A FORMER X Factor contestant is making a welcome return to national television on ITV's latest singing show.
Gathan Cheema, from Bransford, Worcester, who appeared on the talent show in 2012, has revealed he will be appearing on Starstruck later this month.
The ITV series, airing weekly on Saturday night prime time, sees ordinary members of the public with an exceptional talent team up to transform into some of the world’s biggest music stars.
The broadcaster's rules mean the 31-year-old is having to remain tight-lipped about his appearance and which mega star he will be transforming into on the programme, which is broadcasting on the channel on Saturday, September 26.
Mr Cheema could say though that he has kept up his performing over the years since his X Factor appearance.
"I've still been performing," he said.
"I've been doing my tributes, Michael Jackson and Bruno Mars, people will recognise me from those shows.
"Covid of course proved difficulty, but thankfully it has started to pick up again."
In recent years Mr Cheema has also been caring for son Addison with mum Katie Rule. As we reported in 2020 medics saved baby Addison's life after he had a heart attack at just four months old.
Addison survived against the odds, Miss Rule calling him a "true superhero". Providing an update Mr Cheema said: "He is doing so well now, he is two and running around.
"He is not out the woods, he will definitely need more surgery, but as it stands he is growing well."
Mr Cheema, who chopped his hair to help the Little Princess Trust and raised money for Birmingham Children's Hospital, said he is now planning other fundraisers including taking part in the Berlin Skate Marathon next year.
Gathan appeared on the X Factor in 2012 where he made it boot camp. His performance of Respect by Aretha Franklin earned him a place in the final stages of boot camp but his cover of Maroon 5’s Payphone, did not cut it with the judges.
Olly Murs hosts Starstruck, with actress Sheridan Smith, Queen frontman Adam Lambert, comedian Jason Manford and musical theatre star Beverley Knight on the panel.
Shows are broadcast on ITV1, or catch up on the ITV Hub.
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