X-What?

We all know I love British television. I grew up watching it and it just makes me smile. It's so absurd and offside - just like me!

I stopped watching American Idol seasons ago. The last memory I have of me watching it was with Teira on our couch re-naming contestants because we couldn't remember their real names. I thought I would never get behind another reality talent competition...that was until I discovered X-Factor. It's basically everything Simon Cowell wishes he could have done with American Idol, but wasn't allowed because it's in your face and would upset far too many conservatives. The songs are unique and upbeat and the contestants? Gosh, what can you say about them that would adequately define their characteristics. The costumes and dance moves are out of this world, but in a good way. It doesn't seem cheesy at all, which I love.

I started watching it because I was one of five Girls Aloud fans in Canada a few years back when they were thrown together through Pop Idol (I think..) and I think Cheryl Tweedy is fantastic. She handled the demise of her marriage with Ashley Cole in a way I never could (too much information? probably). Anyways, I'm a fan and with her, Simon, and Dani Minogue on the judging panel - I knew it would be a good season.

It works pretty much the same as American Idol, but the contestants are chosen by the judges through a stage known as the Judges' House. Basically, everyone's thrown together in one house and the judges decide who they want to mentor. Simon took on some absurd artist and Cheryl took on this 16 year old girl named Cher Llyod who could be her twin. Big hair, big lashes and an even bigger personality. This girl is going to be a star. As much as I want her to win, part of me wants her to be booted now so she can start recording her record. She reminds me a bit of Lady Sovereign, with some Cheryl Tweedy (Cole) and Britney Spears mixed in. I don't even think I can explain this girl. She's out of this world talented and has even gotten the attention of Jay-Z. He already wants to work on her record, promising Beyonce/Kanye/Rhianna as collaborators. How insane is that? She's 16. A few months ago she was thinking about working in a supermarket and now she's HUGE. Little Chezza!!!

Anyways, here are some Cher Llyod clips. I have the eps saved if you want them. Watch and be amazed.

http://perezhilton.com/category/cher-lloyd/

my fave performance: http://perezhilton.com/2010-10-24-cher-lloyd-performs-no-diggity-and-shot-live-on-xfacto