Mahalia Simpson’s amazing run on The X Factor has ended after she was eliminated last night just shy of the semi-finals.
The 23-year-old couldn’t survive her fourth elimination showdown, losing out to Big T, who made his first appearance in the bottom two tonight.
The pair sang off against each other in the ultimate decider. Big T soared with his rendition of R. Kelly’s I Believe I Can Fly while Mahalia gave it her all singing Miley’s The Climb.
It was the toughest and most emotional decision yet with the judges forced into deadlock. With two votes each, it came down to the public vote.
With the lowest number of votes, The X Factor dream was over for Mahalia. The shy singer has blossomed since the start of the competition and captured the hearts of Australians with her unique sound.
“It’s been a journey of finding confidence in myself,” she said. “I feel I can take a lot away from this. Thanks to Dannii for everything she’s done and to all the fans.”
Mahalia was Dannii’s last remaining act on the show. “Mahalia has done the biggest climb during this competition,” she said. “It’s been incredible to watch and be a part of.”
Chris Isaak still has two contestants vying for the 2015 crown – Cyrus and Big T. Louise Adams is flying the flag for James Blunt while Jess & Matt is Guy Sebastian’s remaining hope.
Next week the top four will sing not one but two songs each as they fight for their place in the Grand Final.
The X Factor continues Monday and Tuesday 7.30pm on Seven. –