King of the rink! Matthew Wolfenden wins Dancing On Ice after performing 'most difficult' Bolero since the show began

By Nadia Mendoza


Triumphant: Matthew Wolfenden takes over as Dancing on Ice champion from last year's winner Sam Attwater

Matthew Wolfenden has taken the baton from Sam Attwater to be crowned king of the rink.

The Emmerdale star won Dancing On Ice tonight, pipping rival Jorgie Porter to the title.

It was neck and neck as the two finalists performed their breathtaking Boleros - with head judge Robin Cousins saying Matthew's was the 'most difficult' since the programme began in 2006.

King of the rink: Matthew Wolfenden beat Jorgie Porter to win Dancing On Ice 2012

Having both scored perfect maximum 30s for previous performances, the competition was tight.

As it was announced, a very shocked Matthew said: 'It's going to take a few days to sink in. The first time I stood on the ice, I thought I'd made the biggest mistake of my life and I'd be a laughing stock.'

Jorgie could barely speak as she choked on tears, but managed to say: 'I'm so happy for them.'

Following their incredible final performance, Robin said: 'That is the most difficult Bolero we have had since the start of the show.'


Moment of truth: The atmosphere was incredibly tense before Phillip Schofield announced the winner

Fireworks: The studio was full of pyrotechnics after Matthew won

Katarina Witt heaped praise on him, saying: 'From the beginning it was mesmerizing, it was gentle, it was sexy.

'I can't imagine what kind of world class skater you would've become if you had started as a little boy.'

The opening of the show was like waiting an hour for a bus - and three come along at once - as Matthew finally received a perfect score of 10 from the trio of judges to score the maximum of 30.


'World class': Judge Katarina Witt said Matthew would be 'world class' had he trained from being a boy

Strong: Mathew is now a pro at lifting partner Nina in various over-head moves

Along with partner Nina Ulanova, the duo performed an ensemble piece to Singin' In The Rain.

Recreating the iconic Gene Kelly performance - complete with bowler hat, umbrella and a lamppost - the routine was thrilling as they were joined by an ensemble cast of the professional male skaters.

Judge Louie Spence claimed Matthew's skills 'surpassed' those of the West End cast.

Having seen the production twice at the Palace Theatre in London this week, he said: 'I'm telling you, what you have just done on the ice, surpassed what I have seen on feet.'


Gutted: After all her hard work, Jorgie ended in second place


Pipped to the post: Jorgie Porter was the runner-up despite an incredible routine with Matt Evers

Captivating: Both couples had to start their routine on their knees and finish lying down on the ice

Robin added: 'I've been waiting for a few weeks to reward you that 10. You just led a fully professional ensemble piece as the leading man.'

Matthew was clearly overwhelmed, saying: 'I can't believe it, I'm lost for words,' before Christopher Dean revealed he and Jayne (Torvill) had 'goosebumps'.

But snapping at his tail was little pixie Jorgie, who earned herself 29.

Saying goodbye for another year: Mentors Christopher Dean and Jayne Torvill posed with the winning duo and presenters Christine Bleakley and Phillip Schofield

Looking every inch the pop princess in a fiery red leotard, she put on a magical showcase to the iconic theme tune of Fame with partner Matt Evers.

Rewarding another 10, Louie said: 'You are hot! You burnt the floor out there, the ice was melting. The lifts were phenomenally difficult and you were just throwing them out. It was absolutely superb.'

She was marked down to 9.5 by both Robin and Katarina for her lack of solo skating.

Tense: The final three can't hide their nerves as it's revealed who will skate the Bolero

While crediting the performance, Katarina added: 'I missed a little bit of skating, but the lifts were difficult and perfectly done.'

However, the Hollyoaks actress didn't seem too fazed, saying: 'I got a 10! I'm going to watch this back and not believe it's me.'

Sadly there was very nearly disaster for Chico and Jodeyne Higgins, which undoubtedly cost them their place in the final.


Top marks: Jorgie and Matt Evers scored a maximum 30 for their routine to Fallin' by Alicia Keys

Graceful: Jorgie's poise was reminiscent of a ballerina

During their routine to Happy Days, a lift didn't quite have the perfect execution it should have, meaning Jodeyne fell to the ice.

