'I wanted Simon Cowell' X Factor's Kiera Weathers admits Rita Ora wasn't her first choice
SHE'S one of Rita Ora's final contestants on this year's run of The X Factor, but Kiera Weathers has admitted that it was actually Simon Cowell she had her heart set on being mentored by.
Kiera is happy with Rita but originally wanted Simon
The talented singer, 18, has consistently impressed all four panelists throughout her time on the competition so far, but it was the head judge - who himself made no secret of the fact he wanted the Girls category - that she initially wanted.
"I initially wanted Simon as I felt I'd bonded with him," she told OK!
"But once I'd spoken to Rita I knew she had our backs. She's one of the girls now."
Rita now has more on her plate than any other judge, as Monica Michael - who was not chosen during Sunday's Judges' Houses episode - has returned to the contest as this year's Wild Card.
Rita chose Kiera as well as Louisa and Lauren on Sunday
Kiera's first audition was a real standout
Once I'd spoken to Rita I knew she had our backs
She joins Kiera, Louisa Johnson and Lauren Murray in the Final 13, with Louisa tipped by bookies to emerge as the winner in December.
It's going to be a high-pressure few weeks for them all, but Kiera credits her boyfriend Jamie with keeping her feet on the ground.
"Jamie and I have been together a year - he's great. He's 24 and works as a roofer," she said.
"He protects me and encourages me to think things through as I can be a bit rash."
Kiera was emotional at being picked by Rita
Last night Kiera and Lauren were picked by Rita to join her at the KISS Haunted House Party.
The hopeful posted on Twitter afterwards: "Seriously had the best night of my life!!! Thankyou so much Rita!!"
The X Factor continues on Saturday on ITV with the first live show.
Seriously had the best night of my life!!! Thankyou so much Rita!! pic.twitter.com/DgGK80Btks
— • K I E R A • (@kieraweathers1) October 29, 2015