Westlife’s Mark Feehily is sharing a positive health update ahead of the band’s first ever tour of North America.
Et Canada’s Carlos Bustamante caught up with Feehily alongside his bandmates, Shane Filan, Nicky Byrne and Kian Egan, for an exclusive chat about their sold out Toronto shows.
Read More: Westlife, Irish Boy Band, Reuniting With New Music And Tour
“I’m feeling great. I wouldn’t have come back unless all of the doctors and everybody gave me the go-ahead,” said Feehily.
The 43-year-old singer missed out on a number of Westlife’s concerts last year due to health issues and recovering from surgery.
“I just have to take it easy when I’m not on stage and stuff like that because I’m still finding my feet a little bit,” he continued. “As I said, I wouldn’t have came back unless I felt completely ready.
Et Canada’s Carlos Bustamante caught up with Feehily alongside his bandmates, Shane Filan, Nicky Byrne and Kian Egan, for an exclusive chat about their sold out Toronto shows.
Read More: Westlife, Irish Boy Band, Reuniting With New Music And Tour
“I’m feeling great. I wouldn’t have come back unless all of the doctors and everybody gave me the go-ahead,” said Feehily.
The 43-year-old singer missed out on a number of Westlife’s concerts last year due to health issues and recovering from surgery.
“I just have to take it easy when I’m not on stage and stuff like that because I’m still finding my feet a little bit,” he continued. “As I said, I wouldn’t have came back unless I felt completely ready.
- 8/25/2023
- by Sarah Curran
- ET Canada
Mark Feehily has recalled his experience while suffering from pneumonia for a month last year.
The Westlife singer was forced to pull out of the band’s live dates on their Wild Dreams tour in November due to the illness.
Westlife is usually made up of Feehilly, Brian McFadden, Shane Filan, Nicky Byrne and Kian Egan.
Now, Feehily has opened up about his emotions while missing out on the gigs, saying he is “very glad” that the illness is behind him.
"It was almost like being back in lockdown because, for the first couple of weeks, I was just in bed all the time,” the 42-year-old singer explained.
"It was an almost out-of-body experience watching the Westlife tour go ahead while I lay in bed.
"It was the first time any of us had missed a stint of gigs in 25 years, and I’m very glad it’s behind me.
The Westlife singer was forced to pull out of the band’s live dates on their Wild Dreams tour in November due to the illness.
Westlife is usually made up of Feehilly, Brian McFadden, Shane Filan, Nicky Byrne and Kian Egan.
Now, Feehily has opened up about his emotions while missing out on the gigs, saying he is “very glad” that the illness is behind him.
"It was almost like being back in lockdown because, for the first couple of weeks, I was just in bed all the time,” the 42-year-old singer explained.
"It was an almost out-of-body experience watching the Westlife tour go ahead while I lay in bed.
"It was the first time any of us had missed a stint of gigs in 25 years, and I’m very glad it’s behind me.
- 2/21/2023
- by Megan Graye
- The Independent - Music
Westlife are coming home for Christmas.
The Irish pop group, comprising Nicky Bryne, Shane Filan, Mark Feehily, and Kian Egan, on Friday (16 September) announced their first Dublin indoor shows in over 11 years at the 3Arena.
“We will be playing two intimate shows at Dublin’s 3Arena on 20 + 21 December 2022,” the band’s Twitter post read.
The shows are titled “Home For Christmas – All The Hits”, Westlife continued, adding, “There really is no place like home, especially at Christmas time, and we can’t wait to see you there!”
The band, which has secured 14 UK number one singles and eight number one albums, spent the summer on tour across the UK and Ireland to promote their latest album Wild Dreams.
The tour run also included the group’s first ever performance at Wembley stadium last month, on 6 August.
In an interview ahead of their maiden Wembley outing, Byrne reflected on the band’s history,...
The Irish pop group, comprising Nicky Bryne, Shane Filan, Mark Feehily, and Kian Egan, on Friday (16 September) announced their first Dublin indoor shows in over 11 years at the 3Arena.
“We will be playing two intimate shows at Dublin’s 3Arena on 20 + 21 December 2022,” the band’s Twitter post read.
The shows are titled “Home For Christmas – All The Hits”, Westlife continued, adding, “There really is no place like home, especially at Christmas time, and we can’t wait to see you there!”
The band, which has secured 14 UK number one singles and eight number one albums, spent the summer on tour across the UK and Ireland to promote their latest album Wild Dreams.
The tour run also included the group’s first ever performance at Wembley stadium last month, on 6 August.
In an interview ahead of their maiden Wembley outing, Byrne reflected on the band’s history,...
- 9/16/2022
- by Maanya Sachdeva
- The Independent - Music
One Direction, Kimberley Walsh and Strictly Come Dancing's Karen Clifton have shown their support for BBC Children in Need.
The stars have posed in the official Pudsey T-shirt designed by Giles Deacon.
Other celebrities to back this year's campaign include Laura Whitmore, Nadine Coyle, Fearne Cotton, Lorraine Kelly and Daisy Lowe.
Model Lowe said of the T-shirt: "Dress it up or dress it down, this sleek take on Pudsey Bear will make it easy to look fantastic while fundraising."
Clifton's Strictly companions Anita Rani and Gleb Savchenko recently led a ramble to raise money for the charity.
Cotton will present this year's Children in Need broadcast with Sir Terry Wogan, Tess Daly, Rochelle Humes and Nick Grimshaw.
The show will see Sir Bruce Forsyth return to present a Call the Midwife special of Strictly Come Dancing and Harry Hill present a one-off comedy special.
Musical performances on the night...
The stars have posed in the official Pudsey T-shirt designed by Giles Deacon.
Other celebrities to back this year's campaign include Laura Whitmore, Nadine Coyle, Fearne Cotton, Lorraine Kelly and Daisy Lowe.
Model Lowe said of the T-shirt: "Dress it up or dress it down, this sleek take on Pudsey Bear will make it easy to look fantastic while fundraising."
Clifton's Strictly companions Anita Rani and Gleb Savchenko recently led a ramble to raise money for the charity.
Cotton will present this year's Children in Need broadcast with Sir Terry Wogan, Tess Daly, Rochelle Humes and Nick Grimshaw.
The show will see Sir Bruce Forsyth return to present a Call the Midwife special of Strictly Come Dancing and Harry Hill present a one-off comedy special.
Musical performances on the night...
- 10/19/2015
- Digital Spy
It looks like Children In Need have let the cat out the bag about Ellie Goulding's next single.
The programme has announced that the singer will give "an exclusive performance of her forthcoming single, 'Army'" on the show next month.
'Army' will follow on from 'On My Mind' as the latest single from Goulding's new album Delirium, while we've also heard new track 'Something In The Way You Move'.
Selena Gomez, Rod Stewart and Years & Years will also take to the stage for Children In Need on November 13 and Shane FIlan and Nadine Coyle will perform their duet 'I Could Be'.
Sir Terry Wogan, Tess Daly, Fearne Cotton, Rochelle Humes and Nick Grimshaw will host this year's action-packed show.
Meanwhile Goulding's album is out on November 6, in a month that will also see Justin Bieber and One Direction battle for the top spot.
Watch the music video for Ellie Goulding...
The programme has announced that the singer will give "an exclusive performance of her forthcoming single, 'Army'" on the show next month.
'Army' will follow on from 'On My Mind' as the latest single from Goulding's new album Delirium, while we've also heard new track 'Something In The Way You Move'.
