Exclusive: Curb Your Enthusiasm‘s Jeff Garlin is set to star opposite Wendi McLendon-Covey in ABC’s single-camera comedy pilot How the Hell Am I Normal, written by Adam Goldberg and to be directed by Seth Gordon. Also cast in the project, inspired by Goldberg’s experience growing up in the ’80s with a highly screwed up but loving family, is Hayley Orrantia. How The Hell Am I Normal is a family comedy set in the ’80s that centers on in-your-face mother Beverly (McLendon-Covey) and hot-tempered father Murray (Garlin) who love their three eccentric kids so much, they can’t bear to see them grow up. Gruff but loveable, for Murray calling you a “moron” is how he parents. A rageaholic, Murray struggles to stay calm after his last heart attack upon a stern warning by his doctor. In her first TV gig, Orrantia will play Beverly and Murray’s daughter Erica,...
- 1/29/2013
- by NELLIE ANDREEVA
- Deadline TV
I didn’t take it too seriously when Britney Spears’ name first surfaced as a possible replacement for exiting judges/mentors Nicole Scherzinator and Paula Abdul on The X Factor. After all, the pop diva isn’t exactly renown for singing live. And what’s more, she conducted much of the promotion for her last record, 2011′s Femme Fatale, via email, incurring the wrath of talk-show emcee (and subsequent The Voice host) Carson Daly when her management team insisted they be allowed to approve and edit a pre-taped interview with the “Womanizer” singer.
Apparently, though, massive name recognition is trumping...
Apparently, though, massive name recognition is trumping...
- 3/9/2012
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
Hot on the heels of a real tragedy, sources close to The X Factor say that judge Nicole Scherzinger will join host Steve Jones in their expulsion from the harsh, red galaxy. Nicole will not return for season 2, having received Simon Cowell’s blessing to go forth — far, far, away… no, no, a little farther… please, love, if you could just keep walking — and work on her music.
Since turning my “I love Steve Jones” post inside out and doing “10 Things I Won’t Miss About Nicole Scherzinger” seemed a bit cruel, here’s a benign roundup of some of...
Since turning my “I love Steve Jones” post inside out and doing “10 Things I Won’t Miss About Nicole Scherzinger” seemed a bit cruel, here’s a benign roundup of some of...
- 1/31/2012
- by Annie Barrett
- EW.com - PopWatch
What a fabulous night The X Factor finale brought this week! What a satisfying win! Along with finally crowning the winner of this competition (the winner of which had the title in the bag from the moment they auditioned), the final twelve returned to the stage as well as some big names including Justin Bieber and Leona Lewis. Not only that, the show got into the Christmas spirit, which brought the night’s high even higher!
The final twelve opened the finale with Lady Gaga’s “Edge of Glory” and there were actually more faces that were not missed than missed. Looking back, the right people definitely made it to the finals. During the performance, we discovered that Drew has become a brunette. Whether or not she is as stylish as she thinks, she has some growing up to do in general before taking on a $5 million responsibility. So, as much as we love her,...
The final twelve opened the finale with Lady Gaga’s “Edge of Glory” and there were actually more faces that were not missed than missed. Looking back, the right people definitely made it to the finals. During the performance, we discovered that Drew has become a brunette. Whether or not she is as stylish as she thinks, she has some growing up to do in general before taking on a $5 million responsibility. So, as much as we love her,...
- 12/23/2011
- by Melody Simpson
- BuzzFocus.com
If you need a reminder that there is hope for humanity this holiday season, look no further than the line of people waiting to get into Thursday night’s finale of The X Factor. Standing behind me: two-thirds of the miles-more-interesting-than-inTENsity, tight-fitting-pants aficionados the Anser. (Yes, their pants remain as snug as ever.) Standing in front of me: All of Chris Rene’s family, who, since we’re on the subject, are quite the fashionable bunch themselves. With only 45 minutes left until the show was live to the East Coast, the line was unusually long, and moving at a snail...
- 12/23/2011
- by Adam B. Vary
- EW.com - PopWatch
"The X Factor" just wrapped its first season and we know it's coming back next fall. So we have a few cheers and a few jeers about what the show did well and what the show needs to improve upon for next year.
What Worked
Hollywood Week
Actually pre-setting the groups and giving them vocal and dancing coaches was a stroke of genius. The Hollywood Week of "Idol" may be kind of fun because it's a hot mess, but honestly, we actually liked seeing the groups do well and make the eliminations hard on the judges. -- Andrea Reiher
Allowing Original Performances
Too often singing competitions turn into karaoke competitions with better backing tracks. But what made "The X Factor" interesting were the periodic original songs -- specifically those by Brian "Astro" Bradley and Chris Rene. They broke up the predictability of the show and also demonstrated that contestants have real creative talent,...
What Worked
Hollywood Week
Actually pre-setting the groups and giving them vocal and dancing coaches was a stroke of genius. The Hollywood Week of "Idol" may be kind of fun because it's a hot mess, but honestly, we actually liked seeing the groups do well and make the eliminations hard on the judges. -- Andrea Reiher
Allowing Original Performances
Too often singing competitions turn into karaoke competitions with better backing tracks. But what made "The X Factor" interesting were the periodic original songs -- specifically those by Brian "Astro" Bradley and Chris Rene. They broke up the predictability of the show and also demonstrated that contestants have real creative talent,...
