X Factor latest

Shock exit for one act after vote goes to deadlock...

10:43 21 November 2011

Craig Colton has become the latest act to leave The X Factor.

The 22-year-old was eliminated from the contest after the judgesÂ’ votes took the competition to deadlock for the first time this series, receiving fewer votes than fellow bottom two act, Amelia Lily.

Colton decided to sing The ShirellesÂ’ Will You Love Me Tomorrow as his safety song, while Lily performed You & I by Lady Gaga.

Gary Barlow chose to save his act, and sparked controversy after attacking Amelia LilyÂ’s performance, claiming that she "shouted her way through" the song and telling Craig:

"I thought your [song] was beautiful, understated and absolutely gorgeous."

Kelly Rowland backed her own act and immediately defended Lily from Barlow's accusation, saying:

"My darling, you did not shout your way through that song. All you have to do is sing it, which is exactly what you did tonight."

Tulisa Contostavlos sided with Barlow and saved Colton, while Louis Walsh opted to save Lily for another week, taking the decision to deadlock.

After his exit was announced, Colton commented:

"I've had the time of my life these last few months and [Barlow] did it all with me... I've done myself proud."

Meanwhile, there was more bad news for show boss Simon Cowell, as the competition was once again beaten by Strictly Come Dancing in the ratings by over one million viewers.

The X Factor continues next Saturday at 8pm on ITV1.