Jo McElderry: Winner of Popstar to Operastar
Joe McElderry won Popstar to Operastar last night (10.07.11). The former X-Factor champion, who was dropped from Simon Cowell’s record label in April just 18 months after winning the talent show, beat off stiff competition from runner-up Cheryl Baker, and hinted the experience has made him keen to pursue a career in opera.
Joe said: “Honestly, I’ve had an absolute blast with Cheryl, I love her to bits.
“My voice has been refreshed. For a singer and for me that is just so exciting. This is not the end of opera for me. I will definitely sing more opera and who knows, lets see what happens.”
Joe – who teamed with mentor Rolando Villazon to perform Gastaldon’s Musica Proibita, as well as belting out a rendition of operatic classic Nessun Dorma – was praised by remaining judges Vanessa Mae, Simon Callow and Katherine Jenkins for “eclipsing” Rolando with his talents.
Simon explained: “Joe eclipsed Rolando completely! What was fantastic was that tonight you had passion and temperament in spades.”
Vanessa added: “You held your own, I think this had to be one of your proudest moments singing with Rolando, you should be very proud. That was astounding as usual.”
While Cheryl was disappointed not to have won the ITV1 show – hosted by Myleene Klass – she admitted she had her money on Joe from the beginning.
She said: “I didn’t expect to get this far and he’s fantastic. I had my money on Joe from the beginning. I’ve loved it.”
From:Set The Video: NASA: Triumph and Tragedy, BBC Two, Wednesday, 24 June, 9pm