I didn't watch the first series, so was unaware of the SB incident.
I generally liked Sharon until I saw a different side to her when Rhydian was a contestant. She was quite horrible to him and I did think it was unfair of a judge saying things on live TV, that the person concerned was obviously unable to retaliate to.
I don't know much about Steve, but I think he did well to keep his cool.
And as regards Cheryl - I do see the bitchiness of Sharon sometimes, but sadly never the wit.