- 12/23/2011
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
Stacy Francis brought drama to The X Factor stage right from her audition — a tear streaked rendition of “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” — all the way to her final moments on the stage (a tense judges’ vote on whether to cut her, or petulant rapper Astro). TVLine caught up with Season 1′s 10th place finisher to ask her about controversy over the way her backstory was presented on the show, her personal take on the right time to go for a glory note, and whether or not she thinks she’s cut out to be a pop star.
- 12/5/2011
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
Tonight, on The X Factor results show, we are saying goodbye to two more contestants.
For everyone who forgot to vote for Lakoda Rayne, I tell you with a heavy heart (sarcastic comment) that they have already been sent home. You all get an A for effort, though.
The Final 7 - "Man in the Mirror"
Things start off super shaky with Drew. Josh picks things up, thankfully. The smaller the group gets, the better the harmony sounds when these performances come around.
Okay, kiddos! You know what time it is. I suppose this would be the time that you could refer to last night's recap, because it is Montage Time! Please, hold back your excitement.
For everyone who forgot to vote for Lakoda Rayne, I tell you with a heavy heart (sarcastic comment) that they have already been sent home. You all get an A for effort, though.
The Final 7 - "Man in the Mirror"
Things start off super shaky with Drew. Josh picks things up, thankfully. The smaller the group gets, the better the harmony sounds when these performances come around.
Okay, kiddos! You know what time it is. I suppose this would be the time that you could refer to last night's recap, because it is Montage Time! Please, hold back your excitement.
- 12/1/2011
- by editor@buddytv.com
- buddytv.com
“Paula Abdul is no longer a mentor,” a practically giddy Steve Jones informed us at the top of this week’s X Factor Top 7 performance show. But Strong Chin With Devastating Cheekbones (clad in double-breasted gray pinstripes!?!?) didn’t realize that his nemesis at the judges’ table wasn’t destroyed by last week’s ouster of Lakoda Rayne, but rather freed up to launch a sold-out tour of Cirque du Abdul: ¡Gobbledygook!
Indeed, Michael Jackson Week found Paula trotting out some of her loopiest critiques of the season, telling wee rapper Astro that he didn’t just represent our future,...
Indeed, Michael Jackson Week found Paula trotting out some of her loopiest critiques of the season, telling wee rapper Astro that he didn’t just represent our future,...
- 12/1/2011
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
One writer makes the case for why you should be watching Simon Cowell's latest import.
By Gil Kaufman, with additional reporting by Jim Cantiello
"X Factor" judge Simon Cowell
Photo: Ian Derry / Fox
Imagine a reality competition that mixes the drama of "Dancing With the Stars," the variety-show feel of "America's Got Talent," the weekly singing battles of "American Idol" and the cutthroat competition between celebrity judges of "The Voice." That would be amazing, right?
Well, guess what? It exists, and it's called "The X Factor." But chances are you're not watching it. Simon Cowell's bid to make "Factor" the new "Idol" hasn't taken off as quickly as he brashly predicted earlier this year. The show is pulling in a solid 9-plus million viewers per night, which is about half of the 20 million Simon promised. But Nielsen recently reported that the strong ratings helped the Fox Network — which...
By Gil Kaufman, with additional reporting by Jim Cantiello
"X Factor" judge Simon Cowell
Photo: Ian Derry / Fox
Imagine a reality competition that mixes the drama of "Dancing With the Stars," the variety-show feel of "America's Got Talent," the weekly singing battles of "American Idol" and the cutthroat competition between celebrity judges of "The Voice." That would be amazing, right?
Well, guess what? It exists, and it's called "The X Factor." But chances are you're not watching it. Simon Cowell's bid to make "Factor" the new "Idol" hasn't taken off as quickly as he brashly predicted earlier this year. The show is pulling in a solid 9-plus million viewers per night, which is about half of the 20 million Simon promised. But Nielsen recently reported that the strong ratings helped the Fox Network — which...
- 12/1/2011
- MTV Music News
'The X Factor': On the scene for the Jackson family invasion. Or: Prince Jackson, spit out your gum!
It’s been a while since I last stepped into The X Factor’s Cylon basestar Galaga rollerderby Xanadome, so maybe it’s normal to see Breaking Bad’s Aaron Paul milling outside the studio with a pregnant Kaitlin Olsen of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. I’m just saying that that is at least three orders of magnitude of pop-culture coolness higher than pretty much any celebrity that’s come within spitting distance of the Idoldome. Maybe Paul and Olsen were tipped off that the Jackson dynasty would be plopping the late Michael Jackson’s children into the...
- 12/1/2011
- by Adam B. Vary
- EW.com - PopWatch
X Factor USA said goodbye to LeRoy Bell and the last of the groups Lakoda Rayne in a dramatic double elimination last week. With another double elimination coming up on Thursday night, the pressure was undoubtedly on for the remaining seven acts when they took to the stage tonight for their latest live performance under the watchful eyes of the Jackson family, including Michael Jackson's three children... (more)...
- 12/1/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
Even though they were eliminated on the eve of last week's holiday, the spirit of Thanksgiving has clearly gotten through to the members of Lakoda Rayne and singer LeRoy Bell, who all shared positive words about their X Factor experiences on a press conference call yesterday.
