be perfect for the panel.

Contestant applications for The X Factor Malta are now open and will close tomorrow, Wednesday 4 July.

What do you think? Who would you like to see judging on The X Factor Malta? Which singers would you like to audition for the series? Share your thoughts below!

Read more Malta Eurovision Song Contest news here