However, the pair continued and received a respectable 26.

Louie said: 'I've championed you from the start. You never fail to go out there and give 100 per cent. I know how much this means to you, so I hope you give your next performance 150 per cent.'


Tricksters: Chico and Jorgie both had their turn to shine in their second performance, scoring a perfect 30

Leather-clad: Matthew earned himself 28.5 with his rendition of Queen's Don't Stop Me Now

Robin added: 'You really did get back into it, you didn't lose momentum,' while Katarina said: 'As athletes ourselves, something like this always break our hearts.

'Even with mistakes, we shouldn't criticise, it was still fun and cool.'

Ever the optimist, Chico chirped: 'It's a real shame as I slipped, but the heart of a champion is one that gets down, gets up and carries on.'


Impeccable pecs: Chico stripped off to perform topless and in zebra leggings

Over the moon: Chico couldn't hide his excitement at scoring a perfect 30

The stars then got to repeat their favourite performance from the series, with Matthew slipping into his leathers once again for Queen's iconic hit Don't Stop Me Now.

First time round he had scored 26 in week six, improving this time to receive 28.5.

Yet he was soon triumphed by the incredible Jorgie, whose turn it was to score a perfect 30.


Remember her name: Jorgie showcased her svelte figure during her ensemble routine to Fame


Don't drop her! Jorgie got thrown around during her daredevil routine

Hurling her into the air: Jorgie has mastered the art of gymnastics as well as skating

After swanning across the ice to Fallin' by Alicia Keys, in which she also scored 26 in week six, she said: 'I feel hysterical... I thought it might be the last dance I ever did with Matt, so I really tried.'

Parading his impeccable pecs, topless Chico stripped off for LMFAO's I'm Sexy And I Know It - and also scored a perfect 30.

Having received 25 in week 9, Chico said: 'It proved I could've gone backstage and crumbled... I might be the underdog but tonight I feel like I'm under God.'

Welcome back: Everyone from Jennifer Ellison to Corey Feldman returned

Of course, former stars were welcomed back before the final two were revealed, seeing the return of Andy Akinwolere, Andy Whyment, Charlene Tilton, Chemmy Alcott, Corey Feldman, Heidi Range, Jennifer Ellison, Laila Morse, Mark Rhodes, Rosemary Conley, Sam Nixon and Sébastien Foucan.

It was then revealed Chico would not be dancing the Bolero, before Matthew went on to win the show.

As he waved goodbye, the former X Factor contestant gushed about his time on the series, saying: 'This lady (Jodeyne) is the best. My wife and child are over there, so she's the second best lady.'


Disaster: Chico nearly dropped Jodeyne as they danced to Happy Days





source:dailymail

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Bet Robbie's happy! Jennifer Ellison is out of Dancing On Ice, which means her husband can enjoy her newly-toned body

By Marcus Barnes


Jennifer Ellison was sent packing in tonight's Dancing On Ice semi-final after failing to impress the judges.

Her departure will be good news to her husband Robbie Tickle who she's promised will 'reap the benefits' of her svelte new figure when she leaves the show.

The actress, 28, had improved immensely on her early performances but still lacked that extra level of skill that would have taken her to the final.

Emotional: The former Brookside star fought back tears after the performance

She left in tears, upset that she couldn't carry on with the show which she said had taught her to believe in herself.

Three celebrities remained in the semi-final after Matthew Wolfenden earlier went straight through to the final when he topped the leader board.

And it was left down to the public vote as to who would face each other in the dance off.

Chico and Jodeyne made it through, and he dropped to his knees when the news was announced.

He had been the show's underdog for much of the series, but finally proved his worth with two great performances on tonight's show.

And so Jennifer and Jorgie had to repeat their dances in the final dance off.

High energy: Jennifer Ellison enjoyed her routine with Daniel Whiston

That meant another Reverse Neck Spin for Jen and another high-risk Headbanger for Jorgie.

The dance was probably better than her first effort and she fought back tears again afterwards, this time however they were tears of joy as everyone agreed it was best dance to date.

Jorgie also managed to pull of her dance a lot better than she had done first time around, even her Headbanger looked better.