"I enjoyed myself very much. [The younger singers in the competition] are good kids. I didn't really look at it as a competition," LeRoy, 60, told reporters on Tuesday. "I know a lot of people were asking 'Who is your biggest competition?' but I didn't view the experience that way."
Dani Knights of the group Lakoda Rayne, who began as four solo auditioners, said, "There definitely is a future for us together. It's not something we're just going to let fade out. We were put together for a reason and we feel like it was fate. Yeah, we wouldn't want it any other way but to be in a group and make music together.
"I enjoyed myself very much. [The younger singers in the competition] are good kids. I didn't really look at it as a competition," LeRoy, 60, told reporters on Tuesday. "I know a lot of people were asking 'Who is your biggest competition?' but I didn't view the experience that way."
Dani Knights of the group Lakoda Rayne, who began as four solo auditioners, said, "There definitely is a future for us together. It's not something we're just going to let fade out. We were put together for a reason and we feel like it was fate. Yeah, we wouldn't want it any other way but to be in a group and make music together.
- 11/30/2011
- by editor@buddytv.com
- buddytv.com
X Factor USA group Lakoda Rayne have said they are excited about what the future will bring for them. The country-pop quartet, who were mentored by Paula Abdul on the Fox competition, were sent home last week in a double elimination that also saw LeRoy Bell leave the show. Speaking to reporters on a conference call, group member Dani Knights said: "There definitely is a future for us together. It's not something we will let fade out. We were put together for a reason and we feel like it was fate. "We wouldn't want it any other way than to be in a group and make music together." Lakoda Rayne were pieced together by judges Simon Cowell, La Reid, Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger after initially auditioning as solo singers. Hayley Orrantia said: "There aren't many groups out there right (more)...
- 11/30/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
X Factor USA's last remaining group Lakoda Rayne have said that they "became sisters" throughout the competition. The quartet were grouped together by the judges after initially auditioning as solo acts, and made it to the Top 9 stage of the competition before being sent home alongside LeRoy Bell in a double elimination last week. Speaking to reporters on a conference call, singer Hayley Orrantia said: "A lot of people expected a manufactured group to not be as successful because we were thrown together and had such a little amount of time working together, but we actually came together really well, became best friends and sisters. "I know people think it's a cliché thing to say but it's true. We laugh like sisters, we argue like sisters, and I think it worked out so well that we don't want to be apart from each other." (more)...
- 11/30/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
With the stakes raised on Wednesday's double elimination show, X Factor viewers said goodbye to two contestants, leaving seven acts remaining. Crooner LeRoy Bell, 60, and Lakoda Rayne, the last remaining group, were sent packing, leaving Simon Cowell to single out Nicole Scherzinger's mentee Josh Krajcik as "the one I've always said I fear the most." "Last night, he became the artist that he should be in the real world," notes Cowell, whose girls Drew, Melanie Amaro and Rachel Crow are still in the competition. As for the acts sent home, LeRoy Bell called his elimination "just another step," while...
- 11/25/2011
- by Aili Nahas
- PEOPLE.com
X Factor USA group Lakoda Rayne have admitted they were unhappy at host Steve Jones's comment immediately following their elimination from the show. After revealing that the results of the public vote had sent Lakoda Rayne home on Wednesday night, the host turned to the group and said "the dream is over", although they quickly insisted on air that was not true. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter backstage, singer Paige Elizabeth said: "I took what Steve said a little bit personally, I found it offensive. "The dream is over? That was inappropriate. You don't say stuff like that. That's why I like ninja-gripped the microphone." However, the group's mentor Paula Abdul pointed out that the nature of live television means that things don't always run smoothly and defended Jones - who described (more)...
- 11/24/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
X Factor USA judge Paula Abdul has predicted Lakoda Rayne will continue to enjoy success beyond the show. The girlband, who were Abdul's last remaining group in the competition, were eliminated on Wednesday night's double elimination episode after it was revealed they had polled the least public votes. Writing on her Twitter account, the judge said: "I am absolutely Beaming over what @LakodaRayne has accomplished, how wonderfully they've grown. Their journey is just beginning... "I am So Blessed to have all of you in my life. You are So generous w/ the time you have spent supporting me & my girls @LakodaRayne xoP (sic)" She added: "This is a time to #celebrate this amazing new beginning for @LakodaRayne love them even more tonight. I know I do!" In a separate message to Lakoda Rayne, she acknowledged their thanks (more)...
- 11/24/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
X Factor USA group Lakoda Rayne have admitted that they "weren't really expecting" to be eliminated following their Thanksgiving week performance. The last remaining group in the competition, mentored by Paula Abdul, performed 'You Belong With Me' by Taylor Swift on Tuesday night's live show, dedicating the track to their families and boyfriends. However, they were sent home in Wednesday night's double elimination when it was revealed they had polled the lowest number of public votes. In an interview with the official website after their exit, group member Cari Fletcher said: "To be honest, we weren't really expecting it. Last night was definitely one of our best performances and we finally felt like we were coming into our own and really figuring out where we were supposed to be. "It's disappointing (more)...