Selena Gomez, Rod Stewart and Years & Years will also take to the stage for Children In Need on November 13 and Shane FIlan and Nadine Coyle will perform their duet 'I Could Be'.
Sir Terry Wogan, Tess Daly, Fearne Cotton, Rochelle Humes and Nick Grimshaw will host this year's action-packed show.
Meanwhile Goulding's album is out on November 6, in a month that will also see Justin Bieber and One Direction battle for the top spot.
Watch the music video for Ellie Goulding...
- 10/15/2015
- Digital Spy
There's a huge amount in store for Children in Need viewers this year, after BBC One announced the lineup for the night of charity programming next month.
Sir Terry Wogan, Tess Daly, Fearne Cotton, Rochelle Humes and Nick Grimshaw will host the action-packed special on Friday, November 13 at 7.30pm.
The evening will see Sir Bruce Forsyth return to Strictly Come Dancing to host a Call the Midwife special.
Stars of Call the Midwife Jenny Agutter, Laura Main, Stephen McGann and Jack Ashton will all strut their stuff for charity, fighting to win the Pudsey Glitter Ball trophy.
Elsewhere, there's a host of musical talent on offer too, with Years & Years, Rod Stewart and Selena Gomez all due to perform on the night.
Shane Filan and Nadine Coyle will also perform their duet 'I Could Be'.
Meanwhile, Harry Hill will present a one-off comedy special, and there'll be performances from the West End cast of Beautiful,...
Sir Terry Wogan, Tess Daly, Fearne Cotton, Rochelle Humes and Nick Grimshaw will host the action-packed special on Friday, November 13 at 7.30pm.
The evening will see Sir Bruce Forsyth return to Strictly Come Dancing to host a Call the Midwife special.
Stars of Call the Midwife Jenny Agutter, Laura Main, Stephen McGann and Jack Ashton will all strut their stuff for charity, fighting to win the Pudsey Glitter Ball trophy.
Elsewhere, there's a host of musical talent on offer too, with Years & Years, Rod Stewart and Selena Gomez all due to perform on the night.
Shane Filan and Nadine Coyle will also perform their duet 'I Could Be'.
Meanwhile, Harry Hill will present a one-off comedy special, and there'll be performances from the West End cast of Beautiful,...
- 10/13/2015
- Digital Spy
Louis Walsh is "very happy" not to be doing The X Factor, according to Shane Filan.
The Westlife star spoke to Digital Spy about the show's makeover and the manager's relief not to be part of this series of the talent show.
"It's weird seeing Louis not there obviously because he was part of the four seats, but best of luck to Nick [Grimshaw]. Louis had done it for 11 years. He's very happy not to be doing it if I'm being honest," said Filan, who appeared alongside Walsh on the Judges' Houses round of the show in 2013.
Walsh might have dismissed Nick Grimshaw as a "groupie" and a "bad booking", but Filan had kinder words to say about the Radio 1 DJ.
"[Louis] had fun with Simon [Cowell] but that's not to say Nick won't be a good judge. You've got to give him a bit of time. It's when it comes to the live shows,...
The Westlife star spoke to Digital Spy about the show's makeover and the manager's relief not to be part of this series of the talent show.
"It's weird seeing Louis not there obviously because he was part of the four seats, but best of luck to Nick [Grimshaw]. Louis had done it for 11 years. He's very happy not to be doing it if I'm being honest," said Filan, who appeared alongside Walsh on the Judges' Houses round of the show in 2013.
Walsh might have dismissed Nick Grimshaw as a "groupie" and a "bad booking", but Filan had kinder words to say about the Radio 1 DJ.
"[Louis] had fun with Simon [Cowell] but that's not to say Nick won't be a good judge. You've got to give him a bit of time. It's when it comes to the live shows,...
- 10/7/2015
- Digital Spy
Sam Smith is set to claim the first ever chart-topping Bond theme on Friday with 'Writing's On The Wall'.
The Spectre song currently has double the combined sales of its closest competitor, Justin Bieber's 'What Do You Mean?'.
22 best and worst (pre-Spectre) Bond theme songs ranked: Every single's here, but which are classics and which need their 00 status revoked?
To date none of the previous bond themes have claimed the number one spot in the UK, with Adele's 'Skyfall' and Duran Duran's 'A View To A Kill' narrowly missing the position and peaking at number two.
Meanwhile R City and Adam Levine's 'Locked Away' is at three, Sigala's 'Easy Love' slips two places to four and The Weeknd's 'Can't Feel My Face' completes the Top 5.
Nick Brewer is set to enter the charts at eight with 'Talk To Me', which samples...
The Spectre song currently has double the combined sales of its closest competitor, Justin Bieber's 'What Do You Mean?'.
22 best and worst (pre-Spectre) Bond theme songs ranked: Every single's here, but which are classics and which need their 00 status revoked?
To date none of the previous bond themes have claimed the number one spot in the UK, with Adele's 'Skyfall' and Duran Duran's 'A View To A Kill' narrowly missing the position and peaking at number two.
Meanwhile R City and Adam Levine's 'Locked Away' is at three, Sigala's 'Easy Love' slips two places to four and The Weeknd's 'Can't Feel My Face' completes the Top 5.
Nick Brewer is set to enter the charts at eight with 'Talk To Me', which samples...
- 9/28/2015
- Digital Spy
Strictly Come Dancing is still months away, but the rumours about which celebrities could be taking part this year are really starting to heat up now - and they've been going since January. So it felt like a good time to start to put together all the speculation we've heard to see if we can figure out who'll be hitting the ballroom in the new series.
Strictly Come Dancing: This is how they keep the celebrities taking part a secret
Strictly Come Dancing 2015 winner: We rank the celebrities' changes of topping BBC One's dance-off
With all the contestants now confirmed, check out the lineup below - and lament what could have been with the rumours that didn't become a reality. Oh well, there's always the Christmas special...
Confirmed
Rumoured
Confirmed contestants
Jeremy Vine
King of the swingometer Jeremy became the first celebrity confirmed for Strictly on August 10.
The...
Strictly Come Dancing: This is how they keep the celebrities taking part a secret
Strictly Come Dancing 2015 winner: We rank the celebrities' changes of topping BBC One's dance-off
With all the contestants now confirmed, check out the lineup below - and lament what could have been with the rumours that didn't become a reality. Oh well, there's always the Christmas special...
Confirmed
Rumoured
Confirmed contestants
Jeremy Vine
King of the swingometer Jeremy became the first celebrity confirmed for Strictly on August 10.
The...
- 8/28/2015
- Digital Spy
Louis Walsh has said that he wants to quit The X Factor.
The long-serving judge told TV3's The Seven O'Clock Show (via Daily Mail) that he wants to return to management.
"I'm done with X Factor, honestly," Walsh told presenters, before saying that he'd really have to think about making a return.
"I want to go back to being a manager. That's my day job and I've neglected it for a long time because I'm away so much.
"At the moment, I'm working with Shane Filan - he's got a new record coming out, and I'm also working with Hometown."
Walsh previously managed Irish boybands Boyzone and Westlife before becoming a judge on the ITV series.
"I'd like to get back to where I started off… I never even wanted to be on TV, it just happened," he added.
It was recently announced that presenter Dermot O'Leary won't be...
The long-serving judge told TV3's The Seven O'Clock Show (via Daily Mail) that he wants to return to management.