Then they faced the judging panel.

Elegant: Jorgie Porter with her dancing partner Matt Evers

Louie saved Jorgie, Robin also saved Jorgie as did Katarina - although all three agreed Jennifer had performed her best dance so far.

Matt Wolfenden had earlier made his way straight into the final with a near-perfect performance in both his routine with Nina Ulanova and his solo dance.

In fact there was just one blip in proceedings when his Headbanger maneuver went awry.

He ended up with 56 points, which put him just half a point ahead of Chico, but meant he was immune from the public vote.

So slick: Matthew Wolfenden was the consumate professional during his dance and topped the leader board

Matthew and partner Nina Ulanova were the last up on the show.

The couple danced to The Way You Make Me Feel by Michael Jackson and featured a few little nods to the late King Of Pop.

They included the dreaded Headbanger in their dance.

It began with the duo flirting with one another, Matt attempting to grab Nina's attention before they launched into the routine.

Oops! Nina struggles to get up from the Headbanger which almost ended in disaster

Matt kept his hips flexing like Michael Jackson throughout, they pull the Angel Of The North lift among others along with a baseball slide and a walkover doughnut.

The Headbanger at the end wasn't quite perfect but it looked good and they avoided disaster.

Katarina awarded the twosome 9.5 while the other two judges gave them 9, giving them 27.5 altogether.

Later on he needed a near-perfect score in the Ultimate Skills Test to top the leader board after Chico had earlier picked up 55.5 points with his two dances.

Lifting spirits: Matt carries Nina during their dance which impressed the judges

And his almost professional dance looked great and he finished to a rousing applause from the studio audience.

All the judges give him 9.5, he topped the leader board with 56 points and won immunity from the public vote.

He said: 'I was terrifying, but what a pleasure to do it.'

Perhaps it was a power nap before the show that helped spur him on.

Celebration: Matt is full of glee as the judges award him big points

The Emmerdale star told his Twitter followers earlier tonight: 'A quick nap before show time! Hope your all gonna tune in later!!! M'

He tweeted an hour later, saying: 'I’m awake now! Thanks so much for all the tweets. Tweet ya later. M x'

First up on tonight's show was the showman Chico, 40, who was no doubt buoyed by last week's high score of 27.

He and his partner Jodeyne Higgins have been given The Flood by Take That as their song.

Christopher Dean says it's powerful and emotive and that he hopes it will subdue Chico's personality which sometimes overrides his performances.

You raise me up: Chico pulls off one of many lifts during his high-scoring routine

Ahead of his time on the ice, Chico said: 'I need to dig deep and present a differet facade.'

The routine finishes with a dangerous banana lift and spin where they're blades are next to each others' faces.

Their smooth, emotional dance involves lots of great transitions including an impressive Monster Lift.

They pull off the banana lift perfectly and end with big smiles on their faces and get 9.5 from each judge, totaling 28.5 leaving him almost speechless.

Show of strength: The former X Factor star lifts partner Jodeyne above his head

'That was by far my favourite routine so far.' he said, before he wished his wife a happy Mother's Day.

Robin Cousins told Chico: 'I said you needed to stop being so generous to the other contestants, to be selfish and contain it and you did. That was brilliant skating, you were controlled and protective of Jodeyne.'

Katarina Witt, added: 'You are non skater, out there and in control. You tell her where to go, it's so strong. I'm amazed, you have no idea how good you are.'

Louie had lots to say about the performance, the highlight of which was: 'For a non-skater, celebrity to do what you're doing is outstanding.'

Muscle man: Chico shows off his winning form

Former Brookside actress Jennifer Ellison followed Chico's highly-rated routine.

Her dance, with partner Daniel Whiston included plenty of lifts including the Arabeqsue Lift and the frightening Reverse Neck Spin.

The couple danced to I Wanna Dance With Somebody by the late Whitney Houston.

The upbeat song had the audience clapping from the off, Jennifer appeared a little unsteady at times, but they worked they way through the routine with plenty of energy.

Emotional: The couple danced to The Flood by Take That which seemed to bring out the best in Chico

Just before the Reverse Neck Spin Jennifer stumbled a little, but they pull it off brilliantly and looked great.

