Host Steve Jones revealed that after the votes were cast, Amaro had bested runner-up Josh Krajcik and second runner-up Chris Rene. Amaro, 19, who was mentored by Judge Simon Cowell, emerged as America’s choice and capped her coronation on the finale by singing Listen.
 
After an epic battle for America’s vote, Amaro is the first finalist to win the coveted The X Factor title, a $5 million recording contract with Sony Music and an iconic Pepsi commercial.
 
The finale on 22 December was filled with excitement as a plethora of special guest artists performed throughout the broadcast, including Justin Bieber, Stevie Wonder, Drew, Leona Lewis, Pitbull, Ne-Yo, Marcus Canty, 50 Cent and Astro. In addition, Derek Fisher, Steve Blake and Matt Barnes of the Los Angeles Lakers appeared on the show and The X Factor’s Top 12 finalists reunited for a special performance.

Simon Cowell, Melanie Amaro, Nicole Scherzinger, Steve Jones and Josh Krajcik (from left to right)

Online auditions for Season Two of The X Factor were open until 31 December 2011. More audition information will be announced by FremantleMedia North America shortly.
 
The X Factor is produced by FremantleMedia North America and Syco Television. Cecile Frot-Coutaz, Richard Holloway and Andrew Llinares serve as executive producers for FremantleMedia North America. Rob Wade and Siobhan Greene are executive producers for Syco Television.