X Factor: Celebrity kicked off tonight with the first episode of the brand new series as Simon Cowell, Nicole Scherzinger and Louis Walsh met the first half of celebrity contestants. Among them was Brendan Cole, who is part of the duo Cole and Edwards with long-time friend Jeremy Edwards. Before their performance, the former Strictly Come Dancing professional wasted no time in making a jibe about his old employer.
Before Cole and Edwards took to the stage to perform, ITV viewers were treated to a pre-recorded clip.
In it, the two men explained how they met, the work they are best known for and how they became a duo.
And it wasn’t long before Brendan brought up the fact he had been sacked from the nation’s favourite dance competition.
Up until last year, the Kiwi had been on Strictly Come Dancing since the show’s inauguration.
READ MORE: The X Factor Celebrity line-up: Who are the contestants?
When he got up on stage in from of Simon, Louis, Nicole and the industry professionals, he was instantly recognised.
“I know you from somewhere, aren’t you from Strictly Come Dancing?” Louise exclaimed.
After telling him he was right, Louis turned his attention to Jeremy and asked: “What show are you on?”
The actor proceeded to brag: “Millie Inbetween, the number one kids show in the country!”
The conversation then turned back to Brendan and Strictly.
“I was on the first 15 seasons of the show and won the very first series,” he commented.
“It was the biggest show wasn’t it?” Louis replied and Brendan stated: “I want to be on the next biggest show. This will now be the next biggest show now we’re on it!”
After their performance failed to impress the room, Louis was quick to defend the gentlemen.
“Simon’s first group was Robson and Jerome, they sold millions of records and they were not great singers!” He reminded everyone.
“Stick with that thought Louis!” Brendan hit back before suggest they “got their coats” and left.
“Can I say something?” Simon interjected. “The most important thing is who does the public was to see through?”
“You have an audience who have watched you every week Brendan, 16 million people,” the music mogul remarked.
As for whether or not they make it to the live show, viewers will have to tune in next week.
X Factor: Celebrity returns next Saturday at 8:35pm on ITV.