"I'm done with X Factor, honestly," Walsh told presenters, before saying that he'd really have to think about making a return.
"I want to go back to being a manager. That's my day job and I've neglected it for a long time because I'm away so much.
"At the moment, I'm working with Shane Filan - he's got a new record coming out, and I'm also working with Hometown."
Walsh previously managed Irish boybands Boyzone and Westlife before becoming a judge on the ITV series.
"I'd like to get back to where I started off… I never even wanted to be on TV, it just happened," he added.
It was recently announced that presenter Dermot O'Leary won't be...
- 4/11/2015
- Digital Spy
Fame Academy may only have lasted two series, but boy, did it burn bright. And even though it was over ten years ago that it was on our screens, we're still belting out David Sneddon's utter tune 'Stop Living The Lie' at our DS karaoke sessions.
But the news of series two's Alistair Griffin teaming up with Kimberley Walsh for a Tour de France single got us thinking - what happened to all of our favourite Fame Academy contestants? Well, here's what we could find out about 16 of the students over both series...
Series One
Ashley House
Ashley might have been eliminated in week one of Fame Academy (the shame) but he's not let that little disappointment hold him back. He went on to guest star in an episode of Cbbc's Mi: High... look, we promise, this gets better. He's now a sports presenter who helped launch Arsenal TV,...
But the news of series two's Alistair Griffin teaming up with Kimberley Walsh for a Tour de France single got us thinking - what happened to all of our favourite Fame Academy contestants? Well, here's what we could find out about 16 of the students over both series...
Series One
Ashley House
Ashley might have been eliminated in week one of Fame Academy (the shame) but he's not let that little disappointment hold him back. He went on to guest star in an episode of Cbbc's Mi: High... look, we promise, this gets better. He's now a sports presenter who helped launch Arsenal TV,...
- 7/4/2014
- Digital Spy
There was one question on our lips at the opening night of I Can't Sing last night - and it wasn't whether the show would make it past the interval (it did). Nope, we wanted to find out just who'd be filling that fourth judge seat on the X Factor panel, and the glittery celebs at the musical seemed like good people to ask. So who wants Chris Martin? Who's backing Fergie? And, er, who's waiting for Louis to die? Read on to find out...
Matt Richardson - Chris Martin
"I think a rock superstar would be good - someone like Matt Bellamy from Muse or Billie Joe Armstrong from Green Day. Someone who's done gigging and slogging away on the circuit of pubs and clubs would be a really interesting addition to the panel. If I was booking it that's the kind of person I'd be looking for. Or Chris Martin,...
Matt Richardson - Chris Martin
"I think a rock superstar would be good - someone like Matt Bellamy from Muse or Billie Joe Armstrong from Green Day. Someone who's done gigging and slogging away on the circuit of pubs and clubs would be a really interesting addition to the panel. If I was booking it that's the kind of person I'd be looking for. Or Chris Martin,...
- 3/27/2014
- Digital Spy
Way way back in August, James Arthur seemed like a pretty nice bloke, Busted and McFly were two separate entities and mugs weren't terrified of Huey Morgan.
A lot can change in four months. Who'd have thought that the two final acts standing on The X Factor 2013 would be a 36-year-old mum-of-two and a wee Scottish lad with as much charisma as Shane Filan?
But heck, you voted for 'em! So join Digital Spy for the final time from 7.30pm, as we kill time before Sam Bailey wins watch nervously to see whether Sam or Nicholas McDonald will be crowned your champion...
21:29Anyway, that's all, folks! Hope you enjoyed this series, and we'll be back at the same time, same place next year. Goodnight!
21:29Come 2014, we should try and remember that Bailey's isn't just for Christmas. Sam is talented and lovely enough to get a proper career outta this,...
A lot can change in four months. Who'd have thought that the two final acts standing on The X Factor 2013 would be a 36-year-old mum-of-two and a wee Scottish lad with as much charisma as Shane Filan?
But heck, you voted for 'em! So join Digital Spy for the final time from 7.30pm, as we kill time before Sam Bailey wins watch nervously to see whether Sam or Nicholas McDonald will be crowned your champion...
21:29Anyway, that's all, folks! Hope you enjoyed this series, and we'll be back at the same time, same place next year. Goodnight!
21:29Come 2014, we should try and remember that Bailey's isn't just for Christmas. Sam is talented and lovely enough to get a proper career outta this,...
- 12/15/2013
- Digital Spy
Forget advent calendars, Coca-Cola ads and John Lewis's blooming hare and bear. The one true sign that Christmas is upon us is the arrival of the X Factor final. Someone pass us the eggnog!
Over two nights, viewers will decide this year's champion and whoever they pick from Nicholas McDonald, Sam Bailey or Luke Friend will most likely be this year's Christmas number one.
It hasn't been a vintage year for The X Factor, but we're sure ITV, Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh are planning to pull out all the stops and some final twists to remind us why we come back year after year.
Stick with Digital Spy from 8pm when we'll be covering all the action live.
22:00So here are our X Factor Final 2. Sam Bailey and Nicholas McDonald. Hardly the most inspiring pair of singers, but heck, you voted for them.
21:58And we can't...
Over two nights, viewers will decide this year's champion and whoever they pick from Nicholas McDonald, Sam Bailey or Luke Friend will most likely be this year's Christmas number one.
It hasn't been a vintage year for The X Factor, but we're sure ITV, Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh are planning to pull out all the stops and some final twists to remind us why we come back year after year.
Stick with Digital Spy from 8pm when we'll be covering all the action live.
22:00So here are our X Factor Final 2. Sam Bailey and Nicholas McDonald. Hardly the most inspiring pair of singers, but heck, you voted for them.
21:58And we can't...
- 12/14/2013
- Digital Spy
Louis Walsh has said that Simon Cowell will "definitely" return to The X Factor UK.
The long-running judge revealed that he expects Cowell to take back his place on the panel, which he held until 2010 before leaving to launch the Us version of the ITV show.
Speaking to Digital Spy and others, Walsh said: "Simon's coming back, I'm pretty certain of that. Simon, I think, is definitely coming back to X Factor.
"He's having some new faces on the panel. I'd say I'm 70% certain he'll come back."
Walsh - who recently admitted he was having a change of heart about his planned departure from the show - said that he was having "the most fun" ever with the current judging lineup of Gary Barlow, Nicole Scherzinger and Sharon Osbourne as it's "the first time in X Factor history that the judges get on".
He also said that he has tried...
The long-running judge revealed that he expects Cowell to take back his place on the panel, which he held until 2010 before leaving to launch the Us version of the ITV show.
Speaking to Digital Spy and others, Walsh said: "Simon's coming back, I'm pretty certain of that. Simon, I think, is definitely coming back to X Factor.
"He's having some new faces on the panel. I'd say I'm 70% certain he'll come back."
Walsh - who recently admitted he was having a change of heart about his planned departure from the show - said that he was having "the most fun" ever with the current judging lineup of Gary Barlow, Nicole Scherzinger and Sharon Osbourne as it's "the first time in X Factor history that the judges get on".
He also said that he has tried...
- 12/12/2013
- Digital Spy
The X Factor duet partners for Sam Bailey, Nicholas McDonald and Luke Friend at this weekend's final, as well as their song choices, have been confirmed.
Bailey will perform Dreamgirls number 'And I Am Telling You' with X Factor judge Nicole Scherzinger, while McDonald will sing Westlife's 'Flying Without Wings' with the band's frontman Shane Filan, and Friend will join Ellie Goulding for a performance of 'Anything Can Happen'.
