The X Factor's lasting impact on its contestants is a topic of intense debate, with former winners speaking out about the show's potential for abuse and the need for accountability. In an exclusive interview with GB News, Matt Terry, Dalton Harris, and Jaymi Hensley, all winners of The X Factor, shared their experiences and the long-term effects of their time on the show.
Terry, who won in 2016, highlighted the show's dual nature: "So much good came from it...but I’ve also had to do two years of therapy to understand what I went through." He criticized the industry's exploitation of contestants' mental health, stating, 'People were making millions off your poor mental health...that’s not okay. It’s an abuse of power.' This sentiment was echoed by Harris, who won in 2018, who described the industry as 'unregulated' and likened it to a 'farm for your trauma.'
The vulnerability of contestants was also a recurring theme. Terry revealed, 'I had £4 in my bank account when I entered the show. What else am I going to do? I’m going to say yes to everything.' This highlights the financial desperation that can lead contestants to accept any opportunity, potentially compromising their agency.
Despite their success, the three singers emphasized the show's lasting impact. Terry stated, 'There are people from X Factor and Love Island still suffering today.' This underscores the long-term consequences that can affect contestants even after their time on the show.
The discussion around accountability is particularly relevant given the show's renewed scrutiny. Cowell's involvement in a forthcoming documentary examining the show's legacy has sparked calls for greater transparency. Terry expressed his desire for 'accountability from Simon Cowell,' emphasizing that the focus should be on the contestants' experiences rather than their fame.
Hensley, a member of the boyband Union J, offered a more nuanced perspective, acknowledging the show's varying impacts. He said, 'I had a positive experience, that’s my truth. Everyone’s journey is different.' This highlights the subjective nature of the contestants' experiences and the importance of recognizing individual outcomes.
The X Factor's impact, as described by these former winners, is profound and multifaceted. It raises questions about the ethical responsibilities of the industry and the need for better support systems for contestants. As the show continues to influence careers and lives, the call for accountability and care becomes increasingly urgent.
