Yahoo News X Factor 2016: Former Union J Singer George Shelley ‘In Talks For The Xtra Factor’
George Shelley is reportedly being lined up for a job as a “social media correspondent” on ITV2’s spinoff show, The Xtra Factor.
Network bosses are apparently keen for the former Union J star to sign up and become part of the X Factor team in an attempt to ‘keep the younger viewers’ watching the show following the announcement of an “ageing” judging line up.
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George would work alongside fellow X Factor star Rylan Clark-Neal and current Xtra Factor co-host Rochelle Humes, according to The Sun.
A source explained: “George was a huge hit when he was in the jungle and he has proved to be a capable host on Capital FM.
“With an ageing judging panel this year [Simon Cowell, Sharon Osbourne, Louis Walsh, Nicole Scherzinger], producers hope George can keep younger viewers engaged.”
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George auditioned for the ninth series of The X Factor as a solo artist, but he was later added to group act ‘Triple J’ alongside Josh Cuthbert, JJ Hamblett and Jaymi Hensley.
Under the new moniker ‘Union J’, the four-piece group finished fourth in the competition, subsequently signing a record deal with Sony Music subsidiary RCA Records.
The band released their self-titled debut studio album in 2013, peaking at number six on the UK Albums Chart.
Copyright [Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock]
However - George, who was a runner up on last year’s I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here, hit headlines a few months ago when he announced his shock departure from the pop group.
Upon leaving, the 22-year-old revealed that he wanted to explore other career options. He now co-presents The Capital Breakfast Show along with Dave Berry and Lilah Parsons.
Meanwhile, Union J has since replaced George with another X Factor star, Stereo Kicks’ Casey Johnson.
So, everyone’s happy, right?
