Former X Factor finalist Rachel Hylton is now wanted by police after failing to appear in court on drug charges.
The 42-year-old singer, who competed in the fifth series of the popular talent show in 2008, was due to attend Crawley Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, October 29. However, she did not show up for her scheduled appearance.
A warrant has been issued for Hylton’s arrest without bail.
The former contestant, who once impressed judges with her rendition of Amy Winehouse’s You Know I’m No Good, is now facing legal troubles over alleged possession of cannabis resin.
Hylton was charged with possessing cannabis resin, a Class B drug, at Crawley Police Station on October 13.
Prosecutor Jeremy King told the court: “She signed the charge sheet to appear today and nothing has been heard.”
Rachel Hylton pictured in 2008
PA
“The mother-of-five, who previously lived in a Croydon B&B but now resides in Southgate, Crawley, provided no explanation for her absence.
The magistrates subsequently issued a warrant for Hylton’s arrest without bail.
Hylton’s X Factor journey began in 2008 when she auditioned for the fifth series of the show.
She competed in the Over 25s category, mentored by Dannii Minogue. Throughout the competition, Hylton performed songs including Feeling Good and Rule The World.
The singer made it to the final stages of the series, impressing judges and audiences alike.
However, her run came to an end in week seven of the live shows when she lost out in the sing-off to JLS.
At the time, Simon Cowell had praised Hylton, saying: “Everything about this girl blew me away.”
Hylton’s X Factor appearance initially sparked hope for a successful music career.
Cowell had declared: “There are not enough people in this country who are given second chances – and I want to give this girl a second chance.”
However, 15 years on from her television debut, Hylton’s circumstances have changed dramatically.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Rachel Hylton made it to the X Factor live finals
ITV
The former contestant, who once spoke of her desire to become a “respected well-known artist” and complete her Performing Arts degree, is now facing legal troubles.
With a warrant out for her arrest and no explanation provided for her absence from court, Hylton’s current situation stands in stark contrast to her aspirations during her X Factor days.