As Louis Tomlinson made his X Factor judge debut on Sunday evening, the pop star was moved to tears as a popular former contestant returned to the show.
Anthony Russell was a firm favourite with both fans and the judges alike last year, but the aspiring singer pulled out of the Judges' Houses round, citing 'personal reasons'.
And as the Liverpudlian labourer made his comeback by belting his heart out to Louis, Simon Cowell, Robbie Williams and Ayda Field, Anthony revealed that the One Direction star had arranged for him to go to rehab after he quit the series in 2017.
Anthony impressed the judges, the studio audience and viewers watching at home with his rendition of Avicii's 'Wake Me Up'. The Liverpudlian auditioned for the show as a teen back in 2007 too.
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Louis fought back the tears as Anthony returned to the show, heading onto the stage to give him a huge following the moving performance.
"It takes courage and ferocity. Your voice is sensational," a clearly impressed Robbie said.
The 'Angels' continued: "What I'm looking for is The X Factor and what you've got is The X Factor and I'll tell you why. Those battle scars give you something that not everybody has because your story is unique."
Louis echoed Robbie's words, and holding back his tears, he added: "I'm pretty emotional after that. I literally can't even talk here... it was a big moment for both of us and you absolutely delivered."
Anthony was sent through to the next round of the talent show - Bootcamp - after each judge said 'yes' to his act.
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Viewers watching at home were just as moved as Louis, taking to Twitter to congratulate Anthony on his successful performance.
"Ok so the rest of X Factor can just be cancelled. Anthony the scouse lad is the winner right there. Class all round - fresh out the toaster," exclaimed one person.
While somebody else echoed: "Had tear in my eye ,well done Anthony on your performance and Louis u are making a great judge [sic]."
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The X Factor auditions continue over on ITV at the weekend at 8pm.
Featured Image Credit: ITV/X Factor
Topics: TV Entertainment, x factor