The X Factor 2018 finalist Anthony Russell has announced he is pulling out of the show’s live tour due to “personal reasons”.
Earlier this month, the top eight acts from the latest series of the ITV talent contest – including winner Dalton Andre Harris – began travelling the country to perform a string of arena shows.
The tour, hosted by X Factor digital presenter Becca Dudley, passed its halfway stage earlier this week.
However, Anthony is no longer on the bill after revealing today that he’s had to withdraw from the remaining dates.
The 28-year-old announced the news in a statement on his Instagram page ahead of tonight’s show in Aberdeen.
Sadly, this means he will miss Friday’s gig in his home city of Liverpool.
“Due to personal circumstances I’ve had to withdraw from the tour. I’m heartbroken to miss the final shows,” he wrote.
“It has been an honour to sing to you all and a dream come true.
“It was not a decision made lightly, but unfortunately private circumstances out of my control have meant it’s not currently possible for me to continue forward with further dates.
“I’m so so sorry to anyone who was looking forward to seeing me. I love and appreciate you all so much and it’s killing me to think anyone is going to be let down.”
A spokesperson for the X Factor Tour also confirmed the development in a statement to the Liverpool Echo.
“Anthony has had to leave the tour for personal reasons,” the rep commented.
“We would appreciate people respecting his privacy and wish him well for the future.”
Anthony was mentored on last year’s X Factor by Louis Tomlinson, whom he’d become close pals with during his struggles.
He eventually finished the competition in third place, behind Dalton and Scarlett Lee.
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