- 11/24/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
X Factor USA group Lakoda Rayne have admitted that they "weren't really expecting" to be eliminated following their Thanksgiving week performance. The last remaining group in the competition, mentored by Paula Abdul, performed 'You Belong With Me' by Taylor Swift on Tuesday night's live show, dedicating the track to their families and boyfriends. However, they were sent home in Wednesday night's double elimination when it was revealed they had polled the lowest number of public votes. In an interview with the official website after their exit, group member Cari Fletcher said: "To be honest, we weren't really expecting it. Last night was definitely one of our best performances and we finally felt like we were coming into our own and really figuring out where we were supposed to be. "It's disappointing (more)...
- 11/24/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
Shirley Halperin
X Factor’s Simon Cowell says girl group Lakoda Rayne, which he along with fellow judges L.A. Reid, Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger created when it paired bootcamp finalists Dani Knights, Cari Fletcher, Paige Elizabeth and Hayley Orrantia, was voted off the competition for being "too pretty." “It's a problem I've had all my life,” he joked following Wednesday’s elimination show. But in all seriousness, he blamed the group members’ looks for their exit. “Girls didn’t like them,” Cowell said. “Groups are always difficult but I think someone like Drew is very good in that she speaks to
read more...
X Factor’s Simon Cowell says girl group Lakoda Rayne, which he along with fellow judges L.A. Reid, Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger created when it paired bootcamp finalists Dani Knights, Cari Fletcher, Paige Elizabeth and Hayley Orrantia, was voted off the competition for being "too pretty." “It's a problem I've had all my life,” he joked following Wednesday’s elimination show. But in all seriousness, he blamed the group members’ looks for their exit. “Girls didn’t like them,” Cowell said. “Groups are always difficult but I think someone like Drew is very good in that she speaks to
read more...
- 11/24/2011
- by Shirley Halperin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Lakoda Rayne and LeRoy Bell have become the fourth and fifth acts from to be eliminated from the Top 12 of X Factor USA's first season. Girl group Lakoda Rayne were eliminated during the opening moments of Wednesday night's live results show after it was revealed that they had scored the lowest number of public votes. "The dream is not over," they said following their exit. "There's still a lot ahead for our group in the future." Falling into the bottom two during the latter half of the show were Bell and Marcus Canty, with both singers performing again for judges Simon Cowell, La Reid, Nicole Scherzinger and Paula Abdul with the hope of remaining in the competition. > 'X Factor' USA poll results: Josh Krajcik storms Thanksgiving show
> 'The X Factor' USA: Top 9 (more)...
> 'The X Factor' USA: Top 9 (more)...
- 11/24/2011
- by By Jennifer Still
- Digital Spy
Some people wait a lifetime for a moment like winning a reality singing competition and becoming a global music superstar (please pardon the Kelly Clarkson paraphrase). Others wind up respectively landing in eight and ninth place, which doesn’t quite have the same confetti-from-the-rafters, loved-ones-crying-tears-of-joy, celebratory ring to it.
Alas, though, that’s the “reality” part of being on a reality show, and this week’s installment of The X Factor was all about the cruel business of sending two acts back home – on the worst travel day of the year (¡!), while outfitted in bizarre circus garb (the result of...
Alas, though, that’s the “reality” part of being on a reality show, and this week’s installment of The X Factor was all about the cruel business of sending two acts back home – on the worst travel day of the year (¡!), while outfitted in bizarre circus garb (the result of...
- 11/24/2011
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
Lakoda Rayne,LeRoy Bell eliminated from 'X Factor' in the finals tonight round 4. Tonight's double elimination show kicked off with past American Idol, champ Kelly Clarkson singing her song called, "Stronger." Then they showed recap footage from last night's performances show to lead into the first break. After the break, all the final 9 contestants hit the stage to perform a song. Then host Steve Jones revealed that Lakoda Rayne got the lowest number of votes this week,so they were eliminated,immediately. They showed the girl's video montage,and then sent them packing. Steve also revealed that Drew was safe this week to lead into the break. After the break, singing star Bruno Mars hit the stage to sing his song titled, "Rain." After that,the judges walked out onto the stage with their contestants. Then Steve revealed that Chris Rene,Rachel Crow,and Josh Krajcik were safe...
- 11/24/2011
- by Andre
- OnTheFlix
After a group performance, "The X Factor" jumped right into the eliminations by bringing Drew Ryniewicz and Lakoda Rayne front and center. We were pretty sure it wasn't going to be Drew going home, but we were relieved when Lakoda Rayne's name was announced.
Lakoda Rayne was Ok on the show, but I thought their time had come. I'm very interested to see what happens with Paula after this - does she just sit there and judge like normal?
After Lakoda Rayne was eliminated as the lowest vote-getter, the final two were revealed to be Marcus and LeRoy. Nooooo! You have got to be kidding me. I'm so surprised that Astro is not in the bottom.
Both fellows sing for their lives and then the judges vote. Personally, I think LeRoy did more for his case during the sing-for-your-life part, but we'll see. Obviously, L.A. and Nicole vote for their respective group members,...
Lakoda Rayne was Ok on the show, but I thought their time had come. I'm very interested to see what happens with Paula after this - does she just sit there and judge like normal?
After Lakoda Rayne was eliminated as the lowest vote-getter, the final two were revealed to be Marcus and LeRoy. Nooooo! You have got to be kidding me. I'm so surprised that Astro is not in the bottom.
