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X Factor judge says the pressure is too much

The X Factor's Louis Walsh
  • Posted at 10:38am
  • 18 August 2009
  • by VincentGraff-RT
  • 7 comments

When Simon Cowell sat down to record the first audition for this year's X Factor, he looked rather glum, says fellow judge Louis Walsh. "It was in Glasgow. Simon wasn't himself, I don't know what was wrong with him. There was just no atmosphere." So what did Cowell, the undisputed king of TV talent, do later that day? "He went to the producers and changed the whole show."

Until now, X Factor participants have auditioned in a small room in front of a handful of people - the judges and the TV crew. In a split second on that dismal morning, Cowell decided that from now on they'll have to sing for the first time in front of a cheering - or jeering - audience. Cue a re-run of the audition in Glasgow and a whole new look to the show.

"When we walk out, there are 2,000 people behind us," says Walsh. "It's difficult for me, but it's definitely raised the bar of the show." And if it's difficult for Walsh, how hard must it be for the "ordinary" folk who want to become superstars?

Earlier this month, it emerged that one of the contestants on this year's X Factor suffers from Asperger's syndrome. Scott James, 21, told the judges that he didn't leave home for seven years because of the condition.

Scot stuns them with his voice. But viewers will be all too aware of the struggles faced by Scottish singer Susan Boyle following her appearances on Britain's Got Talent. So does Walsh think people like Scott can take the strain of appearing on The X Factor?

"I don't think they can, if I'm honest. People don't realise the pressure that these acts are under, especially when they're competing with everybody else backstage. It's a very difficult show to do, even as a judge. It's very gruelling, and it's ten weeks of very intense performance. Everything you say and do is being watched. It's like Big Brother meets Jerry Springer."

So is it fair on Scott to allow him to appear? "Nobody forces anybody to go to an audition. I think it's a real-life story. Is he under too much pressure? I think it has to be his choice."

But is it a fair choice? Does Scott know what he is letting himself in for? "Initially, no," admits Walsh. "I think it's a massive reality check for some people." X Factor viewers will have to watch the series to see how Scott gets on.

Is there too much pressure on X Factor contestants? Post a comment below and let us know.

**

Read the full interview, in which Louis shares his thoughts on fellow judge Simon Cowell, in the latest edition of Radio Times magazine, on sale now.

And don't forget to check out our exclusive behind-the-scenes gallery, with insights from Dannii Minogue.

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Comments

  • Posted on 23 August 2009
  • at 6:24pm
  • by Emz

Ok so the initial audition is now different, with the big audience, but if the person is any good and wishes to go all the way in that business, they have to get used to big crowds anyway. Like they say, no-one is forced to perform. If they're not up to it, they shouldn't put themselves up for it. As long as they take his illness into account and listen to his requirements, referring to the lights issue someone raised, and whatever else. If someone who had been confined to their home for 7 years at some point in their life, decides that they want to give it a go, that they feel able, then let them. It's their choice.

  • Posted on 22 August 2009
  • at 9:42pm
  • by A Reader

"I just hope they keep the blue lights away from the person with Asperger's."

Great tip! What are you waiting for, series promoters - order some flashing blue strobes. Pronto. We want dozens. Don't forget the dressing rooms!

  • Posted on 22 August 2009
  • at 9:40pm
  • by A London reader

Come on, drop the naivity. The whole X Factor 'show', just like other 're4ality' TV, is carefully constructed to maximise the potential for anyone 'unusual' to crack and generate the predictable tabloid frenzy.

Just like reality shows get their performers on the (very) cheap, so they get their publicty for next to nothing. Construct a spectacle from ridiculous would-be 'celebrities' and the weeks-long advertising pours in for nothing.

  • Posted on 21 August 2009
  • at 11:05am
  • by JanMcClury

I read the blog and immediately thought it would be better to be in the Colisseum in Rome but I see that Phil has drawn that analogy. My heart goes out to the Asperger's person and I do hope this is dealt with sensitively. A Glasgow audience is one of the toughest to crack in Britain. Many top people have gone to Glasgow and "died" on stage, with the punters baying for their blood! Yes, Rome all over again....

  • Posted on 19 August 2009
  • at 10:21pm
  • by Patrick

I got Asperger's and all i can say is good for him, if he wants to do it fine, every one on the Autism spectrum is diffrant and have thier own difficulty's and streangths & Weaknesses, if he talks about what might set him off and all and the planning goes well theirs nothing to fear, but yes thiers alot of stress on that show but we all cope with it in diffrant way's for him it might be the case that singing is his own world itself so it might not be as bad as some might think I gues we will see.

  • Posted on 19 August 2009
  • at 2:08pm
  • by Phil

Why don't they hold the auditions in the Coliseum in Rome. It would be more appropriate. I suppose nobody is forced to participate including Louis Walsh and the other judges. Just let Simon Cowell get on with making his millions by himself.

  • Posted on 18 August 2009
  • at 1:02pm
  • by Asperger

I just hope they keep the blue lights away from the person with Asperger's. Light sensitivity is a major part of our condition and if the wrong light is used in his performances his Asperger's will flare up. They have to make adjustments to suit him just like the would add a ramp for someone in a wheelchair. They seriously need to take care of his needs and not exploit his condition for ratings because its in the news right now. The Google view of this condition is wrong and we need support especially with the Autism Bill going through the Lords right now. This programme, if the abuse their position for ratings, will ruin it for us all. I for ne am not looking forward from the backlash if ITV and the Judges don't help him out.

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