Jade Thirlwall Criticizes 'X Factor' for Harmful Mental Health Impact

The Little Mix star reflects on the competition's toll on contestants while acknowledging its role in launching her career.

Jade Thirlwall, 32, shared that nearly all 'X Factor' contestants, including herself, faced mental health challenges after the show.
She described the competition's environment as harsh, with inadequate safeguards for contestants' well-being during her time on the show.
Thirlwall noted that while the show provided valuable industry training, it left most participants struggling to transition back to normal life or sustain music careers.
She criticized the show's treatment of mentally unwell contestants and its use of 'joke acts,' calling it cruel and outdated.
Thirlwall, now pursuing a successful solo career, has released multiple singles and plans to drop her debut solo album in 2025.