Make of the article what you will, but it just conforms to me what I have always know, XF is very scripted even down to the 'casting' of the Final 12. People on this forum criticise Cheryl for putting the wrong boys through, so they constantly forget she had no say, it's all a done deal worked out by producers and Simon.

XF is all about delivering a highly rated entertainment show for Saturday (now Sunday) night and provide ITV with much needed advertising and phone voting revenue. Some years they get lucky and find acts that can go on to chart/sales success, but for most of the time contestants are just bit players, whose drams will never be realised in full.

It was interesting, ok I agree a lot of re-hashing, but still, a fairly enjoyable read.

But we all knew that Jedward happened on purpose didnt we? I, for one, am glad. I now actually look forward to them, funnily enough! Even people who don't like them much can't stop talking about them!

IF its true about Danyl being the fall guy, I rather think that might have spiralled a little out of control. I doubt he can win, but I would really still like him too!

As for the two girls, either one of them is in with a chance - Lucie is coming along in leaps and bounds and it looks like Stacey is going to throw off her "can't move won't move" critics later. Lets hope so!

Does anyone think at this stage Simon actually cares who wins? Not me, I think he is happy whatever now.

I wouldn't be suprised if Danyl's fall was engineered (but I agree with Lisa that it was not intended to go that far). Rhydian had similar abuse to deal with (not accused of bullying though) which resulted in hate campaigns, including death threats apparantly. He turning that arround was one of the stories of that year. Simon probably thought that something similar could be done with Daryl. Just a theory and of course doesn't haveto mean that Daryl was in on it.

I do not think Danyl was in on it Neelia, I really dont. It will be interesting tonight now to see how well or badly they sing, perform and entertain the audience at home.