X Factor finalist claims 'I did see things' amid industry backlash for Liam Payne death: 'Was one of the lucky ones'
WATCH HERE: Former X Factor star Katie Waissel talks about the duty of care for people in the music industry
GB NEWS
Talia Dean, who made it to the final of ITV's X Factor back in 2017, has teamed up with Queen legend Brian May as they collaborated for a new song, You Made Your Bed.
Speaking exclusively to GB News, Dean, 39, reflected on her X Factor experience amid high profile criticisms of the show in the wake of One Direction star Liam Payne's tragic death last month.
"It's difficult, isn't it, because I was treated really well," Dean told this publication when asked about the recent controversies about the Simon Cowell-led talent show, which aired from 2004 to 2018.
"But I'm very aware that I was one of the lucky ones," she admitted.
"I feel blessed by that, because you know, I got brought to the finals.
"I was very liked. I was treated well, but I did see things that if they had have happened to me, I would have been devastated."
Talia Dean has recently collaborated with Brian May
Commenting on the show's habit of showcasing auditions and acts for comical purposes, she added: "I think they've realised that the whole attitude of, 'let's make fun of someone for ratings,' that has to stop.
"But it's like but all that's happened is that the world of X Factor is now just on social media.
"So that kind of bullying mentality of, 'let's laugh at someone that doesn't sing very well, because it brings views,' that's just gone from X Factor to social media.
"It's not stopped at somebody singing badly or having an accident while singing. Negative feedback will go a lot more viral than actual talent.
One Direction star Liam Payne died on October 16 after falling from a hotel balcony
Getty
"I would say they really need to nurture the talent and bring it back to basics of let's find real stars.
"Let's find real talent and let's not create a panto. There needed to be more contestant care."
Questions regarding the reality show have been raised for years, but following the death of singer Payne, 31, the topic once again came to light.
Following Payne's death following a fall from a hotel balcony in Argentina, several X Factor stars didn't hold back as they blamed the show - and 65-year-old Cowell - for "exploiting" young talent.
Katie Waissel issued a stern warning on X as she penned the following day: "My heart is completely torn to shreds right now, I am at an absolute loss for words.
"If Simon Cowell dare put a statement out on the heart wrenching, tragic loss of my dear and darling friend Liam, he would be a fool.
"We all know the truth… and I’ll be sure it all comes out. #justiceforliam." (sic)
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Talia Dean recalled that she did 'see things' on X Factor
Getty
Likewise, Rebecca Ferguson wrote: "It’s always a hotel room! We both met at Euston station and shared the taxi together to X factor, young, innocent and unaffected by fame.
"I can’t help but think of that boy who was hopeful and looking forward to his bright future ahead. If he hadn’t jumped on that train and jumped in that taxi I believe he would be alive today.
"I’ve spoken for years about the exploitation and profiteering of young stars and the effects – many of us are still living with the aftermath and the PTSD.
"Many of us are devastated and reflective today as it has finally taken its first victim. Rest in Peace Liam, I hope you find peace on the other side and love to your mum and family x." (sic)
You may like
