This is the teenager who has become the only Irish singer to make it through to the X Factor live stages.
And Chris Leonard has already been tipped to become the new Niall Horan by TV bosses – after being picked to join the ‘new One Direction’.
He was picked by Simon Cowell – along with seven other solo artists – and put into a new boyband in this years X Factor after inital disappointment.
Next Big thing: Chris with his old band Level 5 | VIPIRELAND.COM
Now sources have revealed that the group have been picked by Louis Walsh at his judges houses to go to the live shows.
Insiders said that Chris stole the show when they performed to Louis and helper Tulisa – and is seen as a young Ronan Keating.
“Chris has the potential, not only to be the front man of a new boyband, but to enjoy a big solo career,” a source told the Sun. “He really is the one to watch on X Factor this year.”
Belief: The X Factor judges think new band will be huge | ITV
The 18-year-old was formally a member of Dublin boyband 5th Base – and made it to X Factor’s boot camp last year before they were kicked out.
But after his hopes were dashed he returned this year as a solo artist. However he impressed the judges so much they decided to put him into what could be Simon Cowell’s new big boyband.
Gleeful Simon hailed the band in Wembley Arena when he put them together and said they were “one of the best bands they’ve ever had on the show.”
Believer: Simon thinks Chris could be huge like Ronan Keating | VIPIRELAND.COM
Insiders revealed that he has already told people they are the new One Direction he has been searching for.
