Lloyd Daniels put on a brave face tonight as his X Factor dream turned to tatters.
The 16-year-old, who had endured relentless criticism from judge Louis Walsh in recent weeks, was voted off by the public as the wannabes were whittled down to the final four.
But despite being described as ‘karaoke’ by Walsh before his exit, mentor Cheryl Cole predicted a bright future for blue-eyed Welsh teenager.
Urging him to be proud of his achievement, she told him: ‘He is only 16 - he has got loads of time to blossom into a real star.’
After learning he had received fewer votes than Olly Murs, Daniels fought back any tears as he said: ‘I have enjoyed every moment.’
The show featured its normal mix of stellar pop stars - this time Rihanna and Alicia Keys showed off their musical mettle.
The finalists began the show in camp and colourful fashion with an impression of Scissor Sisters' I Don't Feel Like Dancin'.
Joe McElderry has emerged as a favourite for the X Factor crown after continuing to wow the judges with ‘Could It Be Magic’ and ‘Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word’.
