The good, the bad and the very cute... Young fan meets Simon Cowell as hopefuls roll up for X Factor

Known for his acid tongue, the straight-talking judge is a force to be reckoned with.

But one tiny fan wasn’t afraid to approach the show’s fierce supremo.

Tiny fan: Simon Cowell meets a member of a hopeful's family

This little girl bravely leaned over the panels’ desk as she enjoyed a chat with the tough-talking music boss.

The youngster met Cowell at auditions for the latest X Factor show, when her relative Marlon McKenzie performed.

Dreaming of stardom: Hopefuls Marlon McKenzie and Aimee Hargreaves meet the judges

McKenzie is just one of thousands of wannabe stars who hopes the show will launch their musical careers.

In the past watching the cringe-worthy acts in the early stages has been just as entertaining as the more competent performers.

The hopefuls: John May and Rita Zafiriou strut their stuff to get to the next round

This year promises to be no different as a selection of the good, the bad and the ugly put themselves up in front of the judges.

Cheryl Cole joins Louis Walsh, Simon Cowell and Dannii Minogue on the panel this year after the departure of Sharon Osbourne who left over a pay dispute.

Familiar face: Nikk Major has met Simon Cowell before when he auditioned for Popstars:The Rivals. He ended up joining runner-up band Phixx, who had a top 10 hit in 2003

Exultation: Boy band JLS seem pleased with their performance

Dreamtime duo Nathan and Elizabeth sing their hearts out

The judges have toured the country in the hope of uncovering the next Leona Lewis.

The show which starts on Saturday is bound to be full of a surprises and a few familiar faces are also rumoured to pop up again.

Could these be the next Girls Aloud?: Girl band Chaos try their luck

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