The X Factor: Top Ten Worst Ever Auditions

16 August 2012, 10:00 | Updated: 4 December 2017, 11:10

We've rounded up ten of the most memorable first auditions from the famous talent show - famous for all the wrong reasons.

The first episode of The X Factor 2012 will air on Saturday 18th August as the judges search for the UK's next singing sensation.

Gary Barlow, Louis Walsh and Tulisa Contostavlos return to their familiar roles as judges, while Nicole Scherzinger has been confirmed as Kelly Rowland's replacement to complete the panel this year.

The auditions stage is often one of the highlights of the process as hopefuls sing their hearts out in their quest for stardom.

However, things don't always go to plan - and often with hilarious consequences.

Check out our top ten worst auditions of all time.

1.
Robert Unwin
Chicken factory worker Robert attempted to impress the judges with his versions of 'Tragedy' by the Bee Gees and Aqua's 'Barbie Girl'. Needless to say he didn't make it through to the next round with Simon labeling him, "The worst singer I've ever heard".
2.
Ariel Burdett

Holistic vocal coach Ariel describes herself as a generalist but her "academic construction" was described by Simon as a "complete and utter nightmare". The other judges looked on in fear of what might happen next during her audition.
3.
Rachel Lester
Rachel walked into the audition room with a certain swagger but it was soon extinguished when the judges were left unimpressed with her version of Sheena Easton's 1984 hit 'Sugar Walls'. Dumbfounded by their decision, she dished out a tirade of abuse before she was ejected by security.
4.
Debbie Stevens

Debbie was full of confidence at the start of her audition, saying that she was "amazing" and had what it takes to win. However, after a few criticisms of her version of 'Miracles', her true colours shone through and she attempted to throw a glass of water over Louis.
5.
Guylene Rosange
Guylene chose to perform Celion Dion's 'My Heart Will Go On' and was left disappointed as the judges struggled to hold back their laughter. She got four no's.
6.
Ablisa
Abby and Lisa, AKA Ablisa, got off to a bad start and it got progressively worse with their tantrums and abuse ending up in a full on bust-up.
7.
Holly Jervis

Holiday camp singer Holly was adamant she had what it takes to win The X Factor, saying "This is what I do". However, Simon wasn't impressed and said when she was singing her mouth was like "looking into a cave".
8.
Steven Yates

Yorkshire lad Steven rapped his way through Eminem's smash hit 'Stan' but failed to impress any of the judges. Look out for presenter Kate Thornton struggling to hold back her laughter when Steven attempts a freestyle rap outside.
9.
Michael Lewis

Michael's love of Michael Jackson is clear for all to see but unfortunately the judges didn't feel his dancing or singing were anywhere near the standards of his idol. Have a listen to his infamous spat with the crowd when he's finished.
10.
Emma Chawner
Emma was brave enough to take on Celine Dion's 'My Heart Will Go On' but unfortunately she wasn't up to scratch. Upon rejection, her parents come into the studio to air their frustration at Simon. However, Simon then lectures them and says it's their fault because they've given their daughter false hope.