Scherzinger said: "I'm so excited to be singing with the beautiful and talented Sam Bailey. We're going to have so much fun and scha-diva it out this weekend on the X Factor stage! Stay tuned."
Goulding said of her duet with Friend: "I'm really excited to perform with lovely Luke He's a crazy talented singer and a good soul and to me that is the perfect combination.
"I love the tone of his voice and his stage presence.
Bailey will perform Dreamgirls number 'And I Am Telling You' with X Factor judge Nicole Scherzinger, while McDonald will sing Westlife's 'Flying Without Wings' with the band's frontman Shane Filan, and Friend will join Ellie Goulding for a performance of 'Anything Can Happen'.
Scherzinger said: "I'm so excited to be singing with the beautiful and talented Sam Bailey. We're going to have so much fun and scha-diva it out this weekend on the X Factor stage! Stay tuned."
Goulding said of her duet with Friend: "I'm really excited to perform with lovely Luke He's a crazy talented singer and a good soul and to me that is the perfect combination.
"I love the tone of his voice and his stage presence.
- 12/11/2013
- Digital Spy
James Corden has joked that he would like to take over from Gary Barlow on The X Factor.
The One Chance actor - who is good friends with the Take That singer - quipped that he is qualified to judge music acts due to his time in a boyband as a youngster.
However, he told Alan Carr on Chatty Man that he would prefer it if the judges took their roles more seriously.
He told Carr: "We should judge it! I love the show but I wish they would stop messing around with it.
"I am not a fan of this Flash Vote bulls**t. I love deadlock. When the judges don't vote and go, 'I abstain', I'm like, 'Shut up, you're paid millions to judge'."
He also revealed that his boyband were named Full Frontal, before changing their name to Insatiable.
He added: "I was Barlow, the fat one who wrote the songs.
The One Chance actor - who is good friends with the Take That singer - quipped that he is qualified to judge music acts due to his time in a boyband as a youngster.
However, he told Alan Carr on Chatty Man that he would prefer it if the judges took their roles more seriously.
He told Carr: "We should judge it! I love the show but I wish they would stop messing around with it.
"I am not a fan of this Flash Vote bulls**t. I love deadlock. When the judges don't vote and go, 'I abstain', I'm like, 'Shut up, you're paid millions to judge'."
He also revealed that his boyband were named Full Frontal, before changing their name to Insatiable.
He added: "I was Barlow, the fat one who wrote the songs.
- 11/1/2013
- Digital Spy
The first six acts to make it through to the X Factor 2013 Live Shows were revealed on Saturday (October 5).
Louis Walsh selected his acts in the Boys category with the help of Sinitta, Nicole Appleton and former Westlife member Shane Filan in St Tropez, while Sharon Osbourne and Robbie Williams teamed up in Los Angeles to choose the successful hopefuls in the Over 25s category.
Digital Spy presents a quick guide to the first six lucky acts.
Boys
Luke Friend
17-year-old student Luke was dubbed a "diamond in the rough" by Nicole Scherzinger during the audition stages, and was told by Gary Barlow at the arena auditions that he should "get used to" the fervent reception he received. Luke hails from Devon, and quipped that Louis Walsh told him he would have to wash his distinctive dreadlocks if he made it through to the Live Shows.
"The whole X Factor experience has been wonderful,...
Louis Walsh selected his acts in the Boys category with the help of Sinitta, Nicole Appleton and former Westlife member Shane Filan in St Tropez, while Sharon Osbourne and Robbie Williams teamed up in Los Angeles to choose the successful hopefuls in the Over 25s category.
Digital Spy presents a quick guide to the first six lucky acts.
Boys
Luke Friend
17-year-old student Luke was dubbed a "diamond in the rough" by Nicole Scherzinger during the audition stages, and was told by Gary Barlow at the arena auditions that he should "get used to" the fervent reception he received. Luke hails from Devon, and quipped that Louis Walsh told him he would have to wash his distinctive dreadlocks if he made it through to the Live Shows.
"The whole X Factor experience has been wonderful,...
- 10/5/2013
- Digital Spy
The X Factor has revealed the first contestants going through to this year's live shows.
Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh selected their top three Overs and Boys that will perform live on next Saturday night's (October 12) first live episode.
Osbourne selected Shelley Smith, Sam Bailey and Lorna Simpson as her final three following their performances at her home in Los Angeles.
Robbie Williams helped her make the difficult decision, which saw Joseph Whelan, Andrea Magee and Zoe Devlin eliminated from the competition.
On the reaction to her appearance on the show, Smith said: "So far the reaction has been lovely. I'm very new to Twitter, but my feed went absolutely ballistic and I even had celebrities tweeting me!"
Bailey added: "Having Sharon as my mentor is amazing; she gave me a massive hug and even made me a cup of tea at her house. The whole thing still doesn't feel real to me.
Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh selected their top three Overs and Boys that will perform live on next Saturday night's (October 12) first live episode.
Osbourne selected Shelley Smith, Sam Bailey and Lorna Simpson as her final three following their performances at her home in Los Angeles.
Robbie Williams helped her make the difficult decision, which saw Joseph Whelan, Andrea Magee and Zoe Devlin eliminated from the competition.
On the reaction to her appearance on the show, Smith said: "So far the reaction has been lovely. I'm very new to Twitter, but my feed went absolutely ballistic and I even had celebrities tweeting me!"
Bailey added: "Having Sharon as my mentor is amazing; she gave me a massive hug and even made me a cup of tea at her house. The whole thing still doesn't feel real to me.
- 10/5/2013
- Digital Spy
Shane Filan is shown in tears after hopeful Nicholas McDonald performs at Judges' Houses on The X Factor this weekend.
The 34-year-old former Westlife singer has assisted judge Louis Walsh with his 'Boys' category in the South of France alongside Nicole Appleton and Sinitta.
Scottish singer McDonald performs Daniel Bedingfield's 'If You're Not the One' to try and win a place in the live finals of the ITV talent show.
After his performance, Appleton and Sinitta quiz the 16-year-old on why he deserves to progress in the competition, which makes McDonald cry.
Filan then breaks down in tears and says: "That's so hard to watch. That's so hard to watch. I know exactly how he feels. I can't believe I'm crying."
The live finalists for The X Factor will be revealed this weekend, with the lineup confirmed on Sunday (October 6).
The 34-year-old former Westlife singer has assisted judge Louis Walsh with his 'Boys' category in the South of France alongside Nicole Appleton and Sinitta.
Scottish singer McDonald performs Daniel Bedingfield's 'If You're Not the One' to try and win a place in the live finals of the ITV talent show.
After his performance, Appleton and Sinitta quiz the 16-year-old on why he deserves to progress in the competition, which makes McDonald cry.
Filan then breaks down in tears and says: "That's so hard to watch. That's so hard to watch. I know exactly how he feels. I can't believe I'm crying."
The live finalists for The X Factor will be revealed this weekend, with the lineup confirmed on Sunday (October 6).
- 10/4/2013
- Digital Spy
Xtra Factor hosts Caroline Flack and Matt Richardson stomp grapes, play basketball and come face-to-face with former presenter Olly Murs in teaser images from Judges' Houses.
Flack shared behind-the-scenes pictures from filming on Instagram ahead of this weekend's double-bill.
One of the holiday snaps saw Murs reuniting with Flack and meeting his replacement Richardson for the first time as the singer helped Gary Barlow judge the groups in New York.
