Stephanie’s X Factor journey comes to an end

Stephanie performing for the X Factor judges

Stephanie McCourt’s X Factor journey came to an end during scenes broadcast on the show on Sunday night when she missed out on a place at next week’s judge’s houses.

The 27-year-old Londoner, who has strong Dundalk connections, initially received a chair in the six chair challenge after wowing with her performance of Aretha Franklin’s Never Loved A Man.

However, mentor Simon Cowell had doubts about Stephanie’s personality and ultimately it proved costly as she was swapped out for another contestant.

After her performance, Rita Ora raved: “I have always felt this individuality thing about you which I kind of like. It was pretty good.”

However Cheryl felt a disconnect and told the hopeful: “There is something for me at the moment that is not connecting with the audience and I don’t know what it is, I cannot put my finger on it.”

Simon took things a step too far though and he told Steph: “What she is saying is people don’t like you at the moment. I think the way you are is not very friendly and not very warm.”

Commenting on her Facebook page last night, Stephanie hinted she had bigger and better things ahead without the show though.

She said: “Hey guys! What an experience! Thanks for all the support, I loved every minute and would like to thank the X Factor team and Simon for the opportunity! P.s watch this space!”

Stephanie had initially booked her place in boot camp in scenes aired last month after impressing with her performance of Ella Fitzgerald’s classic hit, Summertime.

Stephanie’s dad, Dundalk-born Christopher, attended the auditions to support his daughter. Stephanie is the granddaughter of Jim and Audrey McCourt, from Bay Estate and has a large family circle in the area.

Stephanie sails through to X Factor boot camp

A singer with strong Dundalk connections stole the show with her performance of Ella Fitzgerald’s classic hit Summetime on Saturday night’s X Factor.

Stephanie McCourt received four yeses from the judge to reach the next round of the talent show.

The 27-year-old, who lives in London, failed to impress with her first rendition of Taylor Swift’s Shake It Off but recovered to sail through to the boot camp stage.

Rita Ora said: “It’s crazy how important it is to have the right song.”

Meanwhile Simon Cowell told her: “I don’t know who the idiots are who have knocked you back, but I think you’re 100% authentic. For me, it’s four yeses.”

Stephanie’s dad, Dundalk-born Christopher, attended the auditions to support his daughter. Stephanie is the granddaughter of Jim and Audrey McCourt, from Bay Estate and has a large family circle in the area.

Check out Stephanie’s performance above.