Both fellows sing for their lives and then the judges vote. Personally, I think LeRoy did more for his case during the sing-for-your-life part, but we'll see. Obviously, L.A. and Nicole vote for their respective group members,...
- 11/24/2011
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
X Factor USA contestants Lakoda Rayne have thanked Taylor Swift for inspiring them as a group. The last-remaining group in the competition, who are being mentored by Paula Abdul, performed Swift's track 'You Belong With Me' on last night's Top 9 performance show. In a video message to Swift posted online, group member Cari Fletcher said: "We just wanted to thank you for being such an amazing inspiration and mentor for us as a group. We have looked up to you ever since we were little girls." Paige Elizabeth added: "You got me through some hard times with your music." Lakoda Rayne also spoke about why they performed a Swift song on Twitter, telling followers: "We picked Taylor Swift because she is such a grateful and grounded artist and that's exactly what we want to portray." (more)...
- 11/23/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
We're already down to the Top 9 on X Factor USA and it's a Thanksgiving-themed show! Not only that, but this week the competition is even tighter as two acts will be eliminated during Wednesday night's live results show! With judges Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, Nicole Scherzinger and La Reid looking for the next big thing, who will impress and who will come up short? Can 14-year-old Astro redeem himself after last week's bad behaviour? Will Paula finally lose her last group in Lakoda Rayne? Stick with Digital Spy live from 8/7c to find out! 21:58 Well, that's it - all nine acts have sung and now it's up to the voters to decide which two will be headed tomorrow. Who will it be? Tune in at 8/7c to find out! 21:50 Last but certainly not least, Josh Krajcik is up and he's grateful for his 13-year-old (more)...
- 11/23/2011
- by By Jennifer Still
- Digital Spy
Paula Abdul has insisted that Lakoda Rayne are destined for success beyond The X Factor USA. While the girl group have previously fallen into the bottom two, panellist Abdul said that she is not concerned about Lakoda Rayne's chances during this week's double elimination as she believes that their talent speaks for itself. "I am most proud of Lakoda Rayne. These girls, besides being beautiful singers and beautiful aesthetically, they are gorgeous dynamic women," Abdul explained to E Online. "I can't even (more)...
- 11/23/2011
- by By Jennifer Still
- Digital Spy
The last two weeks of "The X Factor" have offered a whipsaw of emotions for the country pop quartet Lakoda Rayne.
It was just Nov. 10 that the group found themselves in the bottom two singing simply to stay in the competition. Only seven days later, Paige Elizabeth, Cari Fletcher, Dani Knights and Hayley Orrantia were considered "safe" almost immediately.
"It's was huge difference to go from being in the bottom two to being one of the first people called, even if it's in no particular order," says Orrantia.
But coming off the previous week, the women of Lakoda Rayne certainly were on edge. The prospect of being up for elimination had them practicing a tune repeatedly just in case they had to perform again.
"We were not very secure when we were out on that stage because of the week prior," Knight says. "I think all of us thought there...
It was just Nov. 10 that the group found themselves in the bottom two singing simply to stay in the competition. Only seven days later, Paige Elizabeth, Cari Fletcher, Dani Knights and Hayley Orrantia were considered "safe" almost immediately.
"It's was huge difference to go from being in the bottom two to being one of the first people called, even if it's in no particular order," says Orrantia.
But coming off the previous week, the women of Lakoda Rayne certainly were on edge. The prospect of being up for elimination had them practicing a tune repeatedly just in case they had to perform again.
"We were not very secure when we were out on that stage because of the week prior," Knight says. "I think all of us thought there...
- 11/22/2011
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
Astro, Astro, Astro! That's all anyone who watches The X Factor seems to be talking about since the young rapper had a meltdown of sorts during last week's results show, almost quitting the competition in the process. But something else they're talking about? Paula Abdul's chances for survival, considering she only has one group, Lakoda Rayne, left in the running. So what did Abdul think of Astro's mini-meltdown last week? And what will happen to her if Lakoda is booted from the competition? More: Live at X Factor: Stacy Francis "Confused" by Astro's Behavior, Calls Him "Ungracious" It was the meltdown that caused an entire viewership's jaws to drop,...
- 11/22/2011
- E! Online
2011 is going to be quite an unusual Thanksgiving experience for The X Factor Top 9. On top of missing their traditional family gatherings they’re going to have to perform like they’ve never perfromed before in order to survive the double elimination on Wednesday night. As Astro, Chris, Drew, Josh, Lakoda Rayne, LeRoy, Marcus, Melanie, and Rachel prepare to show their “Thanks” in song this week, we thought it would be interesting to find out what home-cooked Thanksgiving foods they’re going to be thinking about the most . Check it out!
So our question to you…. If you could have any X Factor contestant over for Thanksgiving – who would it be and why? Tell us! Then make sure to tune in to The X Factor tonight for some gratitude infused performances at 8Pm Et/Pt on Fox and remember to Vote! Because Two contestants are going to be eliminated tomorrow,...
So our question to you…. If you could have any X Factor contestant over for Thanksgiving – who would it be and why? Tell us! Then make sure to tune in to The X Factor tonight for some gratitude infused performances at 8Pm Et/Pt on Fox and remember to Vote! Because Two contestants are going to be eliminated tomorrow,...
