X Factor - Dannii Minogue interview
September 7 2007 - The X Factor's newest judge spoke to us about what it's been like working on the show so far.
Are you excited to be joining the show this year?
I have been a fan of The X Factor since the show started so I have to pinch myself to realise I am now on the set of my favourite show!
Are you excited to be working with the other Judges and has Simon been behaving?!
I know I'm working with the best TV personalities in the business and they have all been very generous in showing me the ropes. Simon would have to be the cheekiest, naughtiest boy I've ever met and is constantly making me laugh. The Judges spend most of the day catching up on gossip and trying to wind each other up – it's like being on school camp.
Are you going to be a nice or a nasty Judge?
You'll have to watch to find out!
What is the dynamic between the four of you like in the judging room?
Louis giggles more than a girl so we have nicknamed him "Louise". Sharon is always "fabulous" and the two of us are in constant competition to see who has the highest platforms and the most bling on. With Simon we all try to stay out of his way when he is slaying people with his honesty but most of the time Simon and I agree on who the good and bad contestants are. If not, I tell him he's wrong – it's the funniest way to wind him up! The British public managed to wind him up enough about his high waisted pants and he has stopped wearing those so I think our next mission should be his hair-do!
After seeing the auditions is there one particular category you would like to mentor?
The youngest kids (14 year olds) are amazing. They are so talented and fearless. The ones I love most are the ones that are neither cocky nor scared to show their vulnerability. We have also seen some amazing groups. I personally hope we can find the next 'Spice Girls' – and for the first time ever, I think all the Judges secretly want this category.
Who were the most memorable auditionees for you?
On day one I was blessed (or cursed!) with the singing of Susan who came to one of the London auditions! She was so bad and just kept on singing I laughed so much that tears squirted out of my eyes cartoon style.
What are the ingredients that you think make up the perfect star?
The perfect star is unique. We don't want any impersonators on this show. Talent, personality and a desire to be the next winner are the key ingredients.
What advice would you give to contestants taking part?
Be yourself and have fun. If you are having fun, then the audience will too. If you can have a bit of banter with the judges, that is good too – treat us like your mates and don't be scared to be a bit cheeky!
If you were a teenager would you audition for a show like this and if yes, what would your audition song be?
To tell you the truth, I don't think I could handle the pressure of this type of audition!
With your experience as a recording artist, how has this helped working on the show?
When I was young someone saw potential in me and helped me to become a recording artist. I can see sparks of stardom in some of our auditionees and I can't wait to give them some really practical advice once we get to Bootcamp. This is where I will be able to really help them fast track the learning of things such as studio performing techniques. Most of our contestants have never performed in a studio in front of a live audience – and that can be very daunting.
How do you get through the long audition days and do you enjoy the audition process?
It's the best fun – you just never know who is going to walk through the door next! We are sure this season is going to be the best yet – we are prepared to listen to everyone until we find "The One!" But by the time we finish all the auditions I probably won't want to hear 'Somewhere Over The Rainbow' or 'Summertime' for as long as I live!
Image (C) ITV Plc