Meanwhile, Nicole Scherzinger shared a photo of herself surrounded by cameras in Antigua, where she and guest judge Mary J Blige will meet with the girls.
Sharon Osbourne will choose between the Over 25s with the help of Robbie Williams in Los Angeles, while Louis Walsh will be joined by Nicole Appleton, Sinitta and Shane Filan as he selects his top boys in Saint-Tropez.
The first official pictures from X Factor's Judges' Houses were released yesterday (October 1).
The X Factor...
Flack shared behind-the-scenes pictures from filming on Instagram ahead of this weekend's double-bill.
One of the holiday snaps saw Murs reuniting with Flack and meeting his replacement Richardson for the first time as the singer helped Gary Barlow judge the groups in New York.
Meanwhile, Nicole Scherzinger shared a photo of herself surrounded by cameras in Antigua, where she and guest judge Mary J Blige will meet with the girls.
Sharon Osbourne will choose between the Over 25s with the help of Robbie Williams in Los Angeles, while Louis Walsh will be joined by Nicole Appleton, Sinitta and Shane Filan as he selects his top boys in Saint-Tropez.
The first official pictures from X Factor's Judges' Houses were released yesterday (October 1).
The X Factor...
- 10/2/2013
- Digital Spy
The first Judges' Houses pictures from this year's X Factor, including snaps of Olly Murs returning to the show as a guest mentor, have been revealed.
The former contestant and Xtra Factor host will help Gary Barlow choose between groups Rough Copy, Code 4, Brick City, Xyra, Stop Look Listen and the newly-renamed Kingsland Road in New York.
Nicole Scherzinger will be joined by Mary J Blige in Antigua as she watches girls Abi Alton, Tamera Foster, Melanie McCabe, Hannah Barrett, Jade Richards and Relley Clarke.
Frequent guest judge Robbie Williams is teaming up with Sharon Osbourne in Los Angeles, where Over 25s Andrea Magee, Shelley Smith, Sam Bailey, Zoe Devlin, Joseph Whelan and Lorna Simpson will fight for a place in the live shows.
Meanwhile, Louis Walsh will be joined by a record three assistants - All Saints singer Nicole Appleton, Sinitta and Westlife's Shane Filan - as he...
The former contestant and Xtra Factor host will help Gary Barlow choose between groups Rough Copy, Code 4, Brick City, Xyra, Stop Look Listen and the newly-renamed Kingsland Road in New York.
Nicole Scherzinger will be joined by Mary J Blige in Antigua as she watches girls Abi Alton, Tamera Foster, Melanie McCabe, Hannah Barrett, Jade Richards and Relley Clarke.
Frequent guest judge Robbie Williams is teaming up with Sharon Osbourne in Los Angeles, where Over 25s Andrea Magee, Shelley Smith, Sam Bailey, Zoe Devlin, Joseph Whelan and Lorna Simpson will fight for a place in the live shows.
Meanwhile, Louis Walsh will be joined by a record three assistants - All Saints singer Nicole Appleton, Sinitta and Westlife's Shane Filan - as he...
- 10/1/2013
- Digital Spy
Louis Walsh has chosen his final six acts for the Judges' Houses stage of the X Factor.
Walsh will welcome Luke Friend, Giles Potter, Nicholas McDonald, Paul Akister, Ryan Mathie and Sam Callahan in San Tropez, alongside his three guest mentors.
All Saints singer Nicole Appleton, former Westlife star Shane Filan and Sinitta will help Walsh choose the final three acts to reach the live shows.
Giles, 16, auditioned for The X Factor as soon as he was old enough. The student gained approval with Jessie J's 'Price Tag' in the room auditions, and after faltering at the arena, came back with 'I Won't Give Up' by Jason Mraz to win his place in San Tropez.
Dreadlock-haired Luke gigs alongside part-time work and studying. The 17-year-old performed 'Alone' by Heart at Boot Camp.
Nicholas, 16, is already an experienced performer at venues in his hometown of Motherwell. He won his place...
Walsh will welcome Luke Friend, Giles Potter, Nicholas McDonald, Paul Akister, Ryan Mathie and Sam Callahan in San Tropez, alongside his three guest mentors.
All Saints singer Nicole Appleton, former Westlife star Shane Filan and Sinitta will help Walsh choose the final three acts to reach the live shows.
Giles, 16, auditioned for The X Factor as soon as he was old enough. The student gained approval with Jessie J's 'Price Tag' in the room auditions, and after faltering at the arena, came back with 'I Won't Give Up' by Jason Mraz to win his place in San Tropez.
Dreadlock-haired Luke gigs alongside part-time work and studying. The 17-year-old performed 'Alone' by Heart at Boot Camp.
Nicholas, 16, is already an experienced performer at venues in his hometown of Motherwell. He won his place...
- 9/29/2013
- Digital Spy
This year's X Factor Judges' Houses locations have been revealed, as the 24 final acts prepare to seal their place in the finals.
Yesterday (September 28), Nicole Scherzinger's final Boot Camp picks were revealed after a nail-biting twist. Abi Alton, Tamera Foster, Hannah Barrett, Jade Richards, Relley Clarke and Melanie McCabe will join Scherzinger in Antigua with Mary J Blige.
The Judges' Houses locations for Gary Barlow, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh have now been confirmed, along with the guest mentors helping them make crucial choices ahead of the live shows.
Barlow's final six groups will head to New York to perform for the veteran boyband star, who will be joined by former X Factor contestant Olly Murs. The over-25s will join Osbourne in Los Angeles, where Robbie Williams will return as a guest mentor.
Meanwhile, Walsh has three professionals on hand as he selects the final acts for the boys category.
Yesterday (September 28), Nicole Scherzinger's final Boot Camp picks were revealed after a nail-biting twist. Abi Alton, Tamera Foster, Hannah Barrett, Jade Richards, Relley Clarke and Melanie McCabe will join Scherzinger in Antigua with Mary J Blige.
The Judges' Houses locations for Gary Barlow, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh have now been confirmed, along with the guest mentors helping them make crucial choices ahead of the live shows.
Barlow's final six groups will head to New York to perform for the veteran boyband star, who will be joined by former X Factor contestant Olly Murs. The over-25s will join Osbourne in Los Angeles, where Robbie Williams will return as a guest mentor.
Meanwhile, Walsh has three professionals on hand as he selects the final acts for the boys category.
- 9/29/2013
- Digital Spy
Olly Murs has confirmed his appearance on The X Factor this series.
The former runner-up had been rumoured to be joining Gary Barlow as an advisor during the Judges' Houses stage of the competition next month.
Hey all, so there have been loads of rumours about it & I can confirm that Yes I'll be @GaryBarlow 's Guest Judge on this year's @TheXFactor
— Olly Murs (@ollyofficial) September 25, 2013
Murs later joked: "And be prepared.... #TheNewMrNasty lol ;)"
Robbie Williams - who has toured with Olly Murs this year - is rumoured to have joined Sharon Osbourne for the Judges' Houses stage.
Mary J Blige will reportedly help Nicole Scherzinger, while Louis Walsh will be joined by Westlife's Shane Filan, All Saints star Nicole Appleton and Sinitta.
Murs is rumoured to be dating an aspiring model named Francesca Thomas, whom he met at one of his shows.
The X Factor continues on Saturday (September 28) at 8pm on ITV.