- 11/22/2011
- by foxallaccess
- Fox All Access
Two contestants will go home on Wednesday's results episode.
By Adam Graham
Astro on "X Factor"
Photo: Fox
Teen rapper Astro addressed his blow-up last week and promised to not let his fans down again during Tuesday's (November 22) performance episode of "The X Factor," which found the competition's top nine contestants dedicating their performances to special people in their lives.
Astro, the 15-year-old Brooklyn rapper who had a near meltdown and almost refused to perform after landing in the bottom two on last week's results episode, explained in a pre-packaged introduction he "didn't know how to control my emotions" last week and he "could have handled it better." He then went on to address the situation further in an original song he performed set to Jay-z's "Show Me What You Got," in which he rapped, "Got my head in the right place and I'm back to win."
Before the judges weighed in on his song,...
By Adam Graham
Astro on "X Factor"
Photo: Fox
Teen rapper Astro addressed his blow-up last week and promised to not let his fans down again during Tuesday's (November 22) performance episode of "The X Factor," which found the competition's top nine contestants dedicating their performances to special people in their lives.
Astro, the 15-year-old Brooklyn rapper who had a near meltdown and almost refused to perform after landing in the bottom two on last week's results episode, explained in a pre-packaged introduction he "didn't know how to control my emotions" last week and he "could have handled it better." He then went on to address the situation further in an original song he performed set to Jay-z's "Show Me What You Got," in which he rapped, "Got my head in the right place and I'm back to win."
Before the judges weighed in on his song,...
- 11/22/2011
- MTV Music News
Lakoda Rayne have revealed that they are singing a track by one of their favorite artists on tonight's (Tuesday) X Factor USA live show. X Factor's Top 9 acts will each take to the stage tonight in a Thanksgiving-themed episode, in the hopes of earning enough public votes to avoid tomorrow night's double elimination. Speaking to fans in a Ustream chat this week, group member Cari Fletcher said: "We have an awesome production and some cool things going on. The artist we are singing is definitely a big favorite of ours and we're really excited to perform for you guys." Abdul, who joined the group for the Ustream talk, added: "I know you all want to know what song they will be singing... Let me see if I can give you a clue... "It's someone that is pretty much doing a great job and in the last 24 hours won lots of awards!
- 11/22/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
Plus: Nicole Scherzinger's Over 30's step it up after Stacy Francis' ouster.
By Jim Cantiello
Astro on "X Factor"
Photo: Fox
MTV News' own Jim Cantiello is exclusively covering "The X Factor" rehearsals. Read on for his fly-on-the-wall backstage report!
We're five weeks into the "X Factor" live shows, and sleep deprivation has finally caught up with everyone. Not just the contestants, mind you, but the crew too. With Thanksgiving shifting the production schedule up a day, Team X has been working for almost two weeks straight without a day off. During rehearsals, contestants are cramming in this week's performances as well as next week's songs to allow for a day or two off this holiday week — not to mention a double elimination looming over everyone's heads.
And you thought last week's Astro drama was intense.
Speaking of 'Stro, the young Mc is ready to accept any backlash...
By Jim Cantiello
Astro on "X Factor"
Photo: Fox
MTV News' own Jim Cantiello is exclusively covering "The X Factor" rehearsals. Read on for his fly-on-the-wall backstage report!
We're five weeks into the "X Factor" live shows, and sleep deprivation has finally caught up with everyone. Not just the contestants, mind you, but the crew too. With Thanksgiving shifting the production schedule up a day, Team X has been working for almost two weeks straight without a day off. During rehearsals, contestants are cramming in this week's performances as well as next week's songs to allow for a day or two off this holiday week — not to mention a double elimination looming over everyone's heads.
And you thought last week's Astro drama was intense.
Speaking of 'Stro, the young Mc is ready to accept any backlash...
- 11/22/2011
- MTV Music News
And then there were nine. Yes, folks, with Stacy Francis’ ouster during last week’s ridiculously dramatic results show, we’re down to the single digits in acts competing for The X Factor Season 1 crown.
Check out my rankings for the remaining contestants, then hit our poll to vote for your favorite!
9) Leroy Bell (Last Week No. 8 ) | His take on “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” was solid, but World’s Sexiest Grandpa practically put us to sleep with, um, uh…anyone else remember what dude sang last week?
8 ) Astro (Last Week No. 3) | Just when the...
Check out my rankings for the remaining contestants, then hit our poll to vote for your favorite!
9) Leroy Bell (Last Week No. 8 ) | His take on “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” was solid, but World’s Sexiest Grandpa practically put us to sleep with, um, uh…anyone else remember what dude sang last week?
8 ) Astro (Last Week No. 3) | Just when the...
- 11/21/2011
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
Filed under: Recaps
America and 'The X Factor' completely defied my expectations on Thursday night. When Steve Jones announced that the first two acts safe this week were the aggressively mediocre Lakoda Rayne and LeRoy Bell, it became apparent that there would be no predicting this week's results.
Still, with so many fan-favorite acts apparently in danger of elimination, the episode provided far more tension than I was anticipating this early in the game, when it seemed that all of the groups would be wiped out before the solo artists would have their turn on the chopping block.
