X Factor Star Unrecognisable After Competing Aged 18 with One Direction – Guess Who!
This “X Factor” contestant seems like a completely different person compared to his appearance during the competition in 2010, when he was only eighteen years old.
Currently aged thirty-three, he persists in his music career and frequently shares singing videos, covers, and personal updates on Instagram for his 19,000 followers to see.
The artist, hailing from Blackpool, goes by the name Butterjack in the music world, and his latest cover version is a rendition of French artist Kavinsky’s hit song “Nightcall.
During his time on The X Factor, he contested as a lone performer alongside One Direction in the same season. Eventually, it was Matt Cardle who emerged victorious in that season.
He reached the live performances but was the 8th contestant to be eliminated. Following his elimination in week 6, he secured a record deal with RCA Records.
Without any accompanying music, he managed to captivate the judges during his performance by singing Kanye West’s “Gold Digger” all on his own. Can you tell me who this performer might be?

That’s right, it’s Aiden Grimshaw!
Aiden looks completely unrecognisable from his X Factor days and is now sporting a bushy moustache.
Additionally, he changed his short, styled hair into a loose, flowing hairstyle and enhanced his clothing collection with vintage pieces like a large denim jacket and various colorful knitted hats.
Two years following his elimination from The X Factor, Aiden unveiled his first single “Is This Love” in 2012. Upon its release, the song entered the UK Singles Chart at position 35.
He kept achieving success with his debut album “Misty Eye,” which came out in 2012 and managed to climb up to the 19th spot on the UK Albums Chart.
After completing a few additional ventures, he temporarily paused his music career, resuming it in 2015. Later, in 2018, he adopted the stage name Butterjack.
Aiden’s exit from The X Factor came as quite a surprise, as he faced off against Katie Waissel in the final two contestants, and the judge’s votes ended up being tied. The decision was then left to the public vote.
The seventh series was won by Matt Cardle, with Rebecca Ferguson runner-up and One Direction third.
As a devoted admirer, I wholeheartedly echo Sir Elton John’s sentiments when he describes the path to stardom via shows like The X Factor as potentially detrimental to an artist’s career. It’s not just about fame, it’s about nurturing raw talent and fostering authenticity in music.



Instead, the renowned musician advises up-and-coming artists to perform at local taverns as a means of taking risks, gaining experience, and building their confidence.
In a new interview with Rolling Stone, he stressed how important playing live is for musicians.
In his time at Musicology, he often played to modest-sized crowds, but regardless of the audience size, these performances always aided him in refining his skills.
He remembered: ‘That experience provided me with significant support later on, particularly when I transformed into Elton John, as I had found my backbone.’
‘The spine of a career, particularly in this field, is crucial. It’s disheartening to see situations such as sudden fame from shows like X Factor or TV appearances, which can occur without any live performance experience.’
Elton expressed his thoughts as follows: ‘Being thrust onto a stage only to fail is the most disheartening experience. American Idol, I find it incredibly disappointing. Instead, take chances and perform at a local pub.’
Yet, contrary to his dislike for talent shows focusing on music, Elton John made an appearance on “The X Factor” in 2013, teaming up with judge Gary Barlow for a joint performance.
Or,
Despite the fact that he’s not fond of musical talent contests, Elton John took part in “The X Factor” in 2013 and performed alongside judge Gary Barlow.
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2025-03-22 20:07