Not even an emergency could stop 4th Impact from advancing to the top seven in X Factor UK, as one of the all-Filipina girl group collapsed before the performance.
In a report from British news site Mirror Online, Celena fainted moments before the group took to the stage. She, though, was able to hold her own and perform Beyonce’s “Work It Out” to give fans a show.
A spokesperson for X Factor shed light on what transpired backstage, as he said, “(Celena) was checked by a medic who said she was okay to perform.”
Producers rushed to give Celena a chair on stage as the judges shortened their comments after the performance.
“Under the circumstances, that was the most incredible performance we have ever seen,” said Simon Cowell. “I was there as this was all happening backstage so I know what you’ve been through. I hope you’re okay, sweetheart.”
Despite Celena’s condition, 4th Impact still was able to survive the double elimination night on Sunday (Monday Manila time) and advanced to the top seven. They joined Anton Stephans, Reggie and Bollie, Che Chesterman, Mason Noise, Louisa Johnson, and Lauren Murray. All seven earned tickets to perform on the X Factor UK live tour next year from February to March.
Monica Michael from the Girls Category and Max Stone from Over 25 Category have been booted from the competition.
4th Impact mentor Cheryl Fernandez-Versini praised the group for their fortitude, saying, “I’m so proud of all of you for getting up in those circumstances. You had the chance to use the rehearsal tapes but you said no. We suffer things like this. There are things you have to just do and you guys did that tonight without the professional experience.”
Celena has already assured fans of her condition, as she tweeted through the group’s Twitter account @4thImpactMusic saying, “1st of all I want to thank God for giving me the strength to perform last night. Thank you all for praying for me! Feeling better now – Cel”