The third act to be eliminated by America and the judges was:
Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments...
America and 'The X Factor' completely defied my expectations on Thursday night. When Steve Jones announced that the first two acts safe this week were the aggressively mediocre Lakoda Rayne and LeRoy Bell, it became apparent that there would be no predicting this week's results.
Still, with so many fan-favorite acts apparently in danger of elimination, the episode provided far more tension than I was anticipating this early in the game, when it seemed that all of the groups would be wiped out before the solo artists would have their turn on the chopping block.
The third act to be eliminated by America and the judges was:
Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments...
- 11/17/2011
- by Laura Prudom
- Aol TV.
It was Rock Week on 'The X Factor!' Who do You think deserves to stay? The top 10 brought their all on The X Factor Nov. 16, but not everyone sang to their full potential. I thought Astro and Josh Krajcik stepped up their their game from last week, but Stacy Francis and even my favorite, Rachel Crow, were less than stellar. Overall, hearing the mentors' song choices was interesting because it felt like the majority of them weren't really rock. For example, I was obsessed with Astro's "I'll Be Missing You" by Puff Daddy, but was that Really rock? I think not. Meanwhile, Rachel sang "Satisfaction" by the Rolling Stones, which was fantastic, but a little "Disney-esque." At the end of the day, it wasn't my favorite performance by her. The rockiest song I heard tonight was Josh's rendition of "The Pretender" by The Foo Fighters, which earned...
- 11/17/2011
- by Kirstin Benson
- HollywoodLife
The curiously addicting headache that is The X Factor has taken some heat for its lack of originality, and for good reason. But there’s one thing X has that that other overproduced Fox reality singing competition lacks — detailed instructions on how to use Twitter on its very own website. Or, since this is a show with a relatively high concentration of British people, how to use Twittah on its very own website. Fans can tweet their votes via a direct message to @TheXFactorUSA, and even follow the dastardly deeds of Lakoda Rayne if they’re so inclined. So simple!
- 11/17/2011
- by Shaunna Murphy
- EW.com - PopWatch
The Stereo Hogzz got the boot from "The X Factor" this week, making them the second group in a row sent home. But the quintet from Houston doesn't seem bitter about leaving the show so early in the final rounds.
"At this point, we pretty much ... came and accomplished our goals," group member Trae Badd (aka George Jenkins III) told reporters Friday (Nov. 11). "We felt like if the Stereo Hogzz got to go live to America, we'd be all right. We actually got to do it several times. So at this point, we'll just start making music and just start grinding, the old-fashioned way.
"We've got a lot of doors opening for us. We could barely get out of the building once they told us no [before offers started coming in]. We're taking everything in stride and trying to come up with a good game plan."
More thoughts from the Hogzz on their elimination, their...
"At this point, we pretty much ... came and accomplished our goals," group member Trae Badd (aka George Jenkins III) told reporters Friday (Nov. 11). "We felt like if the Stereo Hogzz got to go live to America, we'd be all right. We actually got to do it several times. So at this point, we'll just start making music and just start grinding, the old-fashioned way.
"We've got a lot of doors opening for us. We could barely get out of the building once they told us no [before offers started coming in]. We're taking everything in stride and trying to come up with a good game plan."
More thoughts from the Hogzz on their elimination, their...
- 11/11/2011
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
Host Steve Jones has confessed that he felt "upset" after seeing Paula Abdul break down on The X Factor USA. Abdul was visibly upset during Thursday night's results show after her two remaining groups, Lakoda Rayne and Stereo Hogzz, fell into the bottom two. She initially claimed that she would abstain from the vote as she could not choose between the acts but was eventually forced to choose Lakoda Rayne as the act to send home when she learned that a failure to vote would seal eventual eliminees Stereo Hogzz's fate on the show. "I feel terrible I was complicit in that meltdown. I was upset. I don't want to see Paula like that. I know she's a professional but I am too and my job is to get an answer from her," Jones explained to MTV News. "And if I can't get an answer, then she abstains, and I move on.
- 11/11/2011
- by By Jennifer Still
- Digital Spy
It's time to find out which act will leave "The X Factor" after the Top 11 results show. Nine of the acts are safe and the two left to sing for their supper, so to speak, are Lakoda Rayne and the Stereo Hogzz. So Paula is not doing terribly well so far as a mentor, but I really don't think it's her fault.
At this point, I hope Lakoda Rayne goes home. I think the Stereo Hogzz are so much better as an act, I don't understand how they were in the Bottom 2 two weeks in a row.
For the sing-for-your-life portion, Lakoda Rayne sings "No Air" and it's .... hmmm. There are nice moments. But it's not their best performance. Frankly, these girls just aren't a "group." Their four soloists smushed together and clearly the American voters don't like group acts.
Stereo Hogzz do "You Are Not Alone," which is nice.
At this point, I hope Lakoda Rayne goes home. I think the Stereo Hogzz are so much better as an act, I don't understand how they were in the Bottom 2 two weeks in a row.
For the sing-for-your-life portion, Lakoda Rayne sings "No Air" and it's .... hmmm. There are nice moments. But it's not their best performance. Frankly, these girls just aren't a "group." Their four soloists smushed together and clearly the American voters don't like group acts.
Stereo Hogzz do "You Are Not Alone," which is nice.
