X Factor star Joe McElderry ‘thrilled’ with national panto award

Joe McElderry has said he was thrilled to be named the “best magical being” at the UK Pantomime Awards 2026.

The South Shields singer, who won X Factor in 2009, was recognised for his role as the Spirit of the Ring in Aladdin at Newcastle Theatre Royal.

“Best magical being, I think that’s the nicest thing I’ve ever been called in this industry,” McElderry joked.

He said pantomime was so important for introducing the younger generations to theatre and performance, adding: “We just feel lucky that we get to do it as a job.”