Controversial contestant Christopher Maloney has left The X Factor ahead of tomorrow's final showdown.

James Arthur and Jahmene Douglas - both mentored by judge Nicole Scherzinger - have made it through and will battle it out in the show's grand final at Manchester Central Arena tomorrow (December 9.)

After performing with mentor Gary Barlow, Maloney received the least number of public votes, resulting in his departure from the show at the final hurdle.

Earlier in the show he performed 'What A Feeling' before taking to the stage to perform Take That hit 'Rule The World' alongside Barlow.

Maloney has divided audiences on this year's show - beating off some of the most-loved singers to make it through to the final five acts of the competition, with reports of his "fake" behaviour and "diva-ish" ways hitting headlines.

Tonight, his time on The X Factor came to end, and the wannabe singer bowed out graciously with a smile on his face.

Left to battle it out in tomorrow's live grand finale are friends and fellow category acts Douglas and Arthur.

The two wowed with their solo performances tonight, with Jahmene impressing with an upbeat rendition of 'Move On Up' before taking to the stage with Scherzinger to sing 'The Greatest Love Of All.' There was a little drama on stage after Douglas' microphone failed and the pair had to share the same one.

Arthur's two performances were equally as exciting. He performed 'Feeling Good' before duetting with Scherzinger on 'Make You Feel My Love.'

Also in spectacular X Factor style, a host of big name stars performed throughout the show, including Rita Ora, Kelly Clarkson and Kylie Minogue.