Jennifer fought back tears as the judges gave the duo eight points each resulting in a total of 24.

Katarina told her: 'We always enjoy your performance, you have great chemistry with Daniel. But I didn't see enough improvement, there were great lifts but you did a stumble at the end. In general I wish I would have seen you how you've been improving over the last few weeks.

Louie added: 'You've come so far. After the kick in the head you began to shine. I think Chico's performance has put everyone on edge though. Unfortunately the standards are so high, that the stumble let you down.

Pain in the neck: The actress pulled off the Reverse Neck Spin but stumbled just before she did it which resulted in less points

Robin agreed, but also said: 'You are a brilliant and wonderful performer and we love watching you.'

Jorgie and Matt followed Jennifer and Dan, and they were hoping to step up after their low score last week.

The Headbanger move in their routine has proved to be almost impossible for the Hollyoaks star during rehearsals.

Jorgie and Daniel danced to Shake It Out by Florence & The Machine and their routine was punctuated by lots of small steps, lunges and smooth transitions.

And that's that! Jennifer and Dan end their routine which received the lowest score of the evening

Their dance didn't quite match up to the drama of Florence's song although they interspersed it with some great lunges and a back spiral side by side.

She managed to step in and step out of the Floating Headbanger, becoming the first contestant ever to do so on the show.

Louie gave the duo 9.5 and they got 9 points each from the other judges.

An excited Louie told Jorgie: 'You are so back! What I like about you is that you utilise every piece of the music. Babes you're back, you could go all the way.'

High risk: The duo pulled off the Headbanger move
Katarina added: 'In the afternoon I was worried about the program, it was so full of difficulties. But landing on one foot... what more can you ask for?'

And Robin agreed telling the couple: 'You stuck with a difficult routine and made it happen.'

Speaking about the score she gave the couple, Katarina says: 'I would have given you 10 if it wasn't for the mistake at the end. If somebody walks in and sees you for the first time, no one would know who was the professional out of you two. For me it was almost, almost perfect.'

Angelic: Hollyoaks star Jorgie pulled some elegant moves during her dance

Robin told them: 'You work well together. Only thing you need to watch is your cross behinds and cross overs, make sure they do cross behind and cross over, make sure detail stays in feet as well as in your dancing relationship.'

While Louie enthused: 'Fabulous performance. You really do dance on the ice, it's like you're not on skates. The mistake shows you how difficult the lifts are, but you recovered quickly and it was still a great performance.'

As if their complicated routines weren't enough the celebrities then had to pass the Ultimate Skills Test which is a minute-long solo performance with 23 separate skills, each of which they need to perform in order to get top marks.

Good, but not good enough: Jennifer Ellison at the end of her solo dance

Chico is first and seems to pull it off with relative ease.

He gets 9 from each of the judges, 27 in total and 55.5 overall.

Without a hint of irony the former X Factor star told hosts Phillip Schofield and Christine Bleakley: 'I'm not normally lost for words, but I am today.'

Nervous Jennifer followed, after her emotional dance earlier, she still appeared worried as she started her dance.

Sparkling: Jorgie beams at the end of her Ultimate Skills Test

She set to it, and seemed relatively comfortable but stumbled during the double spin which she also had a few jitters with.

Louie gave her 7.5 while the others awarded her 8 each giving her a grand total of 47.5.

Afterwards, she said: 'One thing this show has taught me is to believe in myself, if I come back next week I will come back fighting.'

Jorgie Porter followed with an almost perfect solo performance, particularly her spin.

She geot 9 from each of the judges and said: 'I'm just so happy with all, I've had a really good week this week. Whatever happens, happens.'




source:dailymail

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'My body is a temple, and my temple needs redecorating': Joan Rivers undergoes ANOTHER cosmetic surgery operation on reality TV show

By Sarah Fitzmaurice


Need a little more work? Joan Rivers was seen undergoing plastic surgery on the first episode of the second season of her reality TV show


She is not shy about speaking about her surgery and now Joan Rivers has shown fans what happens when she goes under the knife.

In the first episode of the second series of her reality TV show Joan & Melissa: Joan Knows Best which aired in the US last, night the Fashion Police host underwent surgery to ‘tune-up’ on her neck.

