County X Factor hopeful is rejected from live shows

Oct 7 2010 by Chris Clements, Hamilton Advertiser

X FACTOR contestant Stephen Hunter has no bitterness – despite failing to make the final round of the telly talent show last weekend.

The Lesmahagow man was within touching distance of reaching the live performances which begin on Saturday.

However, the 41-year-old was dropped after failing to win over judge and mentor Louis Walsh during auditions for the over-28s’ category.

Stephen was one of only 32 acts to make it this far, but was rejected from the final 12 contestants.

After belting out a rendition of Pink’s “Get the Party Started”, he was given the boot in favour of Storm Lee, John Adeleye and Mary Byrne.

However, he looks back on his experience positively.

“I really enjoyed it, and had a fantastic time,” he said.

“Although, it was hard work, you don’t get something for nothing.

“For me, to be suddenly singing in front of an audience of thousands, and the millions of people watching at home, means I can have a career in music, be that in clubs or hotels or charity gigs.

“This has given me more opportunities than I’ve ever had, so I’m very positive about it.

“I’m now going to try and launch a career, and it’s what I do now that counts.”

House husband Stephen – who also revealed that he was Mr Gay Scotland in his youth – has no arguments over his X Factor rejection.

He said: “Louis was doing what he believed was right. At the end of the day, it’s just a shame that he didn’t pick me.

“I walked into it with my eyes wide open.”

The former Lesmahagow High pupil was also nonplussed by the public outcry over Zimbabwean-born Gamu Nhengu’s knockback.

A media campaign started this week to bring the 18-year-old Tillicoultry girl back into the contest. He said: “To be honest, the girls category was the strongest, and as much as I loved Gamu, I’m not shocked that she never went through.

“The competition was very fierce, and Cheryl Cole must have been looking at the bigger picture.”

Stephen is backing 23-year-old Liverpudlian Rebecca Ferguson to win the show, stating she has superstar qualities.

However, he is also supporting friend and fellow over-28 contestant Mary.

He said: “I would love Mary to go further. I have to go with my heart as I love her to bits.”

Stephen added: “I’m going to try and get a mini-tour off the ground. I have already been offered a charity gig in Lancashire, and a number of nightclub appearances.

“But I’m also open to offers from any agents who wish to represent me.

“I may leave things for a week to see what comes my way, and after that I’ll have to start the ball rolling myself.”