Melanie Amaro Wins X Factor, $5M - 'Thanks' Supporters
Melanie Amaro has been named the winner of this season’s “X Factor,” following Thursday night’s season finale.
The episode not only saw the 19-year-old claim the $5 million prize, but also a performance by rapper 50 Cent.
Amaro remained this season's favorite ‘X Factor’ finalist, and took to Twitter ahead of the show finale.
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“I love all my supporters,” the singer wrote on the social media site. “Thank you if I [you] have taken time out to vote for me thank you soo much I love you.”
Amaro was largely slated to win the competition, and Wednesday night’s performances furthered her chances. R. Kelly joined her as they sang his song “I Believe I Can Fly,” followed by her rendition of Beyonce’s “Listen.”
Ahead of the season finale Thursday night, finalist Chris Rene also took to Twitter sending messages to his fans.
“Not gonna stop this livin on a feeling, man this is the real thing, tell me can you feel me??? VOTE CHRIS RENE for the win!!!!”
Rene also tweeted just hours before the show, “LoveLifeSalute.”
Rene became an audience favorite for his original songs, which included rap lyrics and catchy beats. The 27-year-old from Santa Cruz, Calif. won praise from the judges’ panel for his performances during the finals.
Singing with Avril Lavigne Wednesday night earned Rene praise from notoriously harsh Cowell, who said that Rene's original rap lyrics combined with Lavigne's songs could make a great record.
“X Factor” judge L.A. Reid told the young singer Wednesday, “That wasn’t a $5 million performance – that was a $50 million performance!”
Nicknamed “magic Krajcik” by judge Nicole Scherzinger, the third “X Factor” finalist Josh posted his gratitude to his fellow competitors on Twitter ahead of the finale.
“Just an honor to compete w/ @ItsMelanieAmaro & @MrChrisRene. Both extremely talented I wish them all the best after @TheXFactorUSA,” wrote the singer.
Krajcik continued, “Gotta thank everyone again 4 the support & votes! I know there were so many people giving it their all. Much love & respect. #beastthanks.”
On Wednesday, Alanis Morissette joined Krajcik onstage to sing her song “Uninvited.”
Morissette and Krajcik’s performance earned the “X Factor” finalist praise from judge Paula Abdul, who said Krajcik upheld his “identity, dignity, and integrity,” despite singing with the famed performer.
Cowell was not as kind. The notoriously harsh judge called the performance “an eight out of ten.”
The “X Factor” winner will not only enjoy the $5 million prize, which is the largest prize in television history, but a record deal.