The former runner-up had been rumoured to be joining Gary Barlow as an advisor during the Judges' Houses stage of the competition next month.
Hey all, so there have been loads of rumours about it & I can confirm that Yes I'll be @GaryBarlow 's Guest Judge on this year's @TheXFactor
— Olly Murs (@ollyofficial) September 25, 2013
Murs later joked: "And be prepared.... #TheNewMrNasty lol ;)"
Robbie Williams - who has toured with Olly Murs this year - is rumoured to have joined Sharon Osbourne for the Judges' Houses stage.
Mary J Blige will reportedly help Nicole Scherzinger, while Louis Walsh will be joined by Westlife's Shane Filan, All Saints star Nicole Appleton and Sinitta.
Murs is rumoured to be dating an aspiring model named Francesca Thomas, whom he met at one of his shows.
The X Factor continues on Saturday (September 28) at 8pm on ITV.
- 9/25/2013
- Digital Spy
Caroline Flack has given The X Factor fans a behind-the-scenes look at this year's Judges' Houses stage.
The Xtra Factor host is currently in the Caribbean as Nicole Scherzinger chooses the three acts she will take through to live shows.
The 'Don't Hold Your Breath' star is mentoring the Girls category on this year's show and has taken them to Antigua to film the Judges' Houses scenes.
Louis Walsh recently took the Boys to Saint-Tropez with celebrity guests Nicole Appleton, Sinitta and Westlife's Shane Filan.
Robbie Williams is said to have joined Sharon Osbourne in La last weekend as she whittled down the Over 25s.
Meanwhile, Gary Barlow, who is mentoring the Groups, is thought to have filmed his Judges' Houses stage in New York with guest judge Olly Murs.
"Home from judges house for 19 hours...... Then it begins again... Anyone got spare eyes? Or a spare suitcase?" Flack...
The Xtra Factor host is currently in the Caribbean as Nicole Scherzinger chooses the three acts she will take through to live shows.
The 'Don't Hold Your Breath' star is mentoring the Girls category on this year's show and has taken them to Antigua to film the Judges' Houses scenes.
Louis Walsh recently took the Boys to Saint-Tropez with celebrity guests Nicole Appleton, Sinitta and Westlife's Shane Filan.
Robbie Williams is said to have joined Sharon Osbourne in La last weekend as she whittled down the Over 25s.
Meanwhile, Gary Barlow, who is mentoring the Groups, is thought to have filmed his Judges' Houses stage in New York with guest judge Olly Murs.
"Home from judges house for 19 hours...... Then it begins again... Anyone got spare eyes? Or a spare suitcase?" Flack...
- 9/18/2013
- Digital Spy
Big Brother twins Jack and Joe Glenny have finished fourth in this year's grand final.
The pair became the second housemate to leave the show during tonight's (August 19) final following the exit of Charlie Travers in fifth place beforehand.
Their eviction leaves Gina Rio, Dexter Koh and Sam Evans in the running for this year's crown and the show's £100,000 prize money.
They walked out of the famous doors to the sound of Westlife's 'You Raise Me Up', which they sung in the house during a phone call with former member Shane Filan.
During their interview with host Emma Willis, they voiced their opinions about fellow housemate Dexter Koh.
They said: "That boy is aggravating to hell!"
They explained that they think Dexter has played a game since day one and added that he has 'mugged off' Charlie by telling her he has romantic feelings for her.
They praised semi-finalist...
The pair became the second housemate to leave the show during tonight's (August 19) final following the exit of Charlie Travers in fifth place beforehand.
Their eviction leaves Gina Rio, Dexter Koh and Sam Evans in the running for this year's crown and the show's £100,000 prize money.
They walked out of the famous doors to the sound of Westlife's 'You Raise Me Up', which they sung in the house during a phone call with former member Shane Filan.
During their interview with host Emma Willis, they voiced their opinions about fellow housemate Dexter Koh.
They said: "That boy is aggravating to hell!"
They explained that they think Dexter has played a game since day one and added that he has 'mugged off' Charlie by telling her he has romantic feelings for her.
They praised semi-finalist...
- 8/19/2013
- Digital Spy
Shane Filan has reportedly signed a new record deal. The Westlife singer is said to have agreed a contract with London Records in order to kickstart his solo career, according to The Sun. Filan is allegedly close to finishing his debut solo album, and hopes to release it at some point in 2013. Former bandmate Mark Feehily is also said to be close to launching his own solo career, teaming up with Sir Paul McCartney's manager to find a record (more)...
- 12/20/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
London, June 24: Westlife Boy Band performed their last ever concert at Croke Park in Dublin, which was screened live to cinemas in the UK, Ireland and across Europe.
The chart-topping quartet Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Shane Filan and Mark Feehily are bowing out after 14 years in the business.
The group, who have scored 14 number one singles in the UK and more than two dozen.
The chart-topping quartet Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Shane Filan and Mark Feehily are bowing out after 14 years in the business.
The group, who have scored 14 number one singles in the UK and more than two dozen.
- 6/24/2012
- by Smith Cox
- RealBollywood.com
Shane Filan hid his financial troubles from his bandmates and manager. The Westlife singer - who has three children, Nicole, six, Patrick, three, and two-year-old Peter with wife Gillian - was recently declared bankrupt with debts of £18 million but manager Louis Walsh admitted Shane kept it from him and the band until six months ago. Louis told the Daily Mirror newspaper: ''We didn't know it was that serious. He didn't tell us much because he didn't want to drag the boys down with it.'' As Westlife prepare to bow out after an almost 15 year career, Louis revealed Shane is hoping...
- 6/22/2012
- Virgin Media - Celebrity
Shane Filan hid his financial troubles from his bandmates and manager. The Westlife singer - who has three children, Nicole, six, Patrick, three, and two-year-old Peter with wife Gillian - was recently declared bankrupt with debts of £18 million but manager Louis Walsh admitted Shane kept it from him and the band until six months ago. Louis told the Daily Mirror newspaper: 'We didn't know it was that serious. He didn't tell us much because he didn't want to drag the boys down with it.' As Westlife prepare to bow out after an almost 15 year career, Louis revealed Shane is hoping to start rebuilding his life after they play their final concert in Dublin's Croke Park tomorrow (23.06.12). He...
- 6/22/2012
- Monsters and Critics
Shane Filan has been declared bankrupt due to debts of £18 million. The Westlife singer - who has three children, Nicole, six, Patrick, three, and two-year-old Peter with wife Gillian - has ''exhausted all other options'' in a last ditch attempt to save his failed property empire in Ireland. Shane spent ''months'' working with a team of financial experts to help him get out of trouble, but he has now been ruled officially bankrupt at Kingston County Court, Surrey. The 32-year-old star - who had to sell his Aston Martin for £322,000 - said: ''Together with a team of financial...
- 6/14/2012
- Virgin Media - Celebrity
Shane Filan has reportedly declared himself bankrupt. The Westlife singer is said to have run up debts of up to £18 million, according to The Sun. Filan's property firm Shafin Developments Ltd began running into troubles earlier this year owing around £4 million in April. He had begun a repayment plan for the debts, and had "exhausted all other options" before declaring himself bankrupt. "I have worked long and hard to reduce my debts, and (more)...
