Alexandra wins!
13 Dec 08
Alex scoops the grand prize!
Alexandra Burke was announced as the winner of The X Factor 2008 after a hugely emotional contest. We wrote a blow-by-blow account of the show as it unfolded. Here's how the action played out...
There are just two acts left in the competition - we don't know about you but we can't stand the tension in these last must-see moments. One song stands between JLS and Alexandra as they battle to be named the winner of The X Factor 2008 - and that song is the winner's single, Hallelujah.
JLS sing first. Their version is simple, with soothing harmonies and warm, warm tones. It sounds like a Christmas song. Louis looks like he's holding back waves of emotion. And then the boys step it up a gear, singing louder, and welcoming a white-clad choir to the stage. Aston sings a whole verse by himself, and then his band-mates and choir kick in. This is a big finish. It's a big song. But is it big enough to be the Christmas number one?
The boys hug and Aston looks drained as Dannii says, "They are the best band we've had on the show by a mile - I wish you all the best". Cheryl echoed what Dannii said, then Simon agreed, "You deserve your place in the final - you did great".
Lastly, mentor Louis said, "I think there are four stars born tonight - JLS. You are the best, most consistent, nicest guys in the world. That was a fantastic version of the single".
And composing himself to speak, Aston told Dermot, "That was the best feeling I've ever had in my life".
But that's only half the story.
Deep breath, and on to the last competitive song of the series - Hallelujah sung by Alexandra Burke. Dressed in her stunning gold frock, she sang it as though it was truly a hymn - heartfelt and emotional, eyes closed at times, and simple - but always powerful in the extreme. Then the end of the song came - oh so emotional, oh so amazing - we can't tell you how good it was! Alexandra Burke looked like a global superstar tonight. But would she get your vote?
The judges were blown away. Louis said, Alexandra, I loved that song I loved that version you are going to be a big recording artists".
Dannii told the shaking finalist, "That was song and gentle and sincere - it was your best performance".
Cheryl said; "I can't find any words to say to you. We are more than a mentor and an act - you are my friend. I hope it all ends the way it should. You are the winner in my eyes".
And Simon Cowell, who will remind you he knows talent when he sees it, was almost speechless. He said, "I'm sorry, that was unbelievable. That was just....seriously... incredible. You gotta win".
And Alex said, "Thank you so much. I am so honoured to be on the stage with JLS, and Eoghan, and the final twelve".
As Dermot welcomed JLS back onto the stage, Louis told him, "I hope they win, but either way they are going to have a career because they have the talent - and the have The X Factor".
When Alex came back on the stage, Cheryl said, "Thank you for being you. I adore you and you are an inspiration to me".
Eight million people have voted in The X Factor 2008.
And those eight million people have decided that Alexandra should win.
Wailing with emotion, Alexandra could hardly talk, but managed, "Thank you to Simon, Dannii, Louis and Cheryl, Nigel, Yvie...." then the tears took over"
As she hugs Simon Cowell and Cheryl Cole, Dermot asks Alex try to speak again.
"Oh my God! Everyone who voted for me this is for you".
And as she began to sing Hallelujah once more, she had to hold back the tears to get the words out. Tears streamed down her cheeks. But as she continued, her voice grew stronger, and once more it was clear why she has just been announced as The X Factor winner.
So emotional. So perfect. And such a deserving winner.
The eleven other finalist acts joined Alexandra on stage. And that was it. The X Factor has found another superstar.
How should Alexandra celebrate? Tell us below!