Cheryl praises The Greatest Dancer over 'competitive' X Factor

The singer is a Dance Captain on the new BBC show
Top trio: Oti Mabuse, Matthew Morrison and Cheryl
BBC/Syco/Thames/Tom Dymond
Natasha Sporn28 December 2018

Cheryl has hinted that it is easier to get on with her co-stars on The Greatest Dancer over the X Factor as it is less 'competitive'.

The singer is one of three Dance Captains on the brand new BBC talent show, sitting alongside Glee star Matthew Morrison and Strictly Come Dancing professional Oti Mabuse, who will all mentor three acts each.

Cheryl said being a part of The Greatest Dancer was all about “giving” to the act instead of competing against Morrison and Mabuse, as she did on X Factor as a judge.

“There was definitely more of a competitive nature among the judges probably because Simon was sat there!” she said.

Dance Captain: Cheryl has a starring role in the new BBC competition
BBC/Syco/Thames/David Ellis

“Really, it did feel more competitive with The X Factor because at the end somebody was winning a massive record contract and you felt responsible for their career.

“With this show, you’re helping them to win £50,000 - which is awesome - and to perform on Strictly so you’re just giving, giving and giving. You’re not trying to create a career. Hopefully a platform but not a career.”

Cheryl, 35, appeared on the ITV show twice – from 2008 until 2010 and then again for two series in 2014 and 2015.

During her formative years on the show she won twice with Alexandra Burke and Joe McElderry.

The X Factor: Cheryl with Simon Cowell in 2014 
ITV/PA

But the winner of The Greatest Dancer wins £50,000 and a chance to perform on Strictly in 2019.

In a change from usual talent competitions, the power is in the hands of the audience. Each act goes on stage to perform from behind a screen. If they attract 75 per cent of the audience votes, the screen will open and they will be on stage in front of everybody.

In the next rounds, Cheryl, Mabuse and Morrison will have to pick three acts each to mentor in the hope of them being crowned the Greatest Dancer.

TV shows to watch in 2019

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The Greatest Dancer starts Saturday January 5 on BBC One.

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