- 6/14/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
Shane Filan has been declared bankrupt due to debts of £18 million. The Westlife singer - who has three children, Nicole, six, Patrick, three, and two-year-old Peter with wife Gillian - has 'exhausted all other options' in a last ditch attempt to save his failed property empire in Ireland. Shane spent 'months' working with a team of financial experts to help him get out of trouble, but he has now been ruled officially bankrupt at Kingston County Court, Surrey. The 32-year-old star - who had to sell his Aston Martin for £322,000 - said: 'Together with a team of financial and legal experts I have spent months exploring all possible alternatives to bankruptcy but to no avail.
- 6/14/2012
- Monsters and Critics
'It's been an amazing 14 years for us, and to top it off, to win this is really, really incredible,' Nicky Byrne says in a message to fans.
By Christina Garibaldi
Westlife
Photo: MTV News
Fans of Westlife spent the past two weeks tirelessly voting for their favorite group to win MTV's Battle of the Boy Bands, and all their hard work paid off.
On Monday, the Irish boy band won it all, defeating the Jonas Brothers in the final round.
And for all those Westlife fans: Don't think your voting went unnoticed. All four members, who are in London rehearsing for their upcoming farewell tour, took time out of their busy schedule to send over a message to MTV News thanking each and every one of you for their big win.
"Hi, MTV, we just found out that we've been voted the #1 ultimate boy band of all time. Thank you very much,...
By Christina Garibaldi
Westlife
Photo: MTV News
Fans of Westlife spent the past two weeks tirelessly voting for their favorite group to win MTV's Battle of the Boy Bands, and all their hard work paid off.
On Monday, the Irish boy band won it all, defeating the Jonas Brothers in the final round.
And for all those Westlife fans: Don't think your voting went unnoticed. All four members, who are in London rehearsing for their upcoming farewell tour, took time out of their busy schedule to send over a message to MTV News thanking each and every one of you for their big win.
"Hi, MTV, we just found out that we've been voted the #1 ultimate boy band of all time. Thank you very much,...
- 5/8/2012
- MTV Music News
Voting in the final round begins now, and the winner will be announced Monday.
By Christina Garibaldi
Joe Jonas and Westlife's Shane Filan
Photo: Getty Images
After nearly two weeks, some shocking eliminations and more than 10 million votes, MTV's Battle of the Boy Bands has gone from a field of 32 down to the final two. And the matchup will be a face-off between old and new. Irish boy band and international favorites Westlife will square off against the Jonas Brothers in the championship.
Voting in the final round begins now and will continue until Monday, May 7, at noon Et, and the winner will be announced shortly after.
Keep in mind that during the championship match-up, the results will be kept secret until we crown a winner.
It's been a long, hard-fought battle for both of these bands to make it to the championship. Westlife came into this competition as a true underdog.
By Christina Garibaldi
Joe Jonas and Westlife's Shane Filan
Photo: Getty Images
After nearly two weeks, some shocking eliminations and more than 10 million votes, MTV's Battle of the Boy Bands has gone from a field of 32 down to the final two. And the matchup will be a face-off between old and new. Irish boy band and international favorites Westlife will square off against the Jonas Brothers in the championship.
Voting in the final round begins now and will continue until Monday, May 7, at noon Et, and the winner will be announced shortly after.
Keep in mind that during the championship match-up, the results will be kept secret until we crown a winner.
It's been a long, hard-fought battle for both of these bands to make it to the championship. Westlife came into this competition as a true underdog.
- 5/4/2012
- MTV Music News
Shane Filan's property company is reportedly facing a court battle over large debts. The Westlife singer's firm Shafin Developments Ltd began running into troubles and now owes around £4 million, reports The Sun. He has reportedly applied for legal agreements in London this week in order to set up a repayment plan. A source said: "Shane was desperate to launch himself as a property tycoon when Westlife started to wind down. But it has backfired massively. The property company is saddled with millions of debt. "It's been disastrous timing for him to invest in property amid a global economic crisis. He's (more)...
- 4/6/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
Louis Walsh has predicted that Westlife frontman Shane Filan will have an "amazing" solo career after the band split. The 'Lighthouse' group confirmed in October that they will go their separate ways after 14 years in the industry following a farewell tour next May. X Factor judge and Westlife manager Walsh has now revealed that he is more interested in crafting a solo career for Filan over the 32-year-old's bandmates Kian Egan, Nicky Byrne and Mark Feehily. Walsh told The Mirror: "I'm going to manage Shane Filan. He's going for the Michael Buble market. They're all good but I can only manage (more)...
- 12/19/2011
- by By Daniel Sperling
- Digital Spy
London, Dec 12: Westlife performed an emotional swansong at the final 'X Factor' show marking their last song after announcing their split.
The iconic Irish 'boy' band took to the stage at the Wembley arena for the show's final, singing 'What About Now' to the 10,000 strong crowds.
The five took their traditional positions standing simply in a row behind their mikes for the emotional last performance.
"Great atmosphere down at the xfactor ! Coldplay next door to us! Defo watching their rehearsal Class," the Daily Mail quoted Shane Filan as tweeting from backstage before their last performance.
But Kian Egan was.
The iconic Irish 'boy' band took to the stage at the Wembley arena for the show's final, singing 'What About Now' to the 10,000 strong crowds.
The five took their traditional positions standing simply in a row behind their mikes for the emotional last performance.
"Great atmosphere down at the xfactor ! Coldplay next door to us! Defo watching their rehearsal Class," the Daily Mail quoted Shane Filan as tweeting from backstage before their last performance.
But Kian Egan was.
- 12/12/2011
- by Machan Kumar
- RealBollywood.com
Westlife have claimed that their manager Louis Walsh was behind some of the more exaggerated press stories about them. The group said that the X Factor judge would leak stories to the tabloids to gain them press. Shane Filan told Metro: "Louis will deny to the last he's had anything to do with any of those stories but I suspect he did. "There was one that I'd broken my back and was in a wheelchair - that was on the front page of one tabloid. The reality was I'd fallen off stage in Asia on to a drum kit. I'd hurt myself but that became exaggerated a bit." Filan added: "There was one that Kian was chased by lion. I think that came from us going on a safari in Africa and a lion (more)...
- 12/1/2011
- by By Lewis Corner
- Digital Spy
London, Nov 16: Westlife has released their greatest hits album ahead of their last tour and have revealed that now that their 2012 split has been announced, they are back to enjoying their life in the group.
The band, who appeared on shopping channel QVC to promote the album, feel a weight has been lifted now they're calling time after 14 years.
The band mates Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Mark Feehily, and Shane Filan, said that they were looking forward to showing the world that there was more to them than bar stools and ballads.
"We were all so worried and passionate about making the right choices it created a big ball of.
The band, who appeared on shopping channel QVC to promote the album, feel a weight has been lifted now they're calling time after 14 years.
The band mates Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Mark Feehily, and Shane Filan, said that they were looking forward to showing the world that there was more to them than bar stools and ballads.
"We were all so worried and passionate about making the right choices it created a big ball of.
- 11/16/2011
- by Amith Ostwal
- RealBollywood.com
Westlife members Shane Filan, Kian Egan, Mark Feehily and Nicky Byrne have all thought about going solo. The Irish boyband announced last month that they would split in 2012, following their farewell arena tour. Speaking to The Sun, Filan said: "The first person to decide to do a solo record, the other three will all be there. "Everyone's thought about going solo - (more)...
- 11/5/2011
- by By Beth Curtis
- Digital Spy
Westlife will make their last TV appearance later this year, ITV has revealed. The 'Flying Without Wings' boyband, who announced their plans to split last week, have signed up for a one-off special for ITV1. Westlife: For The Last Time will see Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Mark Feehily and Shane Filan sing their greatest hits in front of a studio audience, as well as partake in behind-the-scenes interviews. Commissioned by ITV's controller of entertainment John Kaye (more)...
