Craig Colton was voted off The X Factor last night (20.11.11).
The 22-year-old hopeful – who landed in the bottom two alongside Amelia Lily – fought back tears as judges Gary Barlow, Kelly Rowland, Tulisa Contostavlos and Louis Walsh took the decision to deadlock after giving the acts two votes apiece.
Following a sing-off which saw Craig perform the Shirelles’ Will You Love Me Tomorrow and Amelia – who only re-entered the ITV1 competition last week in the wake of Frankie Cocozza’s axe – belt out a rendition of Lady Gaga’s You and I, Tulisa and Craig’s mentor Gary voted to save the Liverpool-based singer.
Criticising Amelia’s performance, Gary said: “Amelia I feel like you shouted your way through that, while Craig was understated and gorgeous.
Tulisa added: “I don’t think I’ve ever been so torn before in a sing-off. Based on tonight’s performance, I’ll send home Amelia.”
However, Louis – the only judge left with no acts left in the show – claimed the 17-year-old wannabe was a “ready-made” pop star, sending the decision to deadlock.
He said: “I’ve loved you from day one, Craig, but I think Amelia is a ready-made pop star.”
Kelly – who is mentoring Amelia, as well as Janet Devlin and Misha B- explained: “Craig, I love you. I think you are a beautiful vocalist. I’m saving Amelia.”
After learning he would be leaving the competition, Craig told Dermot he had the time of his life on the show.
He said: “I’ve had the time of my life the last few months. I’ve done myself proud.”
ALL PICTURES: ITV.COM/XFACTOR
Misha B, complete with new hair do Kelly and Misha B


From:Set The Video: NASA: Triumph and Tragedy, BBC Two, Wednesday, 24 June, 9pm