The X Factor, a staple of UK television that once drew 19 million viewers, is reportedly being revived by ITV seven years after it was last broadcast. The talent show launched the careers of numerous artists, some of whom went on to achieve global superstardom, while others found success in different fields or faced significant challenges.
Chart-Topping Successes and Solo Ventures
One Direction, formed from solo contestants in 2010, stands as the show's most significant success. The boyband sold over 70 million records worldwide and won nearly 200 awards. After an indefinite hiatus in 2016, its members have pursued successful solo careers. Harry Styles has achieved massive global success with multiple Grammy Awards and sold-out stadium tours. Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, and Zayn Malik have also established solo careers, with Tomlinson selling out Madison Square Garden and Horan embarking on UK tours.
Little Mix, the first girl group to win The X Factor in 2011, also achieved considerable international fame, selling 50 million records and winning a BRIT Award for Best Group in 2021. Jesy Nelson departed the group in 2020 due to fame's pressures and mental health struggles. Jade Thirlwall, Perrie Edwards, and Leigh-Anne Pinnock continued as a trio before the band announced a hiatus in 2022. Jade Thirlwall has since won a solo Brit Award, and Nelson has campaigned for improved screening for SMA Type 1 after her twin daughters' diagnosis.
Alexandra Burke, winner in 2008, saw immediate success with her debut single 'Hallelujah' selling over a million copies in the UK. Her debut album produced two more number-one singles. Burke later transitioned to musical theatre, appearing in 'The Bodyguard' and 'Joseph And The Technicolour Dreamcoat,' and competed in 'Strictly Come Dancing' in 2017. She is currently starring in 'I'm Every Woman - The Chaka Khan Musical' in the West End.
Olly Murs, runner-up in 2009, has achieved over £30 million in record sales and had 18 Top 40 hits, including four number ones. He also served as a coach on 'The Voice' from 2017 to 2023. Murs recently announced a year-long break from touring to focus on his family, welcoming his second child in September 2025.
Presenters, Personalities, and Different Paths
Rylan Clark, known for his emotional reaction when reaching the live shows in 2011, has become a prominent television presenter in the UK. He has hosted shows like 'Big Brother's Bit On The Side,' 'This Morning,' and 'Ready Steady Cook,' and won a BAFTA in 2025 with Rob Rinder for their travel series. He also hosts a Saturday afternoon show on Radio 2.
Stacey Solomon, who finished third in 2009, has carved out a successful career as a media personality, presenter, and DIY expert. After winning 'I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!' in 2010, she became a panellist on 'Loose Women' and hosted the BBC show 'Sort Your Life Out,' for which she won National Television Awards in 2024 and 2025. Her business ventures have reportedly amassed a net worth of over £10 million.
Chico Slimane, a quarter-finalist in 2005, is remembered for his energetic performances and the hit single 'It's Chico Time.' After his initial music career did not reach greater heights, he launched a wellness retreat in Portugal and developed a fitness program called Block Fit. Slimane experienced a stroke in 2018 but made a full recovery. In 2026, he shared that he had recovered from financial ruin after being a victim of an investment scam.
Other Notables and Unique Journeys
Jedward, the Irish twins John and Edward Grimes, competed in 2009, finishing sixth. They released three albums, represented Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest twice, and have had television careers, including presenting children's shows and appearing on 'Celebrity Big Brother.' They have also voiced criticisms of the music industry and the show.
Wagner Fiuza-Carrilho, a memorable contestant from 2010 known for his distinctive style, made it to the quarter-finals as a wildcard. After attempting to launch a hair transplant business in Brazil, he returned to the UK. He made headlines in 2024 when he announced he was expecting a baby with his then-20-year-old girlfriend.
Honey G, whose real name is Anna Gilford, gained attention in 2016 for her unique rapping style and distinctive fashion. Although her music career did not achieve widespread success, she was reportedly dismissed from an estate agent job in 2018 after her employer expected her to give up music. She has since undergone a significant weight loss and style transformation.