Talent shows are no longer just small school affairs. Nowadays, they're known as America's Got Talent and American Idol. But no one can forget the one that started it all: The X-Factor.
Millions of UK hopefuls wait for hours for a chance to show off their chops in front of a panel of esteemed judges. However, talent is not what most viewers are here to see. They're here to see the bratty ones, the untalented ones, and, most importantly, the hilariously deluded. There's no shortage of funny moments, but here are 10 of them to give you an idea.
The Louis Walsh SuperFan (Vickie)
The judges have their fair share of fans. And Louis Walsh has a stronger fan club than most would think. When Irish contestant Vickie (who also runs a Louis Walsh fan club in Ireland) comes to audition, Simon and Cheryl, being the considerate folk they are, leave the room so that Louis can have this moment.
The best part is? Vickie can sing! She delivers a beautiful rendition of Celine Dion's My Heart Will Go On. Fangirl status notwithstanding, she makes it on to boot camp.
The Desperate Hopeful (Holly Jervis)
This well-meaning and sweet auditioner is memorable mainly for her quirk. As a camp singer, she already has a stage presence and is comfortable singing. However, she has one small quirk: her mouth is enormous! Her technique is also far from good.
She is nowhere near the worst of the auditioners (at least in terms of attitude) and she is very passionate about singing. However, she does not take Cheryl Cole's suggestion that she try another career very gracefully, tearfully proclaiming that "she is not wrong."
There's Only Room For One Judge (Onkar Judge)
The X-Factor is known for attracting its fair share of oddballs. One of these is Onkar Judge, a massive Michael Jackson fan who came in to please "only one judge. (Hint: he means himself). He sings nasally, out of tune, dramatically throws himself against the backdrop, and falls to his knees.
A truly sweet fellow, it doesn't seem like he has any ill intent. He's just a bit deluded about his abilities. And, no matter what he says, people will still "judge the Judge".
No Time For Monkeying Around (Twice As Nice)
This Scottish group is unforgettable for a myriad of reasons. First, they're cat/lion costumes. Second, their rendition of The Lion Sleeps Tonight. One half is bubbly and excited, while the other seems nervous and flat. And there's more: the song comes with complimentary monkey noises!
To sum it up, it's not a great audition and they're not poised to be the next pop sensations. It's not recommended to monkey around during an audition, but at least it makes for a memorable experience.
You Can't Sing Everything (Rachel Lester)
Quoted by Simon Cowell as being, "that horror we saw in Wales," Rachel Lester left quite a sour taste in the judge's mouths. Claiming that she can sing anything (as well as better than anyone), cocky is an understatement for her.
Her audition is a little less than average, but that's not why she's memorable. After being criticized for her attitude, she then goes on a curse-laden tirade against the judges and has to be escorted out by security. Not the best first impression to make on TV.
Don't Scare Away Potential Clients (Ariel Burdett)
Now, this is the "pièce de résistance"! As a self-proclaimed "holistic vocal coach," Ariel Bernett came in like a lioness ... and the judges were appropriately scared. After ripping off her contestant number and throwing it at the judges, claiming that she was "not a number, but a human being," she launched into a song of her creation. It was terrifying, to say the least.
When the judges let her know of their decision, she threateningly launches into another song before walking out. Sadly, Ariel passed away a few years ago.
Can't Take No For An Answer (Ant And Seb)
This brotherly duo are responsible for giving Simon Cowell quite a headache. They are self-described as being like "P. Diddy and Usher" and the audition consists of Anton singing (not well) and Sebastian echoing in a faux-Jamaican accent.
When they're given four "nos", Sebastian desperately convinces his brother to launch into another song. When they're removed by security, they stay outside the door and wait to harass Simon once he comes back out. Unsurprisingly, tantrums don't usually get you what you want.
Singing Is Not A Contact Sport (AbbLisa)
Nothing is more shocking (or funnier) than an onstage brawl. Add in a national live audience, some celebrity judges and you have "AbbLisa's" audition. This ill-fated pair auditioned during the show's 7th season. And they didn't impress.
Unfortunately, Lisa had some choice words to say about the audience booing, as well as the judges. When she pointedly asked Danii Minogue, "I'm sorry, who are you?" Abbey responded by punching her in the face! It's safe to say that their tight-knit friendship rang a sour note after that experience.
Rejection Should Be Taken Gracefully (Debbie Stevens)
A large percentage of auditioners do not take rejection as gracefully as they should. And Debbie Stevens is no exception. Very confident and assured, she surprisingly has a fairly nice voice.
Unfortunately, her cover of Mariah Carey's "When You Believe" does not impress. When Louis Walsh tells her that she is not a good singer, she throws water on him! And in self-defense, he does the same! This may sound redundant, but it is never recommended to give those who critique you an involuntary shower.
Preparing Your Audition Helps (Bun And Cheese)
This was not a prank. Naming themselves after their favorite food, this trio decides to try for the big time. And their audition is one for the history books. Why? Because they don't know the words!
The entirety of their audition is just them awkwardly staring at each other and "singing" snatches of words (Beyonce's "Listen", no less), while the audience supports them. On a positive note, Simon got a kick out of them, saying that their "attitudes are so bad that [he] actually quite liked them."