Michael Jackson's 'X Factor'

8 October 2007 - Michael Jackson is to make a shock appearance on 'The X Factor'.

The pop superstar has been signed up to mentor contestants on the hit ITV singing contest for a show to be broadcast on December 1. The 'Thriller' singer will even perform on stage for ITV.

A source said: "We've got some huge names but Michael Jackson really is a sensational signing. He is a truly global, worldwide superstar. And this will be his first TV appearance in Britain since the controversial Martin Bashir interview when he complained of the way he was portrayed. Given his background with ITV, it's even more astonishing that he agreed to do it."

Jackson is among an impressive list of stars including Celine Dion, Rihanna, Kylie Minogue, Westlife, and Mariah Carey who have already agreed to perform and appear as mentors on 'The X Factor'.

Saturday's show (06.10.05) saw acts cut down to the final line-up, leaving many with their dreams dashed and others delighted.

Boyband Futureproof and five-piece girlband Hope - both of whom contain members who failed to get through as solo performers - have already been installed as favourites to win.

They will be joined in the final by brother and sister duo Same Difference.

The individual boys under 24 category will be made up of Leon Jackson, 18, asbestos fitter Andy Williams, 22 and Welsh opera singer Rhydian Roberts, 24.

They are joined by female under 24 singers Alisha Bennett, 23, Emily Nakanda, 15, and 19-year-old Kimberley Southwick.

The over 25s group features 37-year-old teacher Beverley Trotman, Niki Evans, 34 and 31-yearold single dad Daniel De Bourg.

(C) BANG Media International