The X Factor UK is known for discovering raw, unexpected talent—but in 2018, Season 15, Episode 4, the show introduced viewers to a singer who radiated star quality the moment she stepped onto the stage: Athena Manoukian.
At just 24 years old, Athena arrived with confidence, elegance, and the energy of someone who knew she was born to perform. Dressed stylishly and carrying herself with poise, she instantly caught the attention of both the judges and the audience even before singing a single note.
When the music started, Athena launched into a stunning cover of Beyoncé’s “Crazy in Love”—a bold choice for any contestant. But instead of shying away from the challenge, she completely owned it. Her performance was not a simple imitation; Athena infused the song with her own unique vocal runs, dynamic tone, and a stage presence that felt polished and professional.
The judges’ reactions said it all:
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Simon Cowell leaned in almost immediately, clearly impressed with both her vocals and confidence. He praised her ambition and the fact that she carried herself like an established star.
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Robbie Williams highlighted how she brought fire and passion to the stage, calling her performance a standout of the night.
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Louis Tomlinson noted her charisma and the way she had the audience’s attention from the first second.
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Ayda Field summed it up by saying Athena had “star power written all over her.”
The crowd, too, was swept up in the performance—cheering and clapping along as Athena turned the audition into what felt like a concert. By the end, she received enthusiastic yeses across the panel, advancing to the next stage of the competition.
What made Athena’s audition so memorable was not just her strong voice, but the total package: the confidence, the artistry, and the undeniable ability to connect with an audience. It wasn’t just about singing—it was about creating a moment, and Athena delivered exactly that.
Though her journey on The X Factor UK 2018 may not have ended with the crown, her audition remains a fan favorite and a shining example of what it means to bring both talent and presence to one of the world’s biggest talent stages.
Click to Watch Athena Manoukian’s unforgettable audition and see why the judges believed she had everything it takes to be a star.
