Boy band Union J have lost a place in the semi-finals after being eliminated from X Factor after receiving the least public votes. The three remaining acts are women's favourite James Arthur, over-28 contestant Christopher Maloney and Asda worker Jahmene Douglas, who will perform for 10,000 fans in Manchester next week. Union J member Josh Cuthbert, 20, said: "We're so happy about where we've come and we've got so much to thank X Factor for."
The band's mentor, judge Louis Walsh, seemed to have expected the decision. "I'm a little bit disappointed, but we were ready for it. They're going to have an amazing future. They're the next big boy band. "Before performing their last song on the show, the band added: "This has been our dream, being here right now performing. We can't describe how amazing it has been, we loved every minute of it. "Bandmates Jamie Hamblett, 24, George Shelley, 19, Jaymi Hensley, 22 and Josh ended the night singing Taylor Swift's romantic song Romeo and Juliet.Josh, 22, from Swindon said: "I can't believe I've gone from Asda to getting through to the semi-final. It's crazy people think I'm good enough to get here."
The three acts who made it to the semi-finals where in better spirits. Heavily criticised Christopher Maloney, 34, said: "I'm just so grateful for everyone that has picked up the phone and voted for me. "Earlier the contestants kicked off the show with Rod Stewart's Merry Christmas, Baby and the rock legend himself joined them on stage in a surprise performance. Judge Tulisa Contostavlos performed her new single Sight Of You. Asked how she felt after her act, the 24-year-old confessed to Dermot it was "terrifying. You enjoy it but it's still terrifying." Although for her performance Tulisa changed into a short dress and a hoodie, for the show she chose a more glamorous look. The young judge wore a monochrome Rock & Roll Couture Dress by Suzannah which featured black lace detailing and a sheer full pleated skirt. She completed her look with bright pink lipstick and a pair of black peep toe heels, which perfectly matched her outfit.
Meanwhile, fellow judge Nicole dazzled in a one shoulder black Abed Mahfouz dress. The singer, who wore her dark hair in loose curls, topped off her look with Stephen Webster jewellery and Carvela shoes. Tulisa's performance was followed by pop star Pink singing Try on her first X Factor appearance.Sunday night's proceedings will be donated to children's charity Together For Short Lives.