X Factor star unrecognisable after quitting fame to run fitness retreats
AN X Factor star looks unrecognisable after quitting fame to run fitness retreats.
Chico Slimani has ditched his singing career in favour the more spiritual career path – 18 years after starring on The X Factor.
The 52-year-old took to Instagram to reveal his company Block Fit’s first retreat in Morocco.
In a video Chico looked very different compared to his time as a pop star, which saw him land a UK number single with It’s Chico Time.
Wearing a colourful bandana as he showed off his surroundings, he said: “Well, what can I say?
“Just waiting for the second bunch. I can’t even contain my excitement.
“So sorry for the people who couldn’t make it but we have got another one on 29th September. I’m speechless, it really is breathtaking.”
Chico auditioned for The X Factor in 2005 and made it to the live shows, being mentored by Sharon Osbourne.
Despite his gimmicky act he managed to win over Simon Cowell and the public, getting all the way to the quarter-finals.
Chico previously spoke to The Sun about taking a huge financial risk on the release of his third single.
He said: “I spent quarter of a million of my own money on my third single Curvy Cola Bottle Body Baby — it was all about size zero in the fashion industry.
“It didn’t get any air play and flopped. No one wanted to take Chico seriously. I had just £3.70 left in my pocket — with a family, a mortgage and all my credit cards maxed out.
“I went out for milk and bread, and when I walked past a beggar I just decided to give him it all.”