Joan,78, underwent the surgery despite concerns raised by her daughter and her family.

Waking up: Despite her family's worries Joan underwent the surgery anyway

As the mother daughter pair waited to speak to a surgeon Melissa told her mother: ‘I don’t want you to die’.

Melissa even staged a ‘skintervention’ where she tried to convince her mother to decide against the procedure.

Joan defiantly told her family: ‘My body is a temple, and my temple needs redecorating.’


A little nip a little tuck: Joan was seen in the make-up chair at the start of the show scrutinizing her face


Unrecognisable: Ahead of the surgery and without make-up on Joan looked completely different to how she does with her war paint on

Lining up the marks: Joan was seen ahead of surgery with the surgeon drawing out the areas he would be working on

Before the surgery she joked that she isn’t going for ‘a Chaz Bono’ just a touch up.

Also in the show the star, who has undergone numerous cosmetic procedures said it would be her 734th surgery.

But it was clear that Melissa’s concern did hit home with her mother who was anxious ahead of going under the knife again.


A little apprehensive? It seemed that as she headed into the surgery the comedienne was anxious

It's a wrap: Joan was seen covered in bandages as she recuperated at home

The comedian is seen without make-up preparing for the surgery and recuperating from the treatment.

Melissa is seen caring for her mother and tells the camera: ‘Cover at age two was easier to handle than my mother after an operation.’

Ahead of her season two premiere Joan caused controversy for taking a swipe at Chelsea Handler.

It all started on Howard Stern’s Sirius XM show on Monday when Chelsea was asked about her reaction to Joan’s recent criticism of her.

She responded: 'What the f**k do I care about Joan Rivers?''

Getting some rest: The star was seen relaxing while her daughter looked after her

The E! late night host then went on to recount an incident at a recent Comcast party where Joan made a speech and took some digs at Chelsea for acquiring a new stage, which was formerly Conan O'Brien's stage.

The next day, Joan Rivers and daughter Melissa had their turn on Howard’s show and discussed their thoughts on Chelsea.

Without any of her trademark verve, Joan spat: 'The girl made it on her back f**king the president [of E!].'

The Fashion Police star, who shares a network with Handler, then went on to describe Chelsea as a 'drunk' and a 'whore.'

Handler did pen a best-seller called Are You There, Vodka? It's Me Chelsea.


source:dailymail

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'Thank you America!': Melanie Amaro's tears of joy as she's crowned first winner of X Factor USA

Josh is runner up as Chris comes in third place on all-star final


By Jade Watkins and Chris Johnson


In it to win it: Melanie Amaro collapses into a flood of joyful tears as she is crowned the winner of X Factor USA last night


Melanie Amaro erupted into a flood of joyful tears last night upon hearing she was crowned the winner of X Factor USA.

The powerful 19-year-old vocalist from Sunrise, Florida could barely keep her composure after winning the Fox talent competition over soulful 30-year-old singer Josh Krajcik of Wooster, Ohio.

Chris Rene, the 28-year-old singer-rapper from Santa Cruz, California, came in third place.

Emotional: The 19-year-old from Sunrise, Florida immediately broke down upon hearing the news


Amaro, who was mentored by judge Simon Cowell and was at one point eliminated from the contest, was awarded the grand prize: a $5 million recording contract and a starring role in a Pepsi commercial.

'Oh my God. Oh my God. Oh my God,' Amaro repeated after host Steve Jones announced her as the winner.

Despite continued prodding from Jones, Amaro couldn't quite formulate words when she was revealed to have captured the most viewer votes.


Shock: Amaro got down on her hands and knees to thank god upon hearing that she was the winner of the talent contest as host Steve Jones attempted to get a reaction from her


Floods: The diva in the making couldn't contain her herself from the very announcement to the moment when she got up on stage for her final performance

Difficulty: Amaro struggled through tears to reprise Beyonce's Listen, the soaring song that Amaro crooned at her audition and on Wednesday's final performance round


Upon finding out the news, Melanie embraced Simon and then immediately looked completely confused as to what had just happened as reality began to sink in.

