The Tribune

By LESH

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

ELLONA Santiago’s X Factor USA exit last Thursday left her “shocked and speechless”. With tears in her eyes, Ellona told FOX reporters that she didn’t want to leave the stage because she could not believe it was her name that X Factor host Mario Lopez called.

Mario revealed that based on America’s votes, Ellona would be the first act to leave the competition during the elimination night.

“When Mario asked me how I was feeling I didn’t know what to say because I was so shocked and speechless. It is what it is and it happened. Every moment that I stepped on stage I loved each and every performance because I gave it my all. I poured out my heart and soul for America,” said Ellona.

She said she sang her heart out without having to worry about the votes or what people would think. “This show has only been like a stepping stone for me and it has only been like a test to see if I really wanted this, and I really do. To all my supporters out there, thank you guys so much for keeping me out here and I am just so grateful to work with Demi. This is not a goodbye this is a see you later.”

The acts making through to the next round included: Simon Cowell’s groups “Alex & Sierra” and “Restless Road”. Kelly Rowland’s Over 25 artist Jeff Gutt and Paulina Rubio’s male artist Carlito Olivero. This left Rion Paige, another contestant and member of Demi Lovato’s girls contestants eliminated from the show.

In a sing off with Carlito, Rion was outnumbered after Paulina, Kelly and an almost undecided Simon voted to send her home.

“I respect America and the judges decision because obviously this is a singing game show and I’ve really just every week, came out and gave it my all. I could never ask for anything else. I have had so much love and support around me. Demi and Paulina and just everybody have been so welcoming and humbling. It just makes me realise that now I have my name out there and now I can go and tackle my dream even more. I am thirteen so I think it is really neat, almost making it to the semi finals. I have grown up and matured, learning how to deal with pressure on a national television stage,” Rion told FOX cameras.

Tonight on FOX Network the final four will take to the X Factor USA stage for the final time before the finale. The following night, one act will be sent home while the remaining contestants await the finale.