'I worked with Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne - this is what they were really like'

A former X Factor contestant has opened up about his experiences on the show and his relationships with the judges, including how he grew close to Sharon Osbourne and her husband, Ozzy. Ray Quinn, 36, has the ITV singing competition to thank for his shot at stardom, when he appeared on series 3 of the X Factor in 2006.

Ray gained further national television exposure when he won season four of Dancing On Ice in 2009 and the all-star edition in 2014. During his time on X Factor, Ray impressed both the judges and the nation, ultimately finishing as runner-up to Leona Lewis. Speaking to Smooth Spins, the former X Factor star shared some behind-the-scenes insights. Ray revealed that Simon Cowell, the creator and judge of X Factor, had a "softer side". He said that after every performance, Simon would put an arm around him and offer praise. The former Brookside actor added: "He cared and wanted me to do well. He would always say he felt proud of me."

However, over the years, the two have lost contact, but Ray still "looks back" fondly. He also shared his warm memories of judge Sharon Osbourne.

Sharon served as a judge on The X Factor UK for a total of seven years, spanning across four different series. She was on the panel from 2004 to 2007, then again in 2013, and from 2016 to 2017.

Speaking about Sharon, Ray revealed: "Sharon was a big part of my life, even after the show. When I flew out to LA to record my album, she reached out and invited me to her house for dinner.

I went to their Beverly Hills home that was featured on their reality show The Osbournes, so that was pretty surreal. Ozzy was there too, and he was such an amazing guy.

"I remember we sat down and had lamb to eat and lots of cups of tea. There were about 20 dogs running around, and Sharon even let me walk one around the neighbourhood."

Ray described Ozzy as "so kind" and recalled the rock legend asking about his music, before telling him to "keep going" and enjoy every minute.

The Scouser added: "It was like sitting with one of my mates' dads. He showed me all of his paintings that he liked to do too. He had a little art studio by the pool, and there were loads on the walls. He was a great artist and a wonderful man."

Eight days following his passing, Ozzy Osbourne made his last journey through his hometown of Birmingham, as fans, friends and family bid their farewells this afternoon.