Surrounded by friends and family who rushed to the stage to embrace her, Steve still failed to get a reaction from her.

Cowell instead spoke on her behalf.


Give us a hug! Mentor Simon Cowell reaches in to give Amaro a cuddle following the thrilling news


Congratulatory hugs: Amaro embraced Kracjik upon finding out she had taken the top prize

Gracious: Kracjik made an extremely gracious exit from the show, after coming in a close second


'I want to say, America, thank you for giving this girl an opportunity,' said Cowell, who has not mentored an X Factor winner since Leona Lewis in the U.K version of the show in 2006.

'This is an amazing moment for me, you are not going to get a word out of her Steve!'

Amaro then struggled through tears to reprise Beyonce's Listen, the soaring song that she crooned at her audition and on Wednesday's final performance round.

Comforted: Simon also made sure to give Kracjik a cuddle, while Nicole went in to embrace Amaro


The teen wobbled through the R'n'B track as she was joined onstage by the final 12, who were eager to embrace her.

Still in a flood of tears, Steve once again approached her for a comment and finally got a few more words out of the rising star.

'Thank you so much! OMG, I don't know what even to say... God is good... Thank you America!' she said.


What just happened? Amaro looked somewhat confused as to what had just happened

Tears for days: Amaro was certainly in need of some tissues


Gracious Kracjik, who was mentored by Nicole Scherzinger, told Jones: 'I feel amazing. Melanie deserves it. She has a wonderful voice. I've had such an incredible experience here ... I couldn't be happier.'

Moving over to Steve, Amaro dropped her knees to the floor and prayed her thanks to god.

Earlier in the show, Chris Rene was eliminated as the three finalists were cut down to two.


Celebration: At the end of her performance, Amaro was joined by the final 12 for some congratulatory hugs


The whole gang: The stage could only be described as electric

Still lost for words? Steve approached Amaro, who was still in tears, for one last comment at the end of the show


Comforted by his mentor L.A Reid, Rene told Jones that he was just pleased to be part of the show.

'I feel amazing that I got to do this, that I'm here and that God has blessed me with so many opportunities. I just got to say thank you,' he said.

L.A. said he was incredibly proud of his protege: 'It's a tough one right? I remained proud of Chris...This is how it turned out, this is still my man.'


Composed: Melanie was seen more following the show as she showed off her Pepsi trophy on the arm of mentor Simon


Here come the boys: Runner up Josh, third place Chris and host Steve Jones on the red carpet after the show

Lovely ladies: Nicole wore a glittering silver gown while Paula slipped into a red and pink number with green peep-toe heels


Before the winners and runners up were unveiled, the three finalists crooned classic Christmas tunes, and Justin Bieber, Stevie Wonder, Leona Lewis, Pitbull, Ne-Yo and 50 Cent performed various songs with former contestants.

Amaro opted to sing Mariah Carey's All I Want For Christmas Is You for her festive jingle.

Following the performance all four judges were almost rendered speechless, with nothing but praise for the 19-year-old.


Face-off duet: Amaro and Krajcik sang David Bowie's Heroes together before they found out who was crowned the winner

Anticipation: The final three were seen earlier looking nervous ahead of the highly anticipated announcement


'You did that song justice, that beautiful voice you have is a best friend a song has ever got,' said L.A.

'All I want for Christmas is a Melanie Amaro CD!' screeched Nicole.
Mentor Simon was more personal.

'I just want to say Mel, you have been an absolute pleasure to work with... I have seen this massive progression with you both as a person and a singer, I am so proud of you,' he said.

What followed was a tear-jerking video with all of Melanie's family members and friends sending their well-wishes in an emotional montage.


The gang: The four judges strutted onto the stage in their finest at the beginning of the live grand finale

Emotional night: The judges went through a range of different feelings throughout the show


Rene then followed Amaro, getting his croon on with the classic Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas.

The song made Nicole get up on her feet at the last note.

'You, no matter what; you are a star from the inside out... you are that voice, you are that hero!' she said, fighting back tears.

'Chris you are the most original, you have such a great style about you. You stylized a classic song and you made it Chris Rene style,' added Paula.

