The X Factor: Change is good

The X Factor returned this week, and whilst I was unsure whether two new judges, new presenters across the board and little tweaks to the process would all be too much at once, it actually worked really well.

There was never doubt that Olly and Caroline wouldn't be great - they've both been 'Xtra's' there before and, of course, Olly was a contestant not so long ago himself. Dermot's big boots have been filled nicely!
Over on The Xtra Factor, Rochelle and Melvin also seem to fit the bill well, and come across natural in a way that last year's presenter Sarah-Jane failed to, in my opinion. Like Olly and Caroline, you can see that Rochelle and Melvin are mates off screen and that's always something viewers warm to.
I know it was only the first two shows, but so far so good for our new presenting team.

Then there were the new judges... I was vocal about Grimmy being the one I was unsure of, but after hearing him talk about having worked in the music industry since the age of 15 and the way he is so in love with the show (so much so, he throws X Factor live show parties for his friends!) I wondered if he maybe would be a good addition, which, so far I think he is.
Grimmy was in awe at being a judge, but gave clear and concise feedback - being as fair as can be. He did know what he was talking about, and I found myself agreeing with him on more than one occasion.
Rita, too, was also great. She's also taking over the role of most emotional judge! Rita loves music and will really care about her category. She's also competitive, so will want to win. Cheryl and Simon also returned, with Cheryl, who's now apparently an executive producer on the show, really taking some of the control on the panel. She came across much more authoritative, in a good way. I think Cheryl feels comfy with this new panel and they all seem to genuinely get on with each other, without the bravado we've seen in previous years. You can also see this in Simon, who was also getting in on the fun aspects.
Cheryl's new found authority came into play especially during the last audition of Sunday's episode, when Simon was bought to tears over contestant Josh, who sung Labyrinth's Jealous, in memory of his friend who passed away not so long ago. Simon's mum had only just passed away a few days before this audition, and he couldn't even speak after Josh's performance, leaving an also emotional Cheryl to take lead. It was a sombre, yet beautiful moment.

Remember, also, you have until midday today to vote via Twitter for which judge you want to have which category. For example - #SimonBoys, #CherylGroups, #RitaOvers, #NickGirls - which is actually the way I voted.

All in all, The X Factor's return was a great success and I can;t wait for it to really get going.

Winter Saturday nights are almost upon us!

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