- 11/11/2011
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
Filed under: Recaps
As predicted, the systematic wipe-out of the groups continued on 'The X Factor' tonight, with The Stereo Hogzz and Lakoda Rayne taking the bottom two slots after America's vote. Is this proof that Us audiences just aren't ready for groups in vocal competitions?
It's strange, given some of the lackluster solo performances we've seen in recent weeks, that even when the groups perform solidly, they still haven't made enough of a connection with viewers to progress further in the live rounds. I firmly believe that the remaining group will be knocked out next week, and I guess then we'll finally start to see some drama in the Thursday eliminations.
Join us after the jump to find out who was the second act to be eliminated by America (and the judges).
Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments...
As predicted, the systematic wipe-out of the groups continued on 'The X Factor' tonight, with The Stereo Hogzz and Lakoda Rayne taking the bottom two slots after America's vote. Is this proof that Us audiences just aren't ready for groups in vocal competitions?
It's strange, given some of the lackluster solo performances we've seen in recent weeks, that even when the groups perform solidly, they still haven't made enough of a connection with viewers to progress further in the live rounds. I firmly believe that the remaining group will be knocked out next week, and I guess then we'll finally start to see some drama in the Thursday eliminations.
Join us after the jump to find out who was the second act to be eliminated by America (and the judges).
Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments...
- 11/10/2011
- by Laura Prudom
- Aol TV.
X Factor USA has revealed that the Top 11 will perform songs from the movies on tonight's (Wednesday) instalment of the singing competition. Contestants including Melanie Amaro, Chris Rene and Josh Krajcik will take to the stage for their third live performance in a bid to impress judges Simon Cowell, Nicole Scherzinger, La Reid and Paula Abdul and secure enough public votes to advance to next week. X Factor USA's winner will secure a $$5 million recording contract with Sony Music/Syco and the chance to appear in a Pepsi Super Bowl commercial. The remainder of The X Factor USA finalists are: Rachel Crow, Drew Ryniewicz, Astro, Marcus Canty, LeRoy Bell, Stacy Francis, Lakoda Rayne and The Stereo Hogzz. Jessie J and Willow Smith will appear on the following (more)...
- 11/9/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
As the judges and host Steve Jones said seemingly numerous times last night, this is a competition. Unpleasant as it is, someone always has to be sent home first. Don’t click through if you don’t want a Spoiler about last night’s installment of The X Factor. The first eliminated act chats with EW after the jump:
The energetic teens of InTENsity, the group created during the boot camp round, were tearfully sent packing after the judges decided to save Stereo Hogzz instead. The kids will now be scattered all over the country, but they discussed their next...
The energetic teens of InTENsity, the group created during the boot camp round, were tearfully sent packing after the judges decided to save Stereo Hogzz instead. The kids will now be scattered all over the country, but they discussed their next...
- 11/4/2011
- by Shaunna Murphy
- EW - Inside TV
The X Factor USA judge Paula Abdul has joked that Simon Cowell's compliments on her groups during the first live show were "weird". Cowell praised Abdul for the "incredible" work she had done with the groups in her category following girlband Lakoda Rayne's well-received performance of 'Come on Eileen'. "I'm going to say something I never thought I'd say on live TV... Paula, you have done an incredible job in these groups, you really have... It's annoying!" he joked. Cowell also lavished praise on boyband Stereo Hogzz following their performance of 'Try A Little Tenderness', telling Abdul: "I'm trying to say something but my mouth won't say it... Paula, you did a really good job." Abdul later told Access Hollywood backstage that she enjoyed the (more)...
- 10/26/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
The X Factor USA judge Paula Abdul has said that she feels "blessed" to be working with her groups for the live shows. Abdul chose to advance Stereo Hoggz, Lakoda Rayne, the Brewer Boys and inTENsity to the live shows following the Judges' Houses performances in Santa Barbara, where she was joined by guest judge Pharrell Williams. She wrote on her official Twitter account: "My groups are working So hard. there are no words for how proud i am of All of them. this is Not easy. #xfactor "i'm so grateful for the #xfactor groups i'm blessed to work w/. wish you could see all #rehearsals &the work everyone puts in. #awestruck. (sic)" Abdul went on to say: "To My Groups: i'm in my dressing room right now thinking about how proud i am of all of you & what you're about to do Live (more)...
- 10/25/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
Paula Abdul suggested in a recent video that the groups was the "toughest" category to mentor on X Factor but said she was the perfect judge to be given the responsibility. Pharrell Williams joined her in Santa Barbara for the Judges' Houses stages of the competition, where she whittled down her remaining eight groups to the four she will take to the live shows. Abdul's four groups - Lakoda Rayne, Brewer Boys, inTENsity and Stereo Hoggz - will join the rest of the Top 17 in performing live Tuesday, October 25 at 8/7c on Fox, when the judges will decide which contestants become the 'top finalists'. > X Factor USA reveals Top 16 as competition takes a twist
> X Factor USA Top 16: Do you agree with the judges' choices? The top finalists will then take to the stage live on Wednesday, November 2 at 8/7c on Fox where (more)...
> X Factor USA Top 16: Do you agree with the judges' choices? The top finalists will then take to the stage live on Wednesday, November 2 at 8/7c on Fox where (more)...
- 10/19/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.