Taking to the stage: The final three are seen at the beginning of the show performing with the final 12


Simon reminded the 28-year-old what an inspiration he was to others, especially in such troubling times.

'Chris that was very very cool and I like you... you are truly an inspiration to a lot of guys out there,' he said. 'You are a man of your word... I admire you very much.'

Rene was also shown an emotionally charged video montage of his loved ones, which included messages from his sponsors, his mother, and his sister, who told him that his late father would be extremely proud.

Having a ball: They were clearly in high spirits for the performance


In a flood of tears, Rene, who has only just become eight months sober, could barely speak.

Last but not least was Kracjik, who belted out Please Comes Home For Christmas.

'You have been so good I have been lost for words,' L.A said of his performances over the last few weeks.


Winning best: Amaro sang Mariah Carey's All I Want For Christmas Is You for her opening song in the finale

Rock and bell: Kracjik belted out the classic Please Comes Home For Christmas


'You are such a joy, you are so wonderful. you affect all of our souls, your songs are magical,' Nicole added.

Simon was keen to point out just how well Kracjik represented the over-30's category.

'You represented this category so well,' he said. 'You have been a brilliant contestant and I have good news for you; you are going to sell millions of records.'

Crooner: Rene followed Amaro, getting his croon on with the classic Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas


Kracjik's video messages featured well-wishes from his girlfriend, his burrito shop co-workers and his father, who said he was particularly proud of his son.

Ahead of Amaro being crowned winner, as always Cowell put on a spectacular show.

The final 12 performed at the beginning of the live program, singing Lady Gaga's hit The Edge Of Glory.


Bieber fever: Headlining the star-studded guest list was Justin Bieber, who performed The Christmas Song

Legend: He was later joined on stage by the legendary Stevie Wonder


Reunited they put on an energetic show, with so much excitement that Amaro nearly fell off the stage as she walked down the stairs.

Headlining the star-studded guest list was Justin Bieber, who performed The Christmas Song along with the legendary Stevie Wonder.

Bieber then later surprised former X Factor contestant Drew Ryniewic, beckoning her onstage to conclude his rendition of Santa Claus Is Coming To Town.

Kisses and praise: Still gushing about the teen since first hearing her voice, Bieber reminded the audience of his faith in former X Factor contestant Drew Ryniewic, after she also joined him onstage for the performance


Still gushing about the teen, Bieber reminded the audience of his faith in Drew, following the performance.

'She is a very special girl and she will go far,' he said.

Simon also brought in his other protege, Leona Lewis, who has gone on to have massive success after winning the X Factor U.K in 2006.


Familiar face? Simon also brought in his other protege, Leona Lewis, who has gone on to have massive success after winning the X Factor U.K in 2006

Stunning: Looking stunning wearing a cowl neck gown and lashings of red lipstick, Leona sang her famous rendition of Run by Snow Patrol


Looking stunning wearing a cowl neck gown and lashings of red lipstick, she sang her famous rendition of Run by Snow Patrol.

Playing in the background was a montage of moments from the current U.S show, bringing some of the judges to tears.

Lucky former contestant Marcus Canty also did a duet with famed rappers Neyo & Pitbull.


Hip hop legend: 50 Cent took to the stage to perform with some scantily clad dancers

Confident: Former contestant Astro later took to the stage to rap alongside the East Coast legend


And quite possibly stealing the show was pint-sized rapper Astro, who confidently strode on stage to not only join rap legend 50 Cent, but also a slew of L.A Lakers players.

Keeping with a rap video theme, the boys were joined by scantily clad ladies dancing in bath tubs and writhing around couches and a grand piano.

Lucky: Former contestant Marcus Canty also did a duet with famed rappers Neyo & Pitbull


Unlike American Idol, the contest was open to both solo singers and groups, and had a lower minimum age of 12 and no upper age limit.

The judges also served as mentors.

Cowell represented female vocalists, including Amaro; L.A. Reid headed male singers, including Rene; Nicole Scherzinger was in charge of over-30 singers, including Krajcik; and Paula Abdul helmed the groups.


The clan: The final 12 takes to the stage to massive applause from the judges and audience members


Famous face: Actress Zoey Deschanel cheered on the contestants from the crowd





source:dailymail

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