i just wanted to add a few thoughts now that the series has 'climaxed'.
I doubt that the voting is rigged; I just think the public generally have a rather disjointed idea of what talent actually is.
I feel rather sorry for Simon as the series went on, and it became apparent that he was going to be saddled with Steve ... must have been a challenge to 'big up' someone who is essentially not worth it.
As for Steve winning especially when he couldn't get the words right on his final song ... well, just ridiculous. So 'X factor' doesn't include basic performing skills then ? Sheesh ...
I think G4 are outstandingly talented and professional. I wish them every success. I wonder if they could try a more conventional singing style as well as their operatic one? They don't have to turn into a boy band or anything.
As for the next series, I think I heard Simon say at some point that they would consider contestants a little differently somehow next time. In view of this series and result, seems like a sound plan.
I enjoyed the series very much (no more than Pop Idol etc etc) but I wouldn't say there was a significant amount of 'X factor' present.