- 10/24/2011
- by By Paul Millar
- Digital Spy
London, Oct 21: Irish boy band Westlife are set to part ways after 14 years of being together.
The group consisting of Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Mark Feehily and Shane Filan have sold over 44 million albums worldwide. They plan to split after the 'Greatest Hits' record this Christmas and farewell tour next year, reports contactmusic.com.
'Over the years, Westlife has become so much more to us than just a band, we are a family. We would like to thank our fans who have been with us on this amazing journey and are part of our family too,' the band said on their website
A source close to the group denied speculation of a rift, saying, 'There's no bad blood in the band, they're still great pals. But all good things.
The group consisting of Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Mark Feehily and Shane Filan have sold over 44 million albums worldwide. They plan to split after the 'Greatest Hits' record this Christmas and farewell tour next year, reports contactmusic.com.
'Over the years, Westlife has become so much more to us than just a band, we are a family. We would like to thank our fans who have been with us on this amazing journey and are part of our family too,' the band said on their website
A source close to the group denied speculation of a rift, saying, 'There's no bad blood in the band, they're still great pals. But all good things.
- 10/21/2011
- by Meeta Kabra
- RealBollywood.com
After fourteen years as one of the greatest pop acts in the world, Irish mega-sellers Westlife have announced that they will be calling it a day following the release of their Greatest Hits collection this Christmas and a no-doubt sell-out farewell tour next year.
The bad formed back in 1998 under manager Simon Cowell, and went on to achieve the impressive feat of having their first seven UK singles debut at number one, before Louis Walsh took over the reigns. Originally a five piece, the line-up became a quartet when Brian McFadden left in 2004 to concentrate on his solo career, leaving Shane Filan, Mark Feehily, Kian Egan and Nicky Byrne
The band released the following statement on their website earlier this evening:
The decision will no doubt break the hearts of Westlife’s legion of fans, but the band insist the split is amicable, so who’s to say that they...
The bad formed back in 1998 under manager Simon Cowell, and went on to achieve the impressive feat of having their first seven UK singles debut at number one, before Louis Walsh took over the reigns. Originally a five piece, the line-up became a quartet when Brian McFadden left in 2004 to concentrate on his solo career, leaving Shane Filan, Mark Feehily, Kian Egan and Nicky Byrne
The band released the following statement on their website earlier this evening:
The decision will no doubt break the hearts of Westlife’s legion of fans, but the band insist the split is amicable, so who’s to say that they...
- 10/20/2011
- by Simon Gallagher
- Obsessed with Film
Westlife have announced that they are to part ways next year. The World of Our Own boyband, made up of Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Mark Feehily and Shane Filan, said in a statement that they "want to have a well-earned break". They will bow out with a farewell tour in May 2012, playing nine gigs in most major cities in the UK. In a statement, Westlife said: "Today we announce our plan to go our separate ways after a greatest hits collection this Christmas and a farewell tour next year. "The decision is entirely amicable and after spending all of our adult life together so far, we want to have a well-earned break and look at new ventures. "Over the years Westlife has become so much more to us than just a band. Westlife are a family. We would like to thank our fans who have been with us on this...
- 10/19/2011
- by By Paul Millar
- Digital Spy
Shane Filan has stood up for his manager Louis Walsh and insisted that he did Not molest a man during their recent night out.
The Westlife singer denies reports that The ‘X Factor’ judge was inappropriate with a 24-year-old dad, when he allegedly groped his groin area in the toilets of a Dublin bar in April. In fact Filan insists that Louis barely even spoke to the man.
Shane told the Sunday Mirror newspaper: “I was with Louis on the night this supposedly happened and I’m 100 per cent that he is innocent.
“Louis, me, my wife and the boys were at a table minding our own business.
“This guy came up and said he was going to be in a dance TV show. Louis wasn’t talking to the guy any more than the rest of us. I didn’t see him go off with this guy. Not to the toilet or anywhere else.
The Westlife singer denies reports that The ‘X Factor’ judge was inappropriate with a 24-year-old dad, when he allegedly groped his groin area in the toilets of a Dublin bar in April. In fact Filan insists that Louis barely even spoke to the man.
Shane told the Sunday Mirror newspaper: “I was with Louis on the night this supposedly happened and I’m 100 per cent that he is innocent.
“Louis, me, my wife and the boys were at a table minding our own business.
“This guy came up and said he was going to be in a dance TV show. Louis wasn’t talking to the guy any more than the rest of us. I didn’t see him go off with this guy. Not to the toilet or anywhere else.
- 6/26/2011
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
Louis Walsh is "100 per cent innocent" regarding claims he sexually assaulted a man. The 'X Factor' judge - who is accused of molesting a 24-year-old dad by groping his groin area after they met in a Dublin bar in April - only spoke briefly to the alleged victim according to Westlife star Shane Filan. Shane told the Sunday Mirror newspaper: "I was with Louis on the night this supposedly happened and I'm 100 per cent that he is innocent. "Louis, me, my wife and the boys were at a table minding our own business. "This guy came up and said he...
- 6/23/2011
- Virgin Media - TV
Westlife have left Simon Cowell's entertainment company Syco. After 13 years working together with the label, the band, whose current lineup comprises Mark Feehily, Shane Filan, Kian Egan, and Nicky Byrne, decided to ink a multi-million deal with Sony RCA.
While some of the members keep quiet, Nicky and Mark announced the departure through their Twitter accounts. Nicky wrote, "Re Syco .. Truth is yes we have moved on from Syco records after a fantastic 13years.. But it is time for a change and it's very exciting..!" Mark added, "Time for a new chapter. We are still very young&have lots of energy left in us so here's 2 the future! New label,new lease of 'life'! X"
Similarly, Louis Walsh, the band's manager, believes the departure is natural. According to The Sun, the manager, who is also a judge of "The X Factor", said, "The move is a natural progression. There was no bad feeling.
While some of the members keep quiet, Nicky and Mark announced the departure through their Twitter accounts. Nicky wrote, "Re Syco .. Truth is yes we have moved on from Syco records after a fantastic 13years.. But it is time for a change and it's very exciting..!" Mark added, "Time for a new chapter. We are still very young&have lots of energy left in us so here's 2 the future! New label,new lease of 'life'! X"
Similarly, Louis Walsh, the band's manager, believes the departure is natural. According to The Sun, the manager, who is also a judge of "The X Factor", said, "The move is a natural progression. There was no bad feeling.
- 3/14/2011
- by celebrity-mania.com
- Celebrity Mania
London, Dec 28 – Irish pop stars Westlife have made a promise that they will never split and pursue solo careers.
The ‘Swear It Again’ hitmakers were rocked when singer Brian McFadden quit the group in 2004, sparking fears the band was over for good.
But the four remaining members stayed together and continued to enjoy chart success – and singer Shane Filan is adamant a break-up is not on the horizon.
“It just doesn’t appeal to us. We.
The ‘Swear It Again’ hitmakers were rocked when singer Brian McFadden quit the group in 2004, sparking fears the band was over for good.
But the four remaining members stayed together and continued to enjoy chart success – and singer Shane Filan is adamant a break-up is not on the horizon.
“It just doesn’t appeal to us. We.
- 12/28/2010
- by